LA County Interns Visit Grand Vision for a Songwriting Workshop
In early October, interns from the LA County Department of Arts & Culture Arts Internship Program gathered at the Grand Annex Music Hall for a peer group event.
The program provides undergraduate college students with meaningful on-the-job training at nonprofit arts organizations throughout the county.
Participating organizations have the opportunity to offer learning events to the cohort of interns. This year, Grand Vision offered an ‘Environmentally-themed Songwriting Workshop” in partnership with Feed & Be Fed Urban Garden.
On Friday, October 3, Taran Schindler, Grand Vision’s Deputy Director met with six interns from four different organizations: 826LA, the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, LA Commons and Grand Vision to introduce them to Grand Vision’s mission, vision and work in San Pedro’s Arts District. The interns first learned about Grand Vision as the Friends Group to the Warner Grand Theatre as well as a hub for live music, music education, creativity and community building. Then the group went on a “field trip” just across the street to the Feed & Be Fed Garden. There, they heard about the Garden’s work creating an urban green space where all are welcome.
Volunteers from the Garden shared their initiatives to grow and distribute organic produce to the community and serve as a playground and educational space. The interns were given a tour of the lush garden, introduced to the art of composting and had the opportunity to plant their own seeds.
Back at the Annex, singer-songwriter Joselyn Wilkinson (who also happens to be Grand Vision’s Development Officer!) led a group songwriting session based on the garden experience. With a melody led by Joselyn, the group created a heartfelt song.
This year marks the 16th year Grand Vision has been a part of the LACDAC Arts Internship Program. The program is an incredible opportunity for both the students and the organizations who hire them, together building the next generation of leadership in the nonprofit arts sector.
