Our Story

Our Mission

Iris Music Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, reimagines residential and healthcare communities as spaces of creative exchange. Through collaboratively designed programming, Iris Music Project provides opportunities for connection and purpose for residents, caregivers, and musicians.

Our Model

IMP translates the concept of an Ensemble-in-Residence, commonly used by universities and arts institutions, for healthcare communities.

It places ensembles of professional musicians into healthcare settings for long-term projects created together with community members. First, musicians develop relationships with residents to determine the programming needs of the community as a whole. Then, using the strengths and talents of each participant, they develop programming that is unique to each community. Some residents work directly with musicians designing programs, while others participate as rehearsal directors, program presenters, lyricists, performers, or simply audience members. Through this approach, IMP inspires creative partnerships between community members and musicians, giving participants agency to pursue new directions in their lives.

Our Name

The inspiration for Iris Music Project comes from multiple sources that are reflected in our name.

First, it is a tribute to Founder Lauren Latessa’s Mom, Patricia Thoman Latessa, who died in March of 2020. Patricia lived with cancer for over twenty-four years and was a remarkable example of resilience, perseverance and living with hope despite grim realities. All of these principles impact the Iris Music Project in profound ways. One of the things Patricia loved was gardening and she had beautiful gardens all over her property. The image of the iris is a tribute to her and her gardens.

Second,​ i​n Greek mythology, Iris is the personification of the rainbow and the messenger goddess, connecting heaven and earth. The image of music connecting heaven and earth resonates throughout all aspects of the Iris Music Project.