Strathmore introduces six dynamic young musicians as its Artists in Residence (AIR) Class of 2026—a genre-defying cohort selected for their creativity, skill, and artistic vision. The artists will make their debut at Fresh AIR on Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 8 p.m. at The Music Center. This signature event for one of the region’s premier professional development programs for rising musicians will feature the participants’ original works, innovative collaborations, and cross-disciplinary performances. Tickets are available to the public on Friday, Sept. 5.
“Our Artists in Residence program is a launchpad for extraordinary talent,” said Lauren Campbell, Strathmore’s vice president of education and community engagement. “The Class of 2026 brings vibrant energy and bold creativity that will resonate well beyond this season.”
Now in its 21st year, AIR has supported over 112 musicians aged 16 to 32 through performance opportunities, expert guidance, and industry training. Participants, selected annually through a competitive process, are paired with mentors and take part in seminars, community outreach, and commissioned projects as part of Strathmore’s Institute for Artistic Development.
Fresh AIR gives the community a first glimpse of the new cohort before each resident takes the spotlight with featured performances beginning in January 2026. More information about the program and upcoming class, including bios and photos, is available at strathmore.org/air.
Michael McSweeney, Percussion (January 2026): A College Park, Md.-based percussionist, educator, and bandleader whose global influences span Afro-Cuban, jazz, and salsa traditions. McSweeney leads Costas Colectivo and performs with numerous regional groups throughout the D.C. area.
Cyrus Mackey, Trumpet (February 2026): A jazz trumpeter and producer based in Baltimore, Md., Mackey was a National YoungArts Foundation finalist who studied under jazz legends Wynton Marsalis and Roy Hargrove. He creates innovative works that blend traditional jazz with contemporary sound design and production.
Chris Hon, Keyboard (March 2026): A Washington, D.C.-based keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist who fuses his jazz training with electronic music through innovative sound design. Hon has performed at prestigious venues including NPR’s Tiny Desk, Blues Alley, and 9:30 Club.
Ellen Gira, Cello (April 2026): A Potomac, Md.-based cellist who combines classical training with Scottish, Irish, and Old-Time traditions. Gira holds a doctorate in Scottish music from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and performs internationally with the award-winning folk duo Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira.
Juan Manú, Voice, Guitar, Violin (May 2026): A Washington, D.C.-based singer-songwriter whose Latin-folk music celebrates his Mexican heritage and Tejano culture. With classical violin training and extensive mariachi experience, Manú uses traditional genres to create music that uplifts queer voices.
Kanysha, Voice (June 2026): A Washington, D.C.-based vocalist, songwriter, and actress whose performance credits span from Carnegie Hall to Arena Stage. Kanysha releases original music on streaming platforms and co-hosts the Downstage Center podcast.
The Class of 2026 will be mentored by Grammy-nominated rapper and multi-instrumentalist Christylez Bacon; Billboard-charting violinist, vocalist, and educator Chelsey Green; and jazz drummer and vibraphonist Chuck Redd, under the leadership of Grammy Award-winning folk artist and AIR advisor Cathy Fink. The mentors will also join the new class on stage during the preview concert, creating unique collaborative performances that showcase both emerging and established talent.
Tickets for Fresh Air ($15-$35) can be purchased online or by calling 301-581-5100 starting Friday, Sept. 5. For more information about the Artists in Residence program and the 2026 class, visit strathmore.org/air.
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