Andrew T. Ladd is the Founder and Executive Director of The Cadence Project, bringing over 15 years of experience in music education and a deep commitment to ensuring equal access to musical opportunities for all talented students. Andrew's journey in music began at an early age when he joined his school band program. As a student in the Mississippi Lions All-State Band, he experienced firsthand the transformative power of high-level musical experiences. This opportunity opened doors to scholarships, mentorships, and eventually a career in music education. After earning his Bachelor's degree in Music Education from the University of Southern Mississippi and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Mississippi State University, Andrew dedicated his career to teaching music in public schools across Mississippi. During his tenure as a band director, he consistently witnessed how financial barriers prevented many of his most talented students from participating in life-changing musical opportunities. In 2025, Andrew founded The Cadence Project with a mission to remove these financial barriers and create a sustainable model for connecting talented young musicians with community sponsors. His vision was simple but powerful: ensure that merit—not money—determines who accesses transformative musical experiences. Andrew has been recognized with numerous awards for his contributions to music education, including the Mississippi Music Educators Association's Outstanding Director Award and the Mississippi Bandmasters Association's Citation of Excellence. He regularly presents at music education conferences on topics related to equity and access in music education. Beyond his work with The Cadence Project, Andrew remains an active musician, performing with community ensembles and serving as a clinician and adjudicator for band festivals throughout the Southeast. He believes deeply in the power of music to transform lives and communities, and he is dedicated to ensuring that this power is accessible to all talented young musicians, regardless of their financial circumstances.
Education
- Bachelor of Music Education, Delta State University