The program is designed to support mentoring relationships at multiple levels:
Level 1 mentorship is grounded in the pairing of "Cultural Leaders," -- From the Top musicians ages 8-18 who perform on the From the Top Radio Show -- with YA Teaching Artists. The YA Artists mentor the Cultural Leaders in developing interactive teaching and presentation skills that are age and developmentally appropriate.
Level 2 mentoring occurs as the two artists present together in a performance and discussion with students in the style of the FtT Radio Show.
Level 3 mentorship is the YA Artist(s) who conducts the MYORS with a class or a smaller group of students. These students will work together under the mentorship of the YA Artist to develop the script and radio program design; identify and select young artists from the school, district or community to be featured; and present their own radio show as a culminating event.
Level 4 is the mentorship of students who attend the culminating event and see the talented young artists showcased in the MYORS production.
These progressive levels of mentoring are intended to generate an element of surprise and admiration for the extraordinary accomplishments of the artists of all ages. Additionally, the levels instill a motivation and understanding that rigorous work and commitment to music produces a discernable level of quality. This lesson is also transferable to other aspects of life.
