I am a creative and strategic arts educator and community programs leader with 7+ years of experience teaching, designing, and managing arts-based programs for learners of all ages. I design inclusive, high-impact learning experiences that center access, imagination, and community. I collaborate across disciplines to blend performance, writing, and visual art into engaging curricula and hands-on projects that empower students and communities. I specialize in healing-centered, equity-driven education, facilitating workshops that explore identity, power, and civic engagement through performance. I lead cross-functional teams, build partnerships with advocacy and arts organizations, and develop digital and hybrid learning experiences that expand access and deepen creative expression.

Desiree Bannister

I am a creative and strategic arts educator and community programs leader with 7+ years of experience teaching, designing, and managing arts-based programs for learners of all ages. I design inclusive, high-impact learning experiences that center access, imagination, and community. I collaborate across disciplines to blend performance, writing, and visual art into engaging curricula and hands-on projects that empower students and communities. I specialize in healing-centered, equity-driven education, facilitating workshops that explore identity, power, and civic engagement through performance. I lead cross-functional teams, build partnerships with advocacy and arts organizations, and develop digital and hybrid learning experiences that expand access and deepen creative expression.

Available to hire

I am a creative and strategic arts educator and community programs leader with 7+ years of experience teaching, designing, and managing arts-based programs for learners of all ages. I design inclusive, high-impact learning experiences that center access, imagination, and community. I collaborate across disciplines to blend performance, writing, and visual art into engaging curricula and hands-on projects that empower students and communities.
I specialize in healing-centered, equity-driven education, facilitating workshops that explore identity, power, and civic engagement through performance. I lead cross-functional teams, build partnerships with advocacy and arts organizations, and develop digital and hybrid learning experiences that expand access and deepen creative expression.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Private Voice & Piano Teacher at The Modern Music Academy
January 1, 2023 - Present
Designed weekly arts activism curriculum with clear performance milestones for girls and gender-expansive youth. Created healing-centered, equity-driven, visually engaging presentations and lessons. Facilitated workshops exploring identity, power, and civic engagement, confidence, and critical thought through performance, and deepening self-expression with peer dialogue. Designed cross-disciplinary workshops blending performance, writing, and visual prompts—directly aligned with GBH’s community arts ethos.
Teaching Artist & Curriculum Designer at Girl Be Heard
January 1, 2023 - January 1, 2024
Coordinated Pre K–12 partnerships, serving as the primary liaison between teachers, school administrators, and museum educators. Assisted in curriculum development aligned with exhibitions and classroom learning standards. Organized and facilitated educator programs, PD workshops, and school events. Led inquiry-based tours for students and families. Collaborated across departments to produce digital/print resources, promotional materials, and program communications.
Education Associate at Montclair Art Museum
January 1, 2023 - January 1, 2023
Produced and co-hosted a culture and music podcast; wrote, scripted, edited, and managed visual/ branding assets. Supported small creative businesses with storytelling, product development, and content planning.
Podcast Host + Creative Projects at Remote Career Development
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2023
Created The People's Rent Party, a live performance series blending music, storytelling, and social justice activism. Raised $18K+ for Black trans women and domestic workers through digital fundraising and performance events. Engaged 500+ attendees and built long-term partnerships with advocacy groups and grassroots organizations.
Artist-in-Residence at Community Justice Project
January 1, 2020 - January 1, 2020
Managed multi-site arts mentorship programs serving hundreds of youth across underserved communities. Acted as organizational representative for the organization’s first $1M grant, ensuring compliance, reporting, and successful implementation. Oversaw data collection and impact evaluation to drive future grant funding and long-term strategy. Coordinated logistics, staff, and artist schedules for live, virtual, and hybrid music education events and showcases. Strengthened community partners and school relationships to expand program reach and visibility.
Program Manager at Guitars Over Guns
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2020
Creative and strategic education leader with responsibilities in building arts education programs, partnerships, and youth-focused initiatives across the Miami area.
Producer, Researcher, Co-Host at Politics of Pleasure Podcast
January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2022
Produced live events like The People’s Rent Party blending music, storytelling, and social justice activism; raised $18K+ for Black transgender and domestic workers; engaged 500+ attendees; developed partnerships with advocacy groups and grassroots organizations.
Teacher Training Lead + Regional Music Video at Go-Go
January 1, 2019 - December 31, 2020
Led arts and voice education; designed curriculum and workshop content; coordinated teacher training and produced a regional music video project; expanded digital/hybrid instruction and community partnerships.
Podcaster (Host) + Creative Projects at Remote Career Development
January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2023
Hosted and produced podcast content and creative projects, collaborating with partners on community-facing media and initiatives.

Education

Master of Arts in Arts Administration and Live Entertainment Management at University of Miami
January 11, 2030 - December 18, 2025
Bachelor of Music; Studio Music and Jazz – Vocal Performance; Minor: Music Business and Entertainment Industries at University of Miami
January 11, 2030 - December 18, 2025
Master of Arts in Arts Administration and Live Entertainment Management at University of Miami
January 11, 2030 - December 18, 2025
Bachelor of Music in Studio Music and Jazz – Vocal Performance; Minor: Music Business and Entertainment Industries at University of Miami
January 11, 2030 - December 18, 2025

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Software & Internet
    paper Desiree Jaha Work Sample
    A PDF showcasing the recent work samples under my Artist name, Desiree Jaha https://www.twine.net/signin