A Program of Excellence
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's Talent Development Program (TDP) identifies and trains highly dedicated student musicians with exceptional potential and passion for classical music – particularly those with obstacles on their path to study. Our mission is to expand opportunities for and to increase the presence of Atlanta-area students among music performance majors in conservatories.
Program History
In 1994, a small group of dedicated volunteers, led by Mrs. Azira G. Hill, established the Black Talent Development Program in recognition of significant roadblocks that limit access to the orchestral arts for many talented musicians. As one of the first initiatives of its kind, TDP focused on identifying, mentoring, and developing Black middle and high school students in the Atlanta Public School system who showed exceptional musical talent and a passion for classical music but faced hurdles developing their talents.
What started with 10 students in 1994, expanded in 2003 to include 25 Black and Latino students across the Atlanta metro area. Today, under the stewardship of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, TDP continues its historic mission to drive opportunities for student musicians who have traditionally faced barriers to elite orchestral arts training. During the TDP’s three-decade existence, we have seen that these barriers have caused outstanding young musicians to be left behind. As the ASO continues TDP’s mission rooted in opportunity and access, we seek to recruit and encourage applications from students who have demonstrated exceptional talent, as well as resilience and determination in overcoming obstacles in their path towards professional musicianship.
What does the TDP provide?
The Talent Development Program is a training program requiring serious commitment for both students and families. TDP students work extremely hard and receive the following annually:
TDP Impact Report
The Talent Development Program prepares gifted student musicians for careers in classical music. Read highlights from the program's 2023/24 season and catch up with TDP alumni.
View TDP Impact Report
Our mission is to expand opportunities for and to increase the presence of Atlanta-area students among music performance majors in conservatories.
Applications will be accepted through Sunday, September 14, 2025.
Your support helps one of the longest-running, year-round musical education diversity programs in America.
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program is proud to introduce our current students.
Meet the instructors of the Talent Development Program.
Representatives from Pathway Programs across the country recently gathered in Atlanta for the third Building Bridges Symposium, presented by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and Equity Arc. The team from Equity Arc presented findings from the 2023 National Collective Pathways Census Report.
Read Report
To learn more, visit equityarc.org.
Thanks to our Talent Development Program Sponsors
A Friend of the Symphony
