Nurturing the Next Generation of Music Industry Leaders

Designing a successful music industry apprenticeship program // Trombone Shorty Foundation

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Trombone Shorty Foundation envisioned something bold: a homegrown music industry shaped by the brilliance and creativity of New Orleans' young talent—especially its opportunity youth. To bring this vision to life, they partnered with Agaru Consulting to co-create an apprenticeship program rooted in community, equity, and long-term impact.

From shaping the theory of change to building evaluation tools and a pilot workplan, we collaborated closely to answer the questions that matter most: How do young adults define success? What do they need to thrive? How will we know when we’re on the right path?

Together, we designed a program that honors the experiences of its participants, reflects their aspirations, and adapts as they grow. Now entering its third graduating class, the apprenticeship continues to evolve and influence the Foundation’s broader strategy.

Agaru is proud to remain a strategic partner to the Trombone Shorty Foundation, providing ongoing coaching, evaluation, and organization-wide planning. This work reflects our shared belief: that when young people are supported with intention and care, they have the power to shape industries—and futures.