MIDORI is Coming to JOMP: a Prestigious ORP Residency in March 2026

MIDORI is Coming to JOMP! 🎻✨
A Prestigious ORP Residency in March 2026

We’re thrilled to announce that the Joy of Music Program will host a Midori Orchestra Residencies Program (MidoriORP) residency from March 3-7, 2026. This five-day program will bring world-renowned violinist Midori to Worcester to work closely with the Joy of Music Youth Orchestra (JYO) and other ensembles, providing students with an unforgettable opportunity to rehearse, learn, and perform alongside a legendary artist. 

Securing this residency was a highly competitive process, and we’re honored that the MidoriORP jury was extremely impressed with our presentation and discussion. They recognized JOMP’s commitment to access and community engagement, and felt confident in our ability to create a meaningful and successful residency. Given the high level of applications this year from youth orchestras across the country, this is a tremendous achievement for our program and a testament to everything our faculty, staff, students, and community do to make JOMP a special place. 

See below for more details on what to expect from this exciting residency and how students can get involved to be part of the experience. Spring will be here before we know it - in the meantime, mark your calendars for this extraordinary musical experience coming to JOMP in 2026!

MidoriORP Residency: What to Expect & How to Get Involved

Throughout next year’s residency, participating students will engage in daily rehearsals, masterclasses, and community-building activities with Midori and her teaching team.  The residency will culminate in a final public performance featuring Midori as a soloist with our youth orchestra and ensembles. In addition to working closely with each group at JOMP, Midori’s visit will include outreach to local schools and community partners in the Worcester area, reinforcing our shared commitment to access, inclusion, and the power of music to inspire and connect.

Want to Be Part of This Experience?

If you're a private lesson student who plays an orchestral instrument, now is the perfect time to join JYO or one of our smaller ensembles! These groups are already preparing for their Spring Gala Concert at Mechanics Hall on May 14, 2025, so don’t wait—talk to your teacher or email Caroline@JOMP.org to learn more.

We’ll be sharing more details in the coming months, so stay tuned for ways to get involved and support this exciting residency!

Banner photo by Paul Müller-Hahl, courtesy of Midori Orchestra Residencies Program