CHARLESTON, WV - The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra (WVSO) announces the winner of the 2024 Diversity in Arts Award, The Norman Jordan African American Arts & Heritage Academy (NJAAAHA).

 

The WVSO’s Diversity in Arts Award recognizes significant contributions of an individual or organization in West Virginia that have influenced and/or increased diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the Arts. The awardee serves as a role model and champion as they lend support, resources or involvement that foster inclusion and belonging for everyone. 

 

The first of its kind in the state, the Diversity in Arts Award was created during the 2023-2024 season as the WVSO progressed its commitment to reduce and eliminate barriers to music. More on the WVSO’s creation of the award can be located on the website: https://wvsymphony.org/diversity-in-the-arts-award-our-why

 

“This has been a long and worthy effort by the WVSO and its Board of Directors as our own efforts to eliminate barriers to music have been central to our core values,” announced Joe Tackett, WVSO President. “We are thrilled to announce The Norman Jordan African American Arts & Heritage Academy as the winner of this prestigious award. Uplifting the voice of a similarly impactful organization is crucial as we collectively shape West Virginia’s inclusive Arts community.”

 

Established in the 1980s, The Norman Jordan African American Arts & Heritage Academy is a weeklong summer arts experience that offers teenagers between the ages of 12-18 concentrated study in the artistic discipline of their choice.  Students choose one of the following artistic genres:  vocal music, instrumental music (strings, horns, & percussion including steel drums), theater, visual arts, creative writing (including hip-hop and basic song writing), dance, and arts technology.  In addition, students learn by exposure to the historical, social, and cultural heritage associated with their chosen art forms via workshops, guest artists, and field trips. This approach creates a holistic balance to their study.

 

“When our organization learned of the possibility of working with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra,” said Dr. Brucella Jordan, NJAAAHA Executive Director, “we knew that such a connection would enhance our instrumental music discipline by increasing the number of music students and by giving our students more exposure to a different type of music.  We are ecstatic to be the recipients of the award.”

 

This year’s academy will take place July 8-13 on the campus of West Virginia State University in Institute, WV. The WVSO is thrilled to support the students of the camp with exclusive opportunities including scholarship aid and mentoring musicians participating in the academy. The academy ends with a showcase open to the public beginning at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 13 at Skeen Theatre on West Virginia State University’s campus.

  

The West Virginia Symphony Orchestra is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical and pops concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently in its 86th season, the WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.