Two Innovative Programs

Parnassus Society offers two innovative internship programs bridging music, science, and community. The Mindspan Neuroscience–Parnassus Collaboration engages college students who majors in Neuroscience or Music Performance—in research and performance projects exploring music’s impact on dementia and Alzheimer’s. The Parnassus–OCSA Internship Program, now in its second season, gives high school students from Orange County School of the Arts, Classical Voice Conservatory, hands-on experience in marketing, social media, rehearsals, and concert support: cultivating the next generation of creative leaders.

Parnassus-OCSA CV Internship Initiative

Now in its second season, the Parnassus Society Internship Program is a growing initiative developed in partnership with the Classical Voice Conservatory at Orange County High School of the Arts. After beginning with two dedicated lead interns last year, this season marks the first full class of interns—ten talented students gaining real-world experience in the production and presentation of opera and classical music. The program is immersive and project-driven, giving interns the chance to collaborate closely with guest artists and Parnassus staff in areas ranging from production and marketing to development, administration, and arts advocacy. Whether assisting in rehearsals, supporting concerts, or engaging with donors and community members, interns play an active role in bringing performances to life while developing creativity, professionalism, and leadership skills.

In addition to behind-the-scenes training, interns also enjoy opportunities to participate in performances and showcase projects, allowing them to bring their own artistry to the stage while experiencing the collaborative energy of live performance.

Mindspan-Parnassus Neuroscience Collaboration

The Mindspan Neuroscience – Parnassus Collaboration is a pioneering, student-led initiative devoted to advancing understanding of music’s impact on dementia, with a particular emphasis on Alzheimer’s disease. Interns—UCLA students majoring in either Neuroscience or Vocal Performance—unite scientific inquiry with the transformative art of performance, working alongside mentors, researchers, and guest artists to explore how sound can awaken memory, calm disorientation, and rekindle connection for those living with cognitive decline.

In addition to research and community engagement, these student interns design performance projects that share music’s impact in both artistic and therapeutic settings. Whether presenting at concerts, educational events, or outreach programs, they bring their discoveries to life on stage, demonstrating music’s ability to heal, inspire, and connect.

Through this blend of performance and research, the collaboration bridges art and science, empowering the next generation of leaders to envision new possibilities for music’s role in health and healing. Together, we seek to deepen understanding, spark discovery, and bring comfort and dignity to those affected by memory-related illness.