Transforming the Musical Landscape Through Internship Initiatives
Madison Dorsett: Advocating for Diversity and Representation in the Music Industry
Madison Dorsett, a fourth-year music performance major at UCLA's Herb Alpert School of Music, is making waves in the music industry. Her passion for brass music and advocacy for increased representation of BIPOC and gender non-conforming individuals is evident in her various roles, including her work with the Chromatic Brass Collective and her internships at Full Stop Management and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
The Chromatic Brass Collective, a community for BIPOC female and gender non-conforming brass players from across the country, was inspired by Dorsett's entrepreneurial spirit. She hopes the collective will serve as a platform for these underrepresented artists to be seen and heard within the music community. The mission of the Chromatic Brass Collective is to provide a sense of belonging and support for these individuals in the music industry.
Dorsett's work with the Chromatic Brass Collective has not gone unnoticed. Eileen L. Strempel, the inaugural dean of The Herb Alpert School of Music, was impressed by Dorsett's proactive approach and her dedication to creating opportunities for those who are often overlooked. Strempel recommended Dorsett for a summer internship opportunity at Full Stop Management, a company that represents globally renowned clients such as Lizzo, Harry Styles, and Gwen Stefani.
At Full Stop Management, Dorsett oversees day-to-day scheduling and budgeting for various projects. She found it empowering to be the only Black, Indigenous, Person of Color (BIPOC) within her cohort, a testament to the need for increased diversity in the industry.
In addition to her work with the Chromatic Brass Collective and Full Stop Management, Dorsett is also an intern with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. She is also credited for creating the school's first Undergraduate Student Advisory Board (2020-21), which was established to bridge communication between faculty and students and has proven critical in a remote setting.
Dorsett's aspirations extend beyond her current roles. She aspires to establish a "new normal" in the music industry with the Chromatic Brass Collective, one that is more inclusive and representative of the diverse range of talents and voices that exist. With her dedication, hard work, and passion, it is clear that Madison Dorsett is making a significant impact in the music industry and paving the way for future generations of BIPOC and gender non-conforming musicians.
In alignment with her advocacy for diversity in the music industry, Madison Dorsett dreams of expanding her impact beyond her current roles. She envisions using education and self-development opportunities to foster an entertainment sector that showcases the talents of underrepresented artists, including BIPOC and gender non-conforming individuals, alongside music from various genres.
Witnessing the success of the Chromatic Brass Collective and her own professional growth, Madison Dorsett takes solace in enjoying elements of entertainment, such as music, that have brought her joy throughout her journey.
