Commontime Online

Connecting a world of teaching artists to the learners who need them. A world in sync where different cultures create real arts connections in a virtual space. What and Who: CommonTime is an online platform that provides global access to the arts. It connects teaching artists to students and educators; private arts teachers to individual learners; and arts organizations to educational institutions. It also offers team building through the arts to other organizations and businesses. How: CommonTime provides a stable platform for vetted artists who have experience working with educators and students to offer their expertise directly into classrooms, lecture halls, performance spaces, conferences, and more. It is not free. Artists indicate their skillset and availability, and interested clients (arts programs, educational institutions, etc.) can then communicate with the artists and book them without leaving the platform. Why: CommonTime promotes engagement and appreciation of the arts, and highlights the economic and cultural value of artists and arts education. Moving instruction and interaction online saves on logistics, expenses, and carbon footprint. And it is inclusive. At the moment, only well-funded schools can afford to bring in artists to educate their students. With CommonTime, a publicly-funded school in Thuringia can call up a world-renowned Tabla player from his home in Boston. The school simply pays his hourly or daily rate, and then there he is, speaking one-on-one with that school’s World Music choir and aspiring percussionists. This model is sustainable and valuable beyond COVID-19. It's Unique: Currently, these offerings are not easily found on a single platform or website. CommonTime is uniquely able to provide a centralized, stable, and peer-reviewed platform for both individuals and institutions seeking artist support and inspiration.