A passionate ambassador of classical music, violinist Monique Mead has established an international presence as a musician, educator, and innovator. Her audience-centered programs draw thousands of new concertgoers annually and create relevance for classical music in the 21st century.
Carnegie Mellon School of Music
As Director of Music Entrepreneurship, Monique Mead has developed a curriculum based on experiential learning that fosters student initiatives throughout Pittsburgh's diverse community and provides project-based internships with major arts organizations. She collaborates with dedicated administrators and faculty to offer insight to professional life and help students take an innovative approach in crafting unique musical paths. She also coaches individual musicians wishing to expand their musical reach.
Rancho La Puerta Chamber Music Festival
From February 5-12, 2022, Monique directs the 5th annual Chamber Music Festival at Rancho la Puerta, voted the #1 Destination Spa by Travel & Leisure Magazine. This season features an all-star cast of musicians including the Miró Quartet, pianist Orion Weiss, and Anthony McGill, Principal Clarinet of the NY Phil, The week features nightly concerts and live music in nature settings. In addition to a complete wellness program and healthy gourmet meals, Festival Week offers guests the opportunity to interact with top-tier artists in a relaxed setting. Join us for an unforgettable experience!
Beethoven in the Face of Adversity
Celebrating the indomitable spirit that lives within all of us, Monique recently performed 50 performances of Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in 250 days for people facing adversities of all kinds. The final celebration took place in on December 16, 2019 in Pittsburgh's Carnegie Music Hall, kicking off Beethoven’s 250th birthday year with a performance of the Beethoven Concerto with the Edgewood Symphony and performances by diverse community groups, including Mariachi International de Pittsburgh, the Bruderhof Choir, and Congolese singers. Visit the website to view the tour, see a documentary video, or read the blog.
Olympic Strings Workshop
As Co-Founder and Artistic Director of the Olympic Strings Workshop, Monique promotes young talent by providing an immersive experience of music and nature at its best in the beautiful setting of Olympic National Park. High school strings students spend five days polishing their technique, playing chamber music, creating music videos, exploring nature, and making friends. OSW is committed to making a high-level musical training accessible to all, including those living in isolated communities. To sponsor a student or learn more about the camp, visit the website.
Azure Concerts Pittsburgh
In partnership with the Autism Society of Pittsburgh, Monique serves as Founding Artistic Director of Azure Concerts Pittsburgh, an "all behaviors welcome" series for families living with autism and other challenges. In her role at Carnegie Mellon University, Monique launched this series in 2021 with a team of graduate students dedicated to promoting well-being and making musical experiences accessible to all.
Sound Healing with Monique
A lifelong witness to the healing power of music, Monique is fascinated by the effect of sound frequencies on the nervous system. In her Sound Healing practice, she combines the sounds of live classical music, quartz singing bowls, and gongs as a powerful modality for achieving deep states of relaxation that enable the body and mind to heal on all levels. She offers group and private sessions at the Awareness & Wellness Center in Shadyside, as well as universities, hospitals, and private events.