🎶 A Year of Growth, Music, and Community: Celebrating MAP 2024–2025
As the school year comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our Music Access Project (MAP) students. This year’s cohort filled our halls—and stages—with passion, growth, and resilience.
From the first rehearsal to the final solo recital, these young musicians grew as artists, collaborators, and leaders. We couldn’t be prouder of their dedication and all they’ve achieved.
🎼 Highlights from the Year
MAP Director Judy Woo shared some of her favorite moments from the season:
“This year was full of memorable moments—but if I had to pick just a few favorites, here’s what stands out the most:
🎼 Watching students let go of fear and improvise during the workshop with David Krakauer and Kathy Tagg.
🎻 Seeing them rise to the occasion and perform at their absolute best during the Chamber Music concert at the DiMenna Center.
🌟 And of course, our year-end solos concert—what a joy to see just how far they’ve come. I’m so proud of each and every one of them.”
Throughout the year, MAP students participated in:
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Masterclasses and workshops with acclaimed guest artists
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Jazz combos, solo recitals, and chamber music performances
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Music theory classes and ensemble experiences
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A strong peer community built on support and shared growth
🎓 Spotlight on Graduating Seniors
We’re also celebrating the MAP Class of 2025 as they head off to top colleges and conservatories around the country. These students leave behind a legacy of leadership, musical excellence, and heart.
“This year of MAP has meant so much to me. I’ve grown so much musically and made really strong connections with other students. I’m especially grateful for my teacher, Kaoru Hinata, and the immense improvement I’ve seen in my playing thanks to her guidance. This program has strengthened my love for music so much.”
— Louise Prelati (Brooklyn), Boston University
“MAP has meant everything to my musical and personal life. I feel so privileged to study with such amazing teachers. My cello playing, both technically and musically, has grown exponentially. I’ve also built close friendships—and receiving financial aid made it all possible.”
— Camilla Podwil (Brooklyn), Oberlin College
Congratulations to our MAP 2025 graduates:
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Abby Harach, violin – City College, CUNY (Manhattan)
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Will Itskovich, piano – McGill University (Queens)
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Daniel Kim, percussion – Queens College, CUNY (Brooklyn)
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Angelo Lopez, cello – Queens College, CUNY (Bronx)
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Camilla Podwil, cello – Oberlin College (Brooklyn)
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Louise Prelati, flute – Boston University (Brooklyn)
🎵 Looking Ahead: MAP 2025–2026
As we celebrate this year’s successes, we’re already getting ready for the next Music Access Project cohort.
MAP is Bloomingdale’s scholarship audition-based training precollege program for dedicated young musicians across New York City that offers up to 100% tuition free for qualifying families. Students receive:
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Weekly private lessons
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Chamber music and ensemble opportunities
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Music theory classes
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Masterclasses with world-class faculty and guest artists
Through MAP, students not only build technical skill but also gain confidence, creativity, and lifelong community.
Know a student who might be a good fit? Stay tuned for details on next year’s application process!
💛 Thank You
To our MAP students: thank you for the music, the effort, and the heart you brought to every note this year.
To our Bloomingdale community: thank you for making this program possible.
Together, we’re building something truly meaningful.
🎥 Want to see more?
