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Writer's pictureRafael Sotolongo

Legacy Production Company's Founder Jacques Bernard on Transforming Music Education and the Performing Arts

An In-Depth Interview with Jacques Bernard on the Vision, Impact, and Future of Legacy Production Company


 

Off The Floor: Edition 1

 

Welcome to the first edition of our "Off The Floor" blog series, where we take you behind the scenes of Legacy Production Company. In this special feature, we have the privilege of interviewing Jacques Bernard, the visionary Founder and President of Legacy. Join us as we explore his journey, the mission of Legacy, and the impact of music education on young lives.


The back of Legacy Production Company member jacket where it has an embroidery of the company logo
 

The Birth of Legacy Production Company


When asked about his inspiration for creating Legacy Production Company, Jacques explains, "The creation of Legacy was inspired by my father's passing in 2021. I wanted to honor his memory by creating an organization that embodies the same sense of family, helping, and inclusion that he instilled in the community. It has evolved into a safe space for everyone—staff, directors, members, parents, and more—to create something special. Legacy has become a community where we value time, effort, and the joy of being together, making it a unique and soul-nourishing experience for all."


 

Personal Growth and Leadership


Jacques reflects on how Legacy has contributed to his personal growth: "Legacy has given me a home where I can express myself and grow as an individual. It has also pushed me to become a better person, knowing that I have so many young individuals following in my footsteps. Additionally, my role with Legacy has helped me develop and refine my leadership skills, allowing me to apply the lessons learned both within the organization and in my role as a full-time manager. This experience has made my leadership approach more adaptable and effective in different environments."

He shares a pivotal moment: "Our very first performance at the FFCC Premier was a defining moment for me. My heart was racing, and I was initially worried about how we would be perceived with only seven members. It felt intimidating until I looked at the ensemble and saw how focused and driven they were. In that moment, I realized it didn't matter if we had seven or seven hundred members. This experience taught me to persevere through adversity and helped us understand that this journey would be long and that adversity would become our best friend."


 

Transforming Music Education: Key Programs and Initiatives


Jacques reflects on how Legacy has contributed to his personal growth: "Legacy has given me a home where I can express myself and grow as an individual. It has also pushed me to become a better person, knowing that I have so many young individuals following in my footsteps. Additionally, my role with Legacy has helped me develop and refine my leadership skills. It has allowed me to apply the lessons learned both within the organization and in my role as a full-time manager, making my leadership approach more adaptable and effective in different environments. This blend of experiences has been key in transforming music education within our community."


 


From left to right, Matthew Torres, Jacques Bernard, his son Jayden, and Rafael Sotolongo stand on the court which Jacques addresses the crowd


 

Future Plans and Projects


Looking ahead, Jacques shares his excitement about upcoming projects: "I'm really excited about Legacy Percussion coming out for its first competitive season. I look forward to seeing what we're able to produce and witnessing the growth of that side of Legacy Production Company. This new venture is a significant milestone for us, and I believe it will showcase the talent and dedication of our members, further solidifying our presence in the competitive scene."


 

Advice and Inspiration


To those looking to start their own organization in the arts, Jacques advises: "Make sure it's not about you. Be ready and prepared to be giving and to continuously be giving. Building an organization in the arts requires a selfless dedication to your mission and the people you serve. Have a deep understanding that it's a marathon and not a sprint. It takes a long time for things to come to fruition, so patience is key. Success doesn't happen overnight, and being persistent and resilient through challenges is crucial. Focus on creating a community and providing value to others, and the rewards will follow."


 

A Message to Prospective Members and Supporters


Jacques concludes with an invitation: "We pride ourselves on being transparent and open. Joining Legacy is a decision you won’t regret; in fact, it could be one of the best decisions you make. I encourage you to explore our organization in depth. I am confident that you will be drawn to our vibrant community. Our commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment ensures that every member feels valued, inspired, and part of something truly special."


 

Final scene from the Winds show "Olympus" where Hera is attacked by Amphitrite to win the thrown

 

We hope you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Jacques Bernard. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and behind-the-scenes content in our "Off The Floor" series, showcasing the passion and dedication that drive Legacy Production Company.

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