Fall 2016 Youth Music Academy
This month, Jazzanooga is kicking off two music education programs: The Youth Music Academy and The Chattanooga Music Educator Spotlight Series.
Jazzanooga’s Youth Music Academy began in 2014 and is a music education and performance program provided free of charge to underserved youth, ages 12-18 Youth in the Hamilton County school system with little or no access to the arts are encouraged to apply. Since its inception, the academy has expanded to a year round program, and even provides music scholarships to participating students headed to college.
Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2016 Youth Music Academy. To complete an application, go to Jazzanooga website, www.jazzanooga.org.
“We are seeking creative ways to elevate the overall learning experience for your youth," said Shane Morrow, director of Jazzanooga. “I strongly believe that music and arts education is a profound and necessary element which contributes greatly to a child’s development. I’m a product of music education, and forever grateful that my family encouraged my artistic pursuits. It allowed me to discover and develop so many crucial life building skills that I use today.”
Concerned that music programs in public schools have been dramatically curtailed, Jazzanooga is also raising more awareness of Chattanooga’s music educators with a live performance series featuring local music educators.
Music Educator Spotlight Performance: Neshawn Calloway - On Saturday, Aug. 27, at Jazzanooga Arts Space, the first installment of the Chattanooga Music Educator Spotlight Series will feature Chattanooga High School Center for Creative Arts Vocal music director, Neshawn Calloway. Calloway has taught for the Hamilton County School System for 15 years and has also traveled to Chattanooga’s sister city, Hamm Germany to perform a sold out concert featuring jazz and the music of Chattanooga’s blues legend, Bessie Smith.
“Chattanooga is filled with an array of performers," said Ms. Calloway. "For every performer there was a teacher/mentor that played a fundamental role in defining their techniques and talents; by creating a quarterly teacher appreciation event, we place light on their work and help raise funds for their music programs.”
For more information, please go to Jazzanooga’s website, www.jazzanooga.org, like Jazzanooga on Facebook, or follow @jazzanooga on Twitter and Instagram.
Neshawn Calloway