The Mead Model for Audience Development
Born out of a desire to create an audience for her own concert series as a graduate student at the Jacobs School of Music, Mead discovered her ability to engage with the community in innovative ways, thus motivating concert attendance through personal connection with the musicians. The success of these early efforts grew into a model (Mead Model) which she uses to customize a wide range of audience development programs for orchestras and festivals internationally. Programs based on the Mead Model include the Pittsburgh Symphony’s “Meet the Maestro,” Mainly Mozart’s “Joyful Noise,” Cologne Philharmonic’s “Ohren Auf,” Berlin’s “Klasseklänge,“ and Munich’s “Klassik zum Staunen“. In Germany, the Mead Model became popular under the brand “Klassik for Kids" which featured Monique as soloist and moderator. Having produced excellent results since 1997, Mead's current focus is document and "package" the model so that it can be implemented by arts organizations across the world.
Pre-Concert Engagement
Building rapport with audiences and engaging them in the musical experience is Mead's passion. She has been presenting concert commentary internationally for 15 years, and as Co-Music Director of Strings Music Festival, she hosts and introduces each program of the summer season. She has designed numerous pre-concert activities ranging from interactions with "Music Geniuses" in the lobby, tours of the hall with backstage trivia games, or "random acts of music" that build curiosity and interest.
Initiatives with Community Groups
Monique connects arts organizations with dedicated volunteers from diverse community groups such as churches, youth orchestras, environmental groups, or sports clubs. She develops programs that support the group's objectives and lead them to a concert experience they can enjoy together within a familiar context. Mead also works directly with performing ensembles, challenging them to build their own audiences use social media and personal charisma.