Watch: CCM alum Evan Gidley discusses creating connections through participatory art
Presented as part of 'CCM Speaks,' led by the UC Alumni Association
Watch the latest alumni guest lecture presented as part of CCM Speaks, a new series led by the UC Alumni Association.
In the second installment of CCM Speaks, UC College-Conservatory of Music alum Evan Gidley (MM '18) presents "Inspiring Hope: Creating Connection Through Participatory Art."
Gidley has served as executive director of the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra since May 2022. He is responsible for planning and executing the orchestra’s annual Summermusik and We Are One festivals as well as special projects such as September 2023’s historic Walk with Amal. Prior to this appointment, he was orchestra personnel manager with the Columbus (OH) Symphony Orchestra, where he helped lead the organization’s robust community outreach program. Gidley received his MM in Saxophone Performance from CCM, and he remains active as a freelance saxophonist and private lesson instructor.
Watch his lecture below.
Lecture Summary: On Sept. 22, 2023, a 12-foot-tall puppet of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee girl traveled across the iconic Roebling Suspension Bridge in downtown Cincinnati, capturing the hearts of more than 3,000 individuals who came to welcome her. Many had planned their trip to see “Little Amal” for months, bringing with them visual art projects. Many identified as American immigrants or refugees while others grew up within a few miles of downtown Cincinnati. Regardless of background, everyone welcoming Little Amal participated in creating an experience for her, and therefore, felt a personal connection to her story.
In this lecture, Gidley shares how his organization, the Cincinnati Chamber Orchestra, served as the leading presenting organization of Little Amal’s Cincinnati visit. Gidley discusses how an organization of only three staff members helped bring together more than 135 performers and 40 nonprofit organizations and promoted a message of hope to more than 500,000 people all within a span of six months. Gidley explains how participatory art, defined as an approach to art making which engages public participation in the creative process, is the future of the arts industry and how individuals and organizations can adapt to meet audience demands.
Produced by CCM Recording Productions
- Camera: Melissa Godoy, Annie Thompson
- Sound: Abigail Stamps
- Editors: Aislinn Moss-Buckley, Hunter Calderon
This lecture was originally presented to the graduate-level Programming and Operations Class offered through CCM's Arts Administration program on Oct. 3, 2024. CCM, in partnership with UC's Carl H. Lindner College of Business, boasts one of the few combined MA/MBA Arts Administration programs in the country. This rigorous two-year program trains future CEOs and senior managers to lead professional performing, visual and cultural arts organizations.
The debut installment of CCM Speaks, featuring CCM alum Timothy O'Neill discussing AI's future influence on classical music, is also available for on-demand viewing.
Stay Connected
CCM's dynamic and influential alumni network includes over 14,500 artists, teachers, entrepreneurs, researchers, leaders and professionals around the world. The support of our generous alumni financially, or through the donation of your time and talent provides an exceptional experience for our current students and fosters a culture of excellence at the college.
Are you ready to engage with CCM? Find your niche as an engaged and active alumna or alumnus by coming to social events, returning to campus for a performance or master class, volunteering, networking or giving back to the college. Continue your relationship with us beyond graduation.
Learn more about upcoming ways to get involved.
Featured image at top: Pan's Fountain in CCM's Alumni Gardens. Photo/UC Marketing + Brand
Related Stories
Discovery Amplified expands research, teaching support across A&S
February 19, 2026
The College of Arts & Sciences is investing in a bold new vision for research, teaching and creative activity through Discovery Amplified. This initiative was launched through the Dean’s Office in August 2024, and is expanding its role as a central hub for scholarly activity and research support within the Arts & Sciences (A&S) community. Designed to serve faculty, students, and staff, the initiative aims to strengthen research productivity, foster collaboration, and enhance teaching innovation. Discovery Amplified was created to help scholars define and pursue academic goals while increasing the reach and impact of A&S research and training programs locally and globally. The unit provides tailored guidance, connects collaborators, and supports strategic partnerships that promote innovation across disciplines.
CCM Philharmonia presents concert + livestream on Feb. 20
February 18, 2026
Audiences can enjoy CCM Philharmonia's next concert in person or watch at home via livesteam at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 20. Featuring alumni guest artists Rebecca Barnes, viola; and Jonathan Lee, cello; tickets for the "Midlife Crisis" concert are on sale now through the CCM Box Office. The livesteam is free to watch on CCM's website and YouTube channel.
UC Digital Futures and Cincinnati Fire Museum launch educational video game
February 17, 2026
A new collaboration between the University of Cincinnati's Digital Performance Lab (DP Lab), CCM Acting, UC's School of Information Technology, and the Cincinnati Fire Museum is using gaming technology to bring essential fire safety education to children. The project titled Fire Escape is an interactive video game designed to teach K-12 students how to respond safely during a house fire. It was developed through Digital Futures research support, student game development, and guidance from local fire safety professionals.