THE LEADERSHIP INITIATIVE
Two concerts. Big impact. National Recognition.
Congratulations to Andrew Xue on his recent college acceptances to UC Berkeley, Cornell, among other exceptional universitites!
Andrew Xue ︳Violin, Leadership Initiative & Junior Program President
If you’re a classical musician who juggles practice, lessons, performance, and personal commitments, the VMA’s one-of-a-kind, time-saving, straightforward Leadership Initiative fits seamlessly into any high schooler’s schedule.
Here’s your chance to share your talent, make a lasting difference in your community, boost your resume, and make your mark as a leader. Let’s do this!
#1: Practice
Performing a piece of classical literature requires consistent practicing. At the very least, we expect Elementary and Middle School students to practice at least 10-30 minutes per day, while High School students are expected to practice at least 30-60 minutes per day.
#2: Private Lessons
Students must be taking private lessons with teachers who guide and encourage their students to perform in community outreach settings. Private teachers submit two simple concert completion reports per student and can even earn student referral fees.
If you’re a music educator and want to learn more about partnering with the VMA, check out The Circle.
Cholong Park, Pianist
VMA Circle Educator Partner
#3: Choose Your Track
Leadership Workshops: High Schoolers can attend 5 one-hour virtual workshops in one semester (Silver Track) or 10 over two semesters (Gold Track). No workshops are required for Bronze Track.
Community Engagement: Perform 2 outreach concerts per year; required for all tracks.
Timeline: Complete all requirements within one year.
Eligibility: United States citizenship / Green Card status only required for President’s Volunteer Service Award
VMA National Service Award: Gold, Silver, or Bronze level awarded upon successful completion of corresponding leadership track. *This award exceeds the standards of excellence, civic engagement, and volunteer achievement as the President’s Volunteer Service Award currently suspended by the federal government.
Gold
10 workshops 2 concerts
Silver
5 workshops 2 concerts
Bronze
No workshops 2 concerts
Beyond Awards: Elevating the Experience
Where Service Isn’t the End — It’s the Beginning
For many students, volunteer service is just a means to an end — a way to earn hours or check a box.
VMA goes further. We transform service into leadership, artistry, and compassion that last a lifetime.
Guided by professional musicians and educators, VMA students learn to take ownership of their outreach — not just participate in it. They perform in the community, lead school clubs, collaborate across states, and serve on a national board that mirrors real-world governance and accountability.
VMA helps students build résumés with depth and meaning — and character to match.
Summary & Registration
High School Tracks of Participation
1. Bronze Track: $250
Outreach Requirement: Complete 2 outreach concerts within one year.
Workshops: None required.
Recognition:
Eligible for the VMA National Service Award (with documented teacher’s Concert Completion Reports)
VMA Certificate of completion
High School students earn 100 hrs of community service
2. Silver Track: $1,250
Outreach Requirement: Complete 2 outreach concerts within one year.
Workshops: Attend 5 virtual one-hour workshops (offered on Sundays, 2-3 PM) during one semester (Fall or Spring).
Recognition:
Eligible for the VMA National Service Award (with documented teacher’s Concert Completion Reports).
VMA Certificate of completion
High School students earn 175 hrs of community service
3. Gold Track: $2,500
Outreach Requirement: Complete 2 outreach concerts within one year.
Workshops: Attend 10 virtual one-hour workshops (5 workshops per semester over two semesters).
Recognition:
Eligible for the VMA National Service Award (with documented teacher’s Concert Completion Reports).
VMA Certificate of completion
High School students earn 250 hrs of community service
Workshop Details
Frequency: Workshops are held approximately once a month on Sundays from 2-3 PM.
Content: Sessions include guest speakers, leadership training, and discussions about life as a professional musician.
Flexibility: Occasional absences are permitted with prior notice to the facilitator.
No Exams: Workshops are discussion-based with no additional take-home work.
Outreach Concert Requirements
Purpose: Bring music to underserved communities such as senior centers, shelters, and assisted living residences.
Collaboration: Perform solo or with friends to share the joy of music.
Certification: Your private teacher must verify the completion of your concerts and consistent practice.
Program Benefits
Leadership Development: Gain confidence, communication skills, and adaptability through outreach and workshops.
Community Impact: Share your music to inspire hope and joy in others.
Prestigious Recognition: Receive awards and certifications that boost your college applications and resume.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, mentors, and professional musicians.
How to Get Started
Choose Your Track: Select the Bronze, Silver, or Gold track based on your availability and goals.
Register: Sign up online or contact us for guidance.
Plan Your Outreach: Work with your teacher, friends, or the Boston chapter to organize your concerts.
Attend Workshops: Join virtual sessions to learn, grow, and connect with others.