Kids on Stage

For 2021, The New York Pops adapted its Kids on Stage program to align with the current climate of remote learning. Kids on the Virtual Stage is a FREE comprehensive program that introduced middle school students to the professional virtual performance process from preparing an audition video to participating in the production of a professional video performance.

A total of 81 students applied, and 66 students were invited to submit audition videos. Our adjudication panel, consisting of orchestra musicians and led by KOVS Director Brian Worsdale, then selected our 22 Fellows. As we wanted to give as many students as possible access to meaningful music experiences, we decided to create an Affiliate Residency for an additional 14 students.

The 36 total participants attended five virtual rehearsals in the spring which included coachings with our musicians and Teaching Artists, Q&A sessions with industry professionals, as well as instruction on how to use recording software and successfully record videos of themselves for the final video projects.

Click here to see the 2021 Kids on the Virtual Stage videos!

Stay tuned for information about our 2022 Kids on Stage program.  

Quotes from 2021 participants

“I am so moved by your programming and the genuine care and enthusiasm of all the musicians and staff involved. As a fellow educator, I know how difficult this last year has been. You have done an outstanding job providing opportunities and enrichment for these youngsters.” – Sara Nichols, parent of tuba student Lily Brown

“Thank you so much for a wonderful opportunity this year! I was able to learn so much and grow as a musician… Even though it was virtual this year, the experience was still the best possible it could be and thank you so much for making it so special!” - Anjali LeDoux, flute student

Kids on Stage is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council.