With an unwavering belief in the transformative power of music for social change, Dr. Ian Saunders is devoted to reshaping the contemporary relevance and significance of classical music. This commitment is evident through his artistic pursuits, educational contributions, and visionary leadership.
Dr. Saunders currently holds the role of Artistic Director at Project STEP, an institution committed to providing comprehensive music instruction to young musicians from historically underrepresented communities in classical music. Prior to his tenure at Project STEP, he played pivotal roles within the leadership teams of The Eastern Music Festival, where he served as the Assistant Dean of Students, and The Longy School of Music, where he held the position of Assistant Dean for Artistic and Social Change. His invaluable insights and expertise have also been instrumental in shaping the vision and future of organizations such as Equity Arc (formerly National Instrumentalist Mentoring and Advancement Network) and Emmanuel Music in Boston, MA, where he actively serves as a board member.
Furthermore, Dr. Saunders is a distinguished fellow in the prestigious Sphinx LEAD program, a two-year leadership initiative designed to catalyze transformation within the music industry by empowering the next generation of executive leaders.
Dr. Ian Saunders continues to thrive in an exhilarating career as a highly sought-after bassist, appearing with prestigious ensembles such as The Cleveland Orchestra, The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Chautauqua Symphony Orchestra, The Virginia Symphony, Sphinx Symphony, and many more. His musical journey also includes remarkable collaborations with Grammy-winning ensemble Roomful of Teeth, A Far Cry, Cherish the Ladies, rock legends Kansas, and the dynamic Hip-Hop artist, Thee Phantom. Moreover, his performances have graced iconic venues, including the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., Heinz Hall in Pittsburgh, PA, and New York's illustrious Carnegie Hall. His musical prowess has extended beyond borders, with appearances in Canada, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Saunders has made a significant impact in various educational settings. He has dedicated himself to teaching in youth programs nationwide, igniting the aspirations of students from K-12 and helping them cultivate success in their lives through the transformative power of music education. Furthermore, he has shared his knowledge and expertise at the collegiate level, teaching at institutions such as The University of Cincinnati, The University of Maryland, Northern Kentucky University, and Penn State University.
Since 2006, his teaching career has been centered around student development. However, what truly sets him apart as an exceptional educator is his unwavering commitment to the well-being of his students and his dedication to guiding them from their aspirations to their concrete future endeavors. This perspective has consistently proven to be invaluable in his work with students at all educational levels.
As a prominent advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dr. Ian Saunders has been honored with invitations to impart his wisdom to numerous esteemed organizations, including Sphinx Connect 2021, The League of American Orchestras, The Chautauqua Institution, and many others.
Current as of December 2023. No editing of above biographies to be made without permission.