Aspen, Colorado is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and world-renowned cultural events. Among the most prestigious of these events are the Aspen Music School and Aspen Music Festival Conducting Academy, which attract the world’s most talented young musicians and conductors to study and perform in the spectacular mountain setting. However, Aspen is also home to an important program that seeks to address one of the most pressing issues of our time: the role of Latinos in American society.
The Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program was launched in 2015 with the aim of promoting greater understanding of the contributions and challenges of Latinos in the United States. Through research, policy analysis, and public events, the program seeks to elevate the voices and perspectives of Latinos in discussions of topics ranging from education to politics to culture.
While the Aspen Music School and Festival may seem unrelated to the Latinos & Society Program at first glance, there is a deeper connection between these institutions. Both are committed to fostering excellence and promoting diversity in their respective fields. The Music School and Festival have a long tradition of showcasing a wide range of musical styles and cultures, from classical to jazz to world music. Similarly, the Latinos & Society Program seeks to highlight the diverse experiences and perspectives of Latinos in the United States, recognizing that there is no single “Latino” identity or culture.
The Aspen Music Festival Conducting Academy is a particularly apt example of this commitment to diversity and excellence. The program has a strong track record of attracting a diverse group of young conductors from around the world, including many from underrepresented backgrounds. In recent years, the Conducting Academy has also made a conscious effort to include more works by composers of color and women composers in its repertoire, recognizing the importance of promoting diversity not only among its students but also in the music that is performed.
The Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program similarly recognizes the importance of diversity and representation in all aspects of American society. As the program’s director, Abigail Golden-Vazquez, has noted, “The Latino community is not a monolith, and we need to be inclusive of all voices in order to truly understand the diversity and complexity of this community.” By promoting greater understanding and inclusion of Latinos in American society, the program seeks to create a more just and equitable future for all.
In conclusion, while the Aspen Music School, Aspen Music Festival Conducting Academy, and Aspen Institute Latinos & Society Program may seem disparate at first glance, they are united by a common commitment to excellence, diversity, and inclusivity. Whether through music or policy analysis, these institutions are working to create a more vibrant and just society for all.