Third Culture Ensemble

Music is a universal language that knows no boundaries with the power to uplift and bring joy. Third Culture Ensemble is committed to bringing music to places where it is needed most to individuals without access to it. We want to be out in diverse neighborhoods and in the midst of the hustle and bustle, because we want music to be at the heart of these communities. Live music of the highest quality can connect and move us all, regardless of whoever we are and wherever we are in our walks of life.

With the COVID-19 pandemic bringing to a standstill many things that once enriched our lives, Third Culture Ensemble is working to create ways to bring meaningful and inspiring chamber concerts to our communities. The joy and connection that live music brings became much more apparent through its absence during this time, and we want to bring hope back to our neighborhoods.

1. TCE will bring together professional musicians and young artists based in Cleveland and Akron to work towards the goal of bringing joy, healing, and inspiration to our communities. 

2. Working with the staff of CityMission Laura's Home for Women and Children, Access Shelter, Haven of Rest, and Cuyahoga County Juvenile Detention Center, and Akron Art Museum, TCE musicians will bring free socially distanced performances and art therapy sessions to diverse neighborhoods within Cuyahoga and Summit counties.

We want to prioritize the safety of all who are involved while presenting the highest quality of performances and meaningful experiences. During this critical time, we will maintain ongoing communication with the staff of organizations and communities we are serving to ensure that all COVID-19 related safety protocols are observed. 

The funding through this IOBY campaign will help compensate our musicians and cover a portion of the administrative and supply expenses. Once the funding is secured, we will 1) work with social organizations, musicians, and students to set up the program of music; coordinate dates of events; and establish social distance protocols; 2) share the news of these events with residents and neighbors; 3) (Safely) rehearse with musicians and bring free concerts to our neighborhoods!

Since we first started, we have seen faces light up during the concerts at places like the City Mission transition home for women and children. Our performances have brought groups of people together who would otherwise never be sitting face-to-face in the same space, enjoying the beauty of music together. However fleeting the musical moments we create may be, what lasts beyond the notes are the conversations sparked and the relationships formed through our shared experience. Through meaningful exchanges between the performers and the audience, music becomes a cultural bridge that brings people together. It reaffirms our shared humanity.

Music has the power to uplift, heal, build, enrich and unite communities. During this challenging time, we want to bring together different sectors of the Northeast Ohio communities. Embodying a collaborative and creative spirit, Third Culture Ensemble endeavors to find creative ways to maintain a sense of normalcy and continuity, provide relief for and support our local musicians, and mentor young artists.