Black Teaching Artist-in-Residence Fellow Program
Meet our Inaugural Black Teaching Artist-in-Residence Fellow!
Omari Abdul-Alim, Violinist
Black Teaching Artist-in-Residence Fellow 2024-26
Omari Abdul-Alim is a distinguished violinist and educator, who brings experience and passion to his new role. With a career spanning over a decade, Abdul-Alim has captivated audiences nationwide with his virtuosity and dedication to music education. He is recognized for his ability to inspire young musicians and foster a deep appreciation for the arts.
Omari is a seasoned performer and composer in various genres including Hip-Hop, Jazz, Gospel, Soul, Alternative Rock, and more. He has appeared as a guest performer with Opera Neo, Randolph College, the Old Globe Theater, San Diego’s Martin Luther King Gospel Choir, New Vision of Praise Jazz Band, and more.
He continues to audition and perform with the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, Poway Symphony Orchestra, Coronado Philharmonia Orchestra, Cabrillo Chamber Orchestra, and San Diego City Ballet.
Current BTAR Fellow Status: We are not currently accepting applications at this time.
ABOUT THE BTAR FELLOW PROGRAM
UniSound is expanding the scope of its existing Black Teaching Artist program, which supports the artistic practice and professional development of Black music teaching artists in the Pittsburgh region. In the fall of 2024, UniSound will welcome the inaugural UniSound Black Teaching Artist Fellow, who will be selected through a competitive nationwide search. The UniSound Black Teaching Artist Fellowship is a two-year, full-time position for an early career music teaching artist who identifies as Black/of African descent. Due to the current needs of the Pittsburgh ecosystem, for the 2024-2026 session priority will be given to a violin teaching artist. The BTAR Fellow will split their time between teaching private, group classes, and chamber coachings through a partnership with Hope Academy and Guardians of Sound Hip Hop Orchestra. They will also have the opportunity to facilitate workshops in community and educational settings. The BTAR Fellow will also be encouraged to collaborate and perform with local arts organizations (for additional compensation). The fellow will receive a yearly salary ranging from $35,000 – $40,000, a housing/transportation stipend, and opportunities for professional mentorship and networking.
A grant from the Hillman Foundation has funded this program expansion. UniSound is also currently funded by The Heinz Endowments. Previous funders include the Arts Equity Reimagined Fund, The Allegheny Regional Asset District, and an anonymous funder.
To view the press release, click here.
We are not currently accepting applications at this time. If you have any questions about the program or how to apply, please contact us at BTAR@unisound.us.
Resources:
- Want to talk to previous BTAR, Zuly Inirio? Contact emily@unisound.us to get connected.
- Cost of living calculator
- Moving to Pittsburgh- Relocation Information
