Aalyah Duncan

Aalyah Duncan is a multi-talented professional, achieving two degrees in music, former consultant for clients in the arts and music industry, and recently an ESL educator in East Asia and Europe. A native of Philadelphia, after receiving her Masters in Arts Administration from Florida State University, Aalyah began her professional career in Atlanta, working in marketing at the Woodruff Arts Center’s High Museum of Art. While at the museum, she managed the prestigious Friday Jazz concert series, where she worked with international jazz musicians Ike Stubblefield, Steve Dancz, Kevin Bales, Julie Dexter, Joe Gransden, and Takana Miyamoto.

After working in the nonprofit sector, Aalyah formed her public relations boutique agency “Alist & Co., LLC”, which provided public relations and marketing services for clients in the arts and music industries. She has worked with Najee, Herbie Hancock, Philip Bailey, Earth, Wind, & Fire, Lalah Hathaway, Incognito, Will Downing, Kenny Lattimore, Dave Koz, Kamasi Washington, José James, The Brand New Heavies, Christian McBride and icon Chaka Khan, to name a few. Aalyah also expanded her network into the political sector, serving as Communications Director for former Councilmember Derek Green – City Council At-Large race; which resulted in two victories for the 2015 and 2019 general elections in Philadelphia, PA. In addition to politics, she also spearheaded Philly Culture United, an action campaign formed to support the prioritization of Philadelphia’s thriving arts and culture economy during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Recently, Aalyah has become a TEFL-certified ESL Teacher, inspiring and teaching students internationally in South Korea and Spain. She has been recognized as Teacher of the Month for her hard work and commitment to her students. Aside from teaching, Aalyah enjoys traveling, yoga, hiking, music, and genuine conversation. 

Aalyah is a graduate of the University of North Florida, with a Baccalaureate of Arts degree in Music. Following the completion of her undergraduate degree, Aalyah received her Masters of Arts, in Arts Administration through the College of Music, at Florida State University. She served as mentor for the Big Brother Big Sister program, and served on the boards of Musicopia and Dancing Classrooms Philly and the Recording Academy Philadelphia Grammy Chapter. In 2018, Aalyah was recognized by The Philadelphia Tribune, Most Influential 10 Under 40 To Watch’. Aalyah also received an inaugural award for Media Professional of The Year, by NABJ – Philadelphia Chapter (PABJ), and named as one of the top PR professionals, ‘Who’s Next In Communications 2017’ by BillyPenn publication.