The Music Institute’s One Composer, One Community program highlights the life and work of a historically underrepresented composer each year, incorporating their compositions into teaching studios, and culminating in a public performance at Nichols Concert Hall.

During the 2025-2026 school year MIC will celebrate and explore the music of Manuel María Ponce (1882-1948), one of Mexico’s foremost composers, widely acknowledged as a pioneer of musical nationalism and recognized for bridging the gaps between categories like popular, classical, folk and orchestral. His prolific catalogue contains more than 300 compositions. He was called the “creator of the modern Mexican song."

This program is entirely funded by people like you!

Your gift brings the unique contributions of gifted composers from every corner of the world to thousands of students each year. Thank you!

One Composer, One Community

Celebrating Manuel María Ponce