Get to know Ivory Stephenson, Program Manager of our Greater South Side (GSS) site! A violist by trade, Ivory comes to The People’s Music School with exceptional musical talent and a deep-rooted passion for accessible arts education. We asked Ivory about what inspires her to do the work that she does.
When did you first know you wanted to pursue music?
I started playing violin when I was 8 years old! I got my start in a program very similar to People’s, called String Project. When I was in middle school, I decided to give viola a try. I loved it so much that I decided to continue on viola and never look back! I majored in Viola Performance when I entered college. I ended up studying at the University of Arizona. I have always been passionate about music education. I stood on the shoulders of great teachers and musicians dedicated to the mission of spreading the joy of music, and I knew it was something I wanted to pursue.
Why People’s? What about our mission resonates with you?
I’ve had a lifelong passion for making music education accessible to young people, and The People’s Music School’s mission immediately spoke to me. Actively removing tuition barriers aligns directly with my personal values.
What also resonates with me is the school’s emphasis on creativity, community, and hard work. I believe these are essential values to instill in young people as they grow into adulthood. I wanted to be an active part of a program that makes the world a better place, and The People’s Music School does just that.
You joined on as our Greater South Side Program Manager in July of 2025. Tell us a bit about your role.
As a program manager, I’m responsible for maintaining the health of our community, which includes students, families, staff, and faculty. My primary goal is to provide the consistency and stability needed to cultivate musical excellence. I see my role as being a catalyst for positive change and working with my team to execute the vision for our program at The People’s Music School.
Greater South Side students perform at the Winter Concert
What excites you most about your work in providing access to the benefits of a high-quality music education?
I’m most excited to meet the children and their families. They are the heart of the TPMS community, and I’m looking forward to helping these kids realize their full potential. As a program manager, I get to be a part of their journey, providing the stable environment and resources they need to not just learn music, but to grow as individuals.
I am also really looking forward to providing TPMS students with opportunities to be involved with the South Side community. I am also really looking forward to exposing the students to a variety of music. I have connections with Grant Park Music Festival, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and many local Chicago artists, such as Angel Bat Dawid, and D-Composed.
You’ve had experience both as a musician and as an arts administrator. What advice would you give to someone who wants to balance the two?
That’s a great question. The advice I’d give is to really lean into resilience and discipline. In these fields, your passion will be tested, and music is something you have to choose every day, even when it’s hard. You need to have unwavering faith in your capabilities and be able to keep going. On top of that, it’s crucial to be a team player. Many roles in these fields require constant collaboration, whether it’s with fellow teachers, other administrators, or the community. Being able to work effectively with others is just as important as your individual skills.
What do you like to do when you’re not at The People's Music School or practicing viola?
I love riding horses, and I take ballet classes on the weekends! When I’m not out and about, you can find me at my local bookstore reading, or enjoying a movie at the theatre in my neighborhood!