Power of Culture Blog
Governor Healey Addresses Council Members
Her video address charges them with taking bold action to continue the Agency’s work of fostering an equitable and vibrant cultural sector across Massachusetts
Ann Petruccelli Moon, Manager of Executive Affairs
On May 20 the Boston Music Project (BMP) hosted its annual Playing with Purpose Gala. At the event, Mass Cultural Council Executive Director Michael J. Bobbitt was one of three recipients of BMP’s 2023 Harmony in Action award. The award shines a spotlight on inspiring artists, educators, and community leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to social change through music and the arts and honors the powerful role music plays in uplifting communities and promoting positive change. Michael was honored alongside Boston Mayor Michelle Wu and BMP’s Mozart Orchestra Director Maria del Pilar Kelly.
“Boston Music Project wishes to recognize Michael for his vital role in providing much-needed resources to countless arts organizations across Massachusetts, local artists, and communities in need as we traverse the uncertainty of life and culture in a post-pandemic world,” said BMP Executive Director Christopher Schroeder.
BMP is committed to ensuring the long-term social-emotional and musical success of children and youth by nurturing creativity, celebrating cultures, and developing civic engagement through quality music education and performance. The organization is one of the largest in-school music partners to Boston Public Schools with over 1,100 young people receiving weekly music education across 15 schools from a team of 52 talented teaching artists.
To date, as Executive Director Michael Bobbitt has led Mass Cultural Council through the development and implementation of its first-ever Racial Equity Plan, worked with staff, Council Members, and cultural sector advocates to secure and distribute a historic $60.1M in state pandemic relief funding, and overseen the process of drafting and adoption of the Agency’s FY24-FY26 strategic plan, which will take effect July 1. He was appointed as the Agency’s Executive Director in February 2021.
Congratulations to Michael on this most recent recognition!
