Music School of Delaware discussions to start July 20

The Music School of Delaware's Milford branch will host a new discussion series called Summer Soapbox.

The three-part series opens with Opera for Beginners, led by music school faculty member Joanne Ward at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 20. Ward will demystify the genre of opera in a fun, informal chat with attendees.

Baltimore-based musician Rich Barry will present Musical Entrepreneurship: How to Turn Passion into a Career at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 27. "I wanted to host [this talk] because entrepreneurship in the music industry is as much a skill that I've developed through conversations and experiences as performing the guitar," said Barry.

Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra Music Director Julien Benichou will speak about Orchestra Leadership: Behind the Curtain at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 24.

Milford Branch Director Amos Fayette said he is excited to launch this series for the community. "The Summer Soapbox focus is informal yet informative gatherings with music industry professionals," he said. "Each session is tailored to the person leading the discussion, but these are topics we're asked about all the time at the music school."

All programs are free to attend, which Fayette hopes will make the series very appealing.

The address is 23 N. Walnut St., Milford. For more information, call the Milford branch at 302-422-2043.