SWOT: Prep
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats
| Preparatory School | |
|---|---|
| Strengths: Prep | Opportunities: Prep |
| Distinctive programs serving young and amateur musicians since 1950 Affiliation and shared resources with world-class conservatory Sterling reputation of its programs Excellent, committed, and high-profile faculty Long history of success Professional staff Widely recognized large ensembles Depth and breadth of programming Unique model and positioning in Boston’s music education community (size, scope, and quality) Strong partnership with Walnut Hill School | Solid organizational infrastructure and strong institutional branding allows for sustainable program growth and development, with relatively low risk Opportunity to use Prep as a cultivation tool for developing citizen-artists, not just performers Closer alignment with college will enrich the experience of all NEC students, and help create pathways to careers in music both on-stage and off, as future audiences and arts advocates Encouraging cross-over genres will help prepare students to take their place as 21st-century musicians |
| Weaknesses: Prep | Threats: Prep |
| Low faculty wages Lack of space limits program growth Lack of investment dollars for marketing, competitive salaries, technology Perception of “elitist” culture can discourage present and potential students Tension in identity between open-enrollment community program and serious performance training program Community partnerships are not well-defined Not a magnet for significant fundraising | In a difficult economic climate, music “enrichment” can be seen as an expendable expense Low faculty wages limit recruitment and threaten retention Classical music (still the mainstay of our offerings) as a relevant art form is increasingly threatened |