I recently got evidence that the School is known literally around the world, that the work of our volunteers, staff, board and kids is talked about and acted upon by people 8,500 miles away in another hemisphere on another continent.

I was contacted by a young woman from Johannesburg, South Africa, Kelly Grevler, who, inspired by the work we do here, is starting a program to teach inner-city girls guitar for free. We set up a Skype session and connected via internet video. I gave her advice on starting a nonprofit, getting the programming right, finding support, etc. She is smart, motivated, and has momentum. Best of all, lots of deserving young people will be boosted by the art and discipline of music, just like they are here.

It’s easy to imagine Kelly getting up to speed in the coming years and one day experiencing the excitement and swirl of activity like we encounter this time of year at the Joy of Music School. We finished our spring cleaning before spring break. Our students and teachers are perfecting audition pieces the kids will play at the spring recital on May 11, if they win a spot. Numerous grant applications are either pending or are in late stages of preparation. Planning for summer programs is in full swing. Plus, the normal operations of the school continue, like fund raising, administrative work, program development, strategic planning, committee meetings, and responding to opportunities that pop up.

Oh, yes, and our graduating seniors are winding down their last year here. One of them is Kristen Thames, who recently was accepted to the University of Tennessee School of Music. She’s also our student representative on our board of directors. We wish her the best in her college career, and will be tracking her progress. Another senior, Shashawna Southall, violin, will be attending Johnson University. Pianist Peter Garlington will be attending UT, with a minor in music. Samuel Feier, guitarist, is also graduating high school and plans to study engineering at Pellissippi State Community College. As they embark on their futures and look out on the world—the whole world—I wish them all the wisdom, relevance, and joy that music brings. Sincerely,

Francis Graffeo, Executive Director

  See more articles from the April 2013 newsletter. Click here.