Our Mission

Connecting Artists with Their Perfect Match

We've built Ascend to solve a persistent challenge in the performing arts: finding the right instructor to elevate your skills or the ideal students to share your expertise.

Our Vision

Ascend aims to democratize access to high-quality arts education while creating sustainable income opportunities for artists and instructors.

Perfect Matches

Our AI technology creates meaningful connections between students and instructors based on teaching style, learning preferences, and specific goals.

Global Access

We break down geographical barriers, allowing students to learn from world-class instructors regardless of their location.

Economic Opportunity

We create new revenue streams for artists, helping them monetize their expertise and build sustainable careers in the arts.

Our Journey

Building the future of performing arts education

2023

The Vision Takes Shape

Our journey began when Saffron and Maria recognized a persistent gap in performing arts education: the challenge of connecting students with the right instructors to advance their skills.

Spring 2023

Concept Development

We developed our AI matching algorithm, designed to pair students with instructors based on teaching style, learning preferences, and specific artistic goals.

Fall 2024

USC Marshall Incubator

We were selected for the prestigious USC Marshall Greif Incubator program, gaining access to mentorship and resources to accelerate our growth and expansion plans.

USC Marshall Incubator
Winter 2024

EdTech Recognition

We achieved 2nd place in Publicize's Global Connect EdTech Pitch Competition, showcasing our innovative approach to performing arts education and AI-driven matching.

The Journey Continues

Join us as we continue to transform arts education and build a community where artists thrive.

The Founders

Meet Our Team

We bring together expertise in performing arts, technology, and business to create the perfect platform for artists and instructors.

Saffron Quinn

Saffron Quinn

Co-founder / CTO

Theater director with off-Broadway experience and a background in Stanford-based startups. Saffron combines artistic insight with technical expertise to build Ascend's AI matching technology.

Expertise

Performing ArtsTech DevelopmentAI Integration
Maria Williams

Maria Williams

Co-founder / CMO

USC Computational Neuroscience major and accomplished dancer with connections to the nation's top performers. Maria brings her analytical background and arts network to drive Ascend's growth.

Expertise

DanceComputational NeuroscienceMarket Strategy

Join Us in Transforming Arts Education

Whether you're a student seeking the perfect instructor or a teacher looking to connect with ideal students, Ascend is building the community for you.