We’re excited to welcome you to Philadelphia for a full day of connection, learning, and conversation with colleagues from across the arts education ecosystem.
Connection is at the heart of this gathering, and the day has been intentionally designed to give you time to build relationships, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
Where is the convening?
The convening will take place at Settlement Music School, 416 Queen Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147.
A special thank you to Settlement Music School, a founding member of the National Guild, for hosting us in Philadelphia.
What time should I arrive?
Breakfast and check-in begin at 8:00 AM, with the program beginning at 9:00 AM. The formal program concludes at 5:00 PM, followed by an informal reception and happy hour.
Are meals included?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch, snacks, coffee, water, and other beverages throughout the day are included in your registration fee.
What should I expect from the day?
The Philadelphia Convening is intentionally designed around connection, learning, and conversation rather than moving quickly from session to session.
The schedule includes 30-minute breaks between sessions, giving you time to meet colleagues, continue conversations, grab a coffee, and connect without feeling rushed.
Most breakout sessions will also be offered twice, once in the morning and again in the afternoon. This gives you the flexibility to attend one session in the morning and another in the afternoon while experiencing more of the overall program.
Do I need to choose my sessions in advance?
A short session survey will be sent soon to everyone currently registered so you can let us know which sessions you’re most interested in attending.
Your responses will help the Guild and Settlement Music School anticipate headcounts and make sure we have the right spaces ready for each conversation.
Will there be time to network and connect?
Absolutely. It’s a central part of the day.
Rather than filling every minute with programming, we’ve intentionally created space through 30-minute breaks, shared meals, and gathering spaces for conversations and relationship building.
We want you to leave Philadelphia not only with new ideas, but with new relationships and connections across the arts education ecosystem.
Who will be there?
The gathering is bringing together colleagues from across the arts education ecosystem, including leaders and practitioners from community arts organizations, community music schools, teaching artistry, creative youth development, K–12 education, higher education, philanthropy, advocacy, and regional and national organizations.
Where should I stay?
There is no official conference hotel or room block, so attendees are welcome to choose the accommodations that work best for them. Settlement Music School recommends several options:
Near Settlement Music School
The Gables Bed & Breakfast
4520 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143
Approximately 1.5 miles from Settlement
Homewood Suites by Hilton University City
4109 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Approximately 2 miles from Settlement
The Study at University City
20 South 33rd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104
Approximately 2.5 miles from Settlement
Center City
The Bellevue Hotel
200 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102
Loews Philadelphia Hotel
1200 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107
What should I wear?
Come comfortable. Business casual or whatever helps you feel ready to connect and participate is perfect. This is a full day with movement between sessions and gathering spaces.
What if I have accessibility or dietary needs?
We want the convening to be welcoming and accessible. If you have an accessibility need, dietary consideration, or another accommodation that would help you participate fully, please contact the Guild in advance so our team can coordinate with Settlement Music School.
Can I still register?
Yes. Registration is still open, and we’d love to have you join us in Philadelphia.
Is there a Teaching Artist rate?
Yes. Teaching Artists can register for $45.00. We want the Philadelphia Convening to be accessible to teaching artists and practitioners working directly across the arts education ecosystem.
Have another question?
Contact the Guild at guildinfo@nationalguild.org with questions about registration, accessibility, dietary needs, or the convening.
We look forward to welcoming you to Philadelphia!
