J Ellington Musicians Professional Development Program
## I. Program Overview
**"An Unprecedented Opportunity for Purpose-Driven Musicians and Aspiring Musical Leaders in Mental Health Advocacy"**
### A. Purpose
World's first comprehensive musical professional development program connecting musicians of all instruments and genres with mental health advocacy through transformative musical experiences
### B. Mission
Partner with J Ellington's established platform to elevate mental and behavioral health awareness through diverse musical performances, collaborations, and community engagement across all musical disciplines
### C. Mental Health Campaign Connection
This initiative builds upon VoiceUp's successful mental health advocacy campaign that has reached 2,326 cities across 109 countries, creating the world's largest grassroots network for purpose-driven wellness and behavioral health support
### D. Proven Success
Building on J Ellington's current catalog of 400,000+ streams dedicated to mental health advocacy and behavioral wellness support
## II. Participation Options (6-Month Program)
### A. Studio Contributor (2 hrs/week)
1. Create instrumental arrangements and compositions for mental health advocacy recordings
2. Collaborate on new releases addressing anxiety, depression, and wellness themes across all musical styles
### B. Community Performer (5 hrs/week)
1. Lead local performances at hospitals, community centers, and wellness events
2. Facilitate therapeutic music workshops and earn continuing education in music therapy
### C. Content Creator (8 hrs/week)
1. Develop original mental health music content and multimedia campaigns
2. Earn academic credit through partnerships with music therapy and psychology programs
### D. Tour Performer (12 hrs/week)
1. Join regional and international tour circuits with extensive performance opportunities
2. Gain hands-on experience in global mental health advocacy through music
### E. Musical Co-Founder (15 hrs/week)
1. Earn 0.1-1.5% equity stake while leading strategic musical and advocacy initiatives
2. Shape J Ellington's artistic direction and mental health program development
### F. Creative Director Board Member
1. Interview-based selection for executive leadership roles
2. Annual compensation plus equity up to 1.5% with strategic oversight responsibilities
## III. The Transformative Power of Purpose-Driven Music
### A. Personal Benefits for Musicians
1. 38% reduction in performance anxiety through meaningful artistic expression
2. 29% increase in creative satisfaction when music serves healing purposes
3. Enhanced emotional resilience and professional fulfillment across all musical disciplines
### B. Community Impact
1. Deliver 22% greater emotional impact through purpose-aligned performances
2. Audiences report 31% improvement in mental wellness after J Ellington events
3. Create lasting connections between music and mental health recovery through VoiceUp's established advocacy network
## IV. Target Participants
### A. Musical Expertise
Musicians across all instruments and genres including:
1. **String Instruments:** Guitar, violin, cello, bass, harp, banjo, mandolin
2. **Wind Instruments:** Flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, clarinet, oboe
3. **Percussion:** Drums, timpani, xylophone, marimba, hand percussion
4. **Keyboard/Piano:** Classical, jazz, contemporary, electronic
5. **Electronic/Digital:** DJ, producer, synthesizer, sound design
6. **Vocal:** All ranges and styles (soprano, alto, tenor, bass)
### B. Genre Diversity
All musical styles welcome: pop, rock, country, R&B, classical, jazz, folk, hip-hop, electronic, world music, contemporary Christian, blues, reggae, latin, and fusion
### C. Professional Requirements
Minimum 2 years performance or production experience with demonstrated commitment to using music for social impact and mental health advocacy
### D. Mission Alignment
Passionate about connecting musical talent to mental health awareness, community healing, and global wellness initiatives
## V. Application Process
### A. Flexible Admissions
Rolling applications accepted year-round with priority review within two weeks of submission
### B. First Cohort Launch
November 1st, 2025 - exclusive founding member opportunities available
### C. Application Materials
1. Live musical audition or portfolio submission (virtual or in-person options available)
2. Mental health advocacy vision statement (500 words maximum)
3. Professional performance/production portfolio showcasing musical versatility and style
## VI. Contact and Next Steps
### Email:
### Mission: Transform lives through music while building a sustainable career in purpose-driven musical performance and mental health advocacy leadership across all musical disciplines.