# Nashville Symphony Accelerando

The Nashville Symphony's free multi-year training program for young orchestral musicians from underrepresented communities: weekly lessons with Symphony musicians, master classes, and college prep, all at no charge.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Nashville Symphony |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–10 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Nashville, TN |
| Apply | https://www.nashvillesymphony.org/education/accelerando/how-to-apply/ |

## About this program

# Nashville Symphony Accelerando

Accelerando is the Nashville Symphony's intensive music education initiative, designed to prepare gifted young musicians from communities underrepresented in American orchestras for collegiate music study and professional careers. Students admitted by audition join a multi-year, year-round course of study built around one-on-one instruction from Nashville Symphony musicians and highly qualified local teachers, with the orchestra covering the cost of services.

## What You'll Do

- Take year-round lessons with a Nashville Symphony musician or highly qualified local instructor
- Study music theory and history through instruction at Vanderbilt's Blair School of Music
- Perform in solo recitals and chamber music, and join master classes with professional guest artists
- Receive funding for summer workshops, camps, lessons, and classes, plus complimentary Nashville Symphony concert tickets for you and your family
- Get college and career counseling, including help with music school applications

## Who Should Apply

Applications are open to orchestral instrumentalists in grades 5-10 (piano, saxophone, guitar, and voice are not accepted). Auditions are accepted year-round: submit an application, a teacher recommendation, and a 5-10 minute audition video; applications for the 2026/27 cohort were considered through July 1, 2026.

## Outcomes

Accelerando students receive conservatory-style preparation while still in school, sustained mentorship from professional orchestral musicians, and concrete support - financial and logistical - when applying to collegiate music programs. All services are provided free of charge to admitted families.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Nashville Symphony Accelerando cost?

Nashville Symphony Accelerando is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for Nashville Symphony Accelerando?

Nashville Symphony Accelerando is open to students in grades 6–10 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Nashville Symphony Accelerando online or in person?

Nashville Symphony Accelerando is an in-person program based in Nashville, TN.

### How do I apply to Nashville Symphony Accelerando?

Apply directly through Nashville Symphony's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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