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WXOX @ Folklife 2025 ALLIANCE OF BLACK ORCESTRIAL PERCUSSIONISTS Alliance of Black Orchestrial Percussionists 2025 Smithsonian Folklife Festival Youth & the Future of Culture Interviewed by Jordan Gray & Lila Hayden WXOX Next Wave Academy July 5, 2025 “Seeing people like me at ABOP was stunning. Meeting the director and learning that he had similar struggles to me was important for my musical career.”   —G. Harvey, protégé The Alliance of Black Orchestral Percussionists (ABOP) is a nonprofit institution that helps young Black orchestral percussionists nationwide achieve their dreams of becoming professional musicians through a comprehensive mentorship program.  Since its establishment in 2021, ABOP has provided its protégés with one-on-one lessons, master classes, workshops, assistance with equipment, finances, and school and job applications, paving the way to successful symphonic careers.  CEO and co-founder Raynor Carroll believes that the organization’s work is helping symphonic orchestras become more democratic and inclusive spaces. During the Festival, ABOP musicians offered hand-drumming workshops, concerts, and master classes. Visit The Alliance of Black Orchestral Percussionists website Find ABOP on Facebook Follow ABOP on Instagram Check out Smithsonian Folklife Festival on YouTube Return to Folklife 2025 Episode List If you have any questions please e-mail nextwave@artxfm.com

           

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