Master Classes Return World-Class Music Education to Cortez Students

Before the coronavirus pandemic, Cortez high school students could participate in master classes led by world-class musicians. But the pandemic ended the program put on by Southwest Colorado Concerts. Growing costs have largely prevented the program — as well as free student tickets to Southwest Colorado Concerts’ performance series — from returning. Volunteers with the local music nonprofit reached out to LOR with the idea to relaunch the program and expand musical training for students at Montezuma-Cortez High School, Montezuma-Cortez Middle School, and the Cortez area more broadly. LOR’s funding will help Southwest Colorado Concerts cover artist fees, provide free student tickets for concerts, and hire a student engagement coordinator to expand local music education.