CIM Recruits Johnnia Stigall to Lead Pre-College and Pathway Programs

In a bold move that strengthens its commitment and reputation as a national leader in pre-college music education, the Cleveland Institute of Music announced today that Johnnia Stigall, an experienced music, arts and community engagement administrator, will manage the Institute’s Young Artist, Musical Pathway Fellowship and Pre-College programs for the Preparatory and Continuing Education division. Stigall comes to CIM from her role managing the National Alliance for Audition Support program for the Sphinx Organization.

Stigall’s primary role will be to guide CIM’s pre-college students and their families through the demands of an advanced classical music education by developing creative new programs and measures to ensure prep students will receive a well-rounded, career-defining musical education, says Jerrod J. Price, executive director of preparatory, enrollment and pathway programs at CIM.

Her appointment is a critical component of Blueprint:100, CIM’s comprehensive strategic plan adopted in 2017, Price says, explaining that CIM’s preparatory division is being restructured to align more closely with the Conservatory.

“Johnnia’s hiring marks a significant shift in the educational approach of CIM’s preparatory division,” said Price. “We are thrilled to have attracted someone with her talent, knowledge and experience. I am eager to work with her to bring a more complete musical pre-college curriculum to our preparatory training.”

Since January 2018, Stigall has served as project manager of the National Alliance for Audition Support (NAAS), a $1.8 million, four-year initiative led by the Sphinx Organization, New World Symphony and the League of American Orchestras to increase diversity in American orchestras by enabling the success of musicians and conductors of color in professional orchestral auditions through mentorship, audition training and financial support. She will relocate to Cleveland from Baltimore.

CIM President and CEO Paul W. Hogle says Stigall’s experience is perfect for what the Institute aims to accomplish in the preparatory division.

“Johnnia is an advocate for young classical musicians from all backgrounds, but her life’s work has been to increase diversity in American conservatories, orchestras and other aspects of the classical music industry,” Hogle said. “She has led several regional and national initiatives to achieve the same types of outcomes we aim to accomplish at CIM. I am delighted that she will join us at a time when restructuring our pre-college offerings is essential to empowering the world’s most talented classical music students to fulfill their dreams and potential.”

Stigall says she was attracted to CIM due in part to the Institute’s efforts and commitment to diversity and creating a welcoming environment for students throughout their studies.

“It’s been very exciting to follow the news about CIM’s success recruiting an increasingly diverse student body over the past few years,” she said, adding that classical music is such a unique and powerful form of expression. “Diverse voices and perspectives can only make classical music stronger both today and in the future. It’s an honor to play a part in helping CIM create a diverse and inclusive future for classical music in America."