Stanford Thompson

Stanford Thompson is an internationally recognized arts leader and musician dedicated to music education and equity. He is the founder and former Executive Director of Play On Philly (POP), a transformative music education program for underserved children in Philadelphia.

Professional Background:

• Graduated from the Curtis Institute of Music with a Bachelor of Music in Trumpet Performance
• Founded Play On Philly in 2011, which grew to become the largest independent El Sistema-inspired program in the United States134
• Currently serves as Executive Director of Equity Arc and Principal at Goldsmith Strategies1
• Previously served as Special Advisor to the President at New England Conservatory of Music1

Musical and Educational Philosophy: Thompson believes that "music education is a powerful tool for positive personal and community change".2 His organization Play On Philly provides:

• Free daily music instruction to students K-12
• Over 25 performance opportunities annually
• Instrument loans at no cost
• Focus on developing life skills and academic achievement35

Achievements and Recognition:

• Received the Sphinx Medal of Excellence in 20131
• Play On Philly has a 100% program graduation rate
• Inspired by Venezuela's El Sistema music education model34

Thompson continues to serve on multiple boards, including BalletX and the Greater Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, while maintaining a passion for jazz and music education.2