July 10, 2017
CIM Student Wins Inaugural Diversity-Focused Fellowship
Tuba player Jason Tanksley (MM '16, Sugiyama), currently pursuing an Artist Diploma from the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM), has won a two-year fellowship with the Minnesota Orchestra. Tanksley is one of two performers selected as the first-ever Rosemary and David Good Fellows.
This fellowship supports the career development of outstanding young musicians of African American, Latino and Native American descent as they embark on professional orchestral careers, and will provide Tanksley with mentorship, coaching and professional performing experience. Tanksley was one of eight musicians chosen to audition for the fellowship.
Tanksley says: “I am excited to have the opportunity to work with the musicians of the Minnesota Orchestra. Having their wisdom and knowledge shape the next part of my career is a dream come true.”
Over the course of the fellowship, Tanksley will observe and participate in Minnesota Orchestra rehearsals, perform within the orchestra at selected concerts, study with orchestra musicians and prepare for professional auditions. In addition, he will also work with students on a variety of music education initiatives.