Chideha Osondu has already mastered the flute since first picking up the instrument six years ago. Now, the 14-year-old Bloomfield native is taking her skills to new heights while training at one of the world’s most prestigious music schools.
Each Saturday, she travels to New York City to take part in Juilliard’s selective Music Advancement Program, where she receives personalized training from world-renowned musicians.
The tuition-free program is designed to expand access to classical music education for young musicians with advanced skills, according to the school’s website. Alongside a cohort of about 100 other students from the tri-state area, Osondu participates in group classes and private lessons, and performs in an orchestra, with the option to remain in the program through her senior year. Saturday marked the start of the program for the 2025 to 2026 school year…