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 third season, the Parnassus Society Internship Program continues to grow, bringing together emerging artists and arts leaders from both high school and university programs for meaningful, hands-on experience in the production and presentation of opera and classical music.

This season, the program welcomes six interns: two students from Chapman University, one from UCLA, and three from the James and Gretchen Conroy Classical Voice Conservatory at Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA). This expansion reflects Parnassus Society’s commitment to creating a bridge between arts education and the professional world, offering young artists opportunities to learn, contribute, and develop alongside working professionals.

The internship is immersive and project-driven, giving participants the opportunity to collaborate closely with guest artists, artistic leadership, and Parnassus staff. Interns gain practical experience across many aspects of a performing arts organization, including production, marketing, development, administration, community engagement, and arts advocacy. Whether assisting with rehearsals, supporting concerts and special events, or engaging with donors and community members, interns play an active role in bringing Parnassus Society’s work to life while developing creativity, professionalism, collaboration, and leadership skills.

Beyond their behind-the-scenes experience, interns also have opportunities to participate in performances and special showcase projects. These experiences allow them to bring their own artistry to the stage while gaining a deeper understanding of the collaboration, preparation, and dedication required to create live performance.

Through the Internship Program, Parnassus Society is not only introducing the next generation to the professional world of classical music and opera, but also giving young artists and arts leaders a meaningful place within it.

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 include university students majoring in either Neuroscience or Vocal Performance, uniting 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.