The Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic has hired an Education and Events Coordinator, a new position created to help supplement art education for young students in the Coachella Valley, it was announced Thursday.
The position will be filled by Alyssa Burno, who previously served as a teacher, program manager and as the Orchestra Director and Fine Arts Curriculum Lead with Kansas City public schools. Her work also included leadership in curriculum design and equity-driven initiatives, including teaching DEI-focused workshops and developing social justice-themed curriculum units.
“In creating the position of Education and Events Coordinator, PS Phil is looking to expand, support and financially boost music programs in the Desert Sands, Palm Springs and Coachella Valley school districts, as well as private schools,” Lee Mills, executive director of Palm Springs Friends of Philharmonic, said in a statement. “This last year, the Board of Directors distributed $100,000 in grants to boost programs, purchase instruments and engage and inspire students. Alyssa will be our conduit to music teachers and students alike to have a long-lasting impact on these programs.”
Officials said Burno believes music is not only a tool for artistic means, but also for “building community, fostering empathy and empowering young people to find their voices.”
“I am excited to channel this passion into strengthening the Philharmonic’s educational outreach,” Burno said in a statement. “This year, our initiative will focus on bringing meaningful, hands-on musical experiences to elementary students in grades 3-5, bridging classroom instruction with live concert performances and interactive workshops led by professional musicians.”
Although Friends of the Philharmonic already has a youth education program, officials said they believe with the new position, students can be better equipped with information and access to music programs provided by the organization.
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