Young Musicians Unite by The Story Room

GIVING STUDENTS A VOICE THROUGH MUSIC

OUR MISSION

Yo un g Musi cians Un ite p rovi des fre e, co nsis te nt

musi c p ro gr ammin g to un de rs e r ve d co mmunit i es in Miami . Through p e e r to p e e r m e nto rin g, YM U e n gag es s tude nt s of dif fe re nt b ackgroun ds an d b rin gs t h e m to g et h e r t hro ugh a share d p a s si o n fo r musi c . By coll ab o r at in g wit h s ch o ol s to b rin g musi c p ro gr amm in g to s tude nt s, YM U addres s es

O T S WHAT WE DO

e duc at i o n gaps to develo p leade rs, b o os t p e rs o n al develo p m e nt an d insp ire s elf- co nf i de n ce.

U n de r t h e leade rship of S ammy G o nzalez,

YM U e n gag es yout h from at-risk co mmunit i es an d p rovi des them

with

comprehensive

music

programming.

Students

FUTURE & GROWTH

We are

excited about the future of Young Musicians Unite and our upcoming 2018-2019 school year. YMU will be expanding enrollment from 240+ to 450+ students, creating more days of programming and expanding into Miami

O V E R 4 80+ S T UDE N T S SE R V E D

Edison

Little

Haiti and Beacon College

Prep

Opa-Locka. Sammy Gonzalez has recently been

named Artistic Director of the Miami Beach Senior High Rock Ensemble, founded in p ar t i cip at in g in YM U jo in a guit ar e ns e mble, ja z z e ns e mble/ c o m b o, ro c k e n s e m b l e o r d r u m l i n e . Y M U c u r re n t ly o f fe r s 1 2 m u s i c p ro g r a m s a t 5 d i f fe re n t s i t e s ; e x p a n d i n g e n ro l l m e n t f ro m 8 5 to 2 4 0 + s tu d e nt s t h i s p a s t 2017-2018

s c h o o l y e a r.

Cl a s s es are le d by p rofes si onal te ach e rs fro m N ew Wo rld S ch o ol of t h e A r t s , U M, FI U & Juil l i ard . Pe e r to p e e r m e nto rs an d visit in g gues t musi ci ans p rovi de sup ple m e nt al a i d . W it h o ut exce pt i o n,

1972 by the legendary Doug Burris. As a student of Mr. Burris, Sammy looks forward to growing the ensemble and carrying the program under the YMU umbrella. YMU will also be launching a Youth Jazz Series at the Wynwood Yard starting in September, every third Saturday of the month, 430-630P.

al l of t h e e quip m e nt, musi c, p e r fo rman ce an d teachin g fe es are w a i ve d fo r o u r s t u d e n t s .

ON THE COVER Nicholas Gelin, Kyle Tennyson & Patrick Johnson

PHOTO Jorge Martinez Gualdron

ARTIST Amaranta Martinez & Unconventional Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

LETTER PRESIDENT

F R OM OUR

As leader of Young Musicians Unite, I am often astonished by our students’ personal and musical growth throughout the school year. Learning an instrument is a difficult task that requires time, patience, discipline and an awareness of self and others. Over the years I have witnessed students grow from class bullies to confident leaders; from troubled and withdrawn to happy and well-adjusted, with a new sense of purpose. Young Musicians Unite has developed a reputation for exceptional performing ensembles. Many of our students excel and benefit from our advanced programming and are afforded opportunities that would otherwise not be available to them. Students have studied with New World Symphony Fellows, accelerated into New World School of the Arts and have received full college music scholarships. Our mentors are amongst some of the best musicians in Miami and YMU bands and ensembles consistently perform in 3-6 shows a month. While I understand that most of our students are just passing through and might never pick up an instrument again, there is a growth and development in each of our students that takes place from day one to the end of the school year. The change is notable and I often hear from parents on how the personal drive to play an instrument and perform has opened up their child in ways they never imagined. Over the years parents have shared with me that their children are more confident, have better study habits, perform better in school, have better coping skills, and are better behaved. They thank me for helping their children develop skills

Photo by Gesi Schilling

SAMMY GONZALEZ

and mindsets that will help them transition into the next stage of their lives. YMU offers a needed consistency that is frequently lacking in our children’s lives, particularly the at-risk youth that are YMU’s focus. A reinforcement of positive values and support for their daily needs. Personally, growing up in a single-parent home with two brothers and limited resources, I was very fortunate to have access to free music programming. I slowly grew from a troubled kid and a learning-disabled student, into a musician, sectional leader and top student in my class. Music changed my life and molded me into who I am today. Yet, music would have never been an option if my mother had to pay for lessons. The mentors, friends, life skills and a place to truly belong would have never been realized. I am a strong advocate for all students, especially our at-risk youth, having the opportunity to access high quality, free music education and instruments. Music truly is a great uniter and the ultimate equalizer. We have worked hard on bringing students together of all different backgrounds over the years to work side by side, and it has been a beautiful success. I am honored and privileged to work with such amazingly talented students, musicians, staff and partners in our community. I sincerely thank everyone who has helped in our mission and I can truly state that our students are not the only lives being changed at YMU. As mentors we learn and grow with our students. I am awed and humbled by them more and more every day. Sammy Gonzalez President/CEO/Co-Founder

“ Pe rs onal ly, growin g up in a sin gle -p are nt h o m e wit h t wo b rot h e rs an d l imite d res o urces, I was very fortunate to have access to free music programming. I slowly grew from a troubled kid and a learning-disabled student, into a musician, sectional leader and top student in my class.” 4

YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

CONTENT

PAGE 06

STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS

PAGE 11

YMU BOARD MEMBERS

PAGE 13

YOUTH BANDS

PAGE 14

TEAM

PAGE 19

SCHOOL BANDS & PROGRAMS

PAGE 24

TESTIMONIALS

PAGE 26

MILESTONES

PAGE 28

QUOTES Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

s t h g i l h g i H MEET t en

Stud

THE S TA R S

GABRIEL JOHNSON 13 YEARS OLD

YOUNG MEN’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY TRUMPET • 8TH GRADE

BILLY MCCRAY 15 YEARS OLD

YOUNG MEN’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY

I started playing with YMU at the end of my 7th grade year. Even though I was a beginner Sammy allowed me to play in the jazz combo. When I joined the ensemble, Sammy pushed me to play better and he would kick me out of practices for everything from forgetting my music to not practicing before rehearsal. As harsh as that seemed at the time, this helped me to grow and mature into my 8th grade year. I’m proud to say that I am now lead trumpet player of the combo and was recently accepted to the Superintendent’s Honor Jazz Band as 4th Trumpet. Playing music in YMU has helped me so much and has given me opportunities to play my trumpet and that means the world to me. Playing the trumpet allows me to express myself through music and share wonderful stories with my instrument. Our jazz combo had the opportunity to play a show at New World Symphony and New World Symphony Fellow Aaron Norland asked if I would like to take lessons. This is the best thing that has happened since I’ve been a part of YMU. Another amazing mentor in my life is Jean Caze. Our jazz combo is now led by Mr. Caze and having the chance to learn from him and show him that I can really focus means a lot to me. I am so happy that I get to play his original song “Sparks” and I hope I have made him proud. Thank you YMU for the great opportunities. Thank you to all the teachers I have met in YMU. Thank you for spending your time with me and everyone else. 6

YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

PIANO • 9TH GRADE

I remember the first time I ever played in front of a crowd. I practiced the song at least a million times but I was completely nervous. When it was time for me to play, I messed up and couldn’t play the right notes because my fingers were shaking. The crowd gave me a pitiful applause and when I left the stage I was greeted by Sammy and he told me that he could help me out and make a me a better player. I didn’t believe him, I was ready to quit playing and I reluctantly said yes. That was almost 2 years ago. Now, I’m playing at venues all over the city for 100’s of people. Playing an instrument has introduced me to other musicians in the community and has taught me how to be prepared for any situation thrown my way. The piano has given me a chance to show my friends, family and the world skills and abilities I would’ve never knew I had if it weren’t for Young Musicians Unite. I would like to thank Young Musicians Unite, Sammy Gonzalez, Jean Caze, and everyone else who was able to help me further myself musically and mentally.

TIFFANY ORTIZ

18 YEARS OLD

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON SENIOR HIGH GUITAR • 12TH GRADE

I picked up the guitar for the first time in 2017 through Young Musicians Unite. Playing the guitar has brought me so much joy. I’ve always wanted to learn how to play and this was one of my wishes that came true. I’m a very busy student and I am usually stressed about schoolwork and my internship. When I’m in band class and I’m playing this beautiful instrument, I get so happy and my mind becomes clear and I’m only focusing on each strum instead of what I need to do an hour from now. When I take the guitar home and practice, it gives me the same feeling. I feel so peaceful. I’m a writer and I tend to write these songs and the exact beat comes to me and I want to reach that level of skill on the guitar in order to create these songs. I would like to thank Young Musicians Unite for helping making this opportunity available to me. I would also like to give a huge thank you to Juan for taking the time and having the ultimate patience to teach me and everyone in my group how to play. He has a great personally and is very talented guitar player. Juan is very passionate about mentoring us and I appreciate that.

ABEL RUBIO

16 YEARS OLD MIAMI EDISON HIGH SCHOOL BASS • 9TH GRADE

I was always interested in playing the bass and haven’t had the opportunity until YMU came to our school. I started in January, and it has been a positive change in my life. I get to learn more about the musical world by understanding how to play an instrument. Playing the bass gives me a chance to express my feelings inside my mind and release my expressions through the instrument. I give thanks to YMU and my instructors for their time and patience.

JOSE LARA

13 YEARS OLD JOSE DE DIEGO MIDDLE SCHOOL GUITAR & BASS • 8TH GRADE

Playing a instrument is something that I could have never done alone and I want to thank Young Musicians Unite for taking me under their wing. I look forward to our after-school rock rehearsals when we get together, practice and help each other with different songs. When we get together I feel like if we are family. I love playing the bass guitar and electric guitar. Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

DAVE DESMARETS 17 YEARS OLD

MEET THE STARS

THE YOUNG MEN’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY PIANO • 11TH GRADE

ANA CHAZZANES 16 YEARS OLD

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL BASS • 11TH GRADE

When I started playing with Young Musicians Unite this school year, I didn’t even know how to hold the bass until Sammy and Juan showed me. They we’re always patient with me even whenever I get a little out of hand. Of course there will be a lot of improving because I am still learning, but now I can show off that I can play the bass guitar. I was so proud of our last performance. I got to play the bass and sing at the same time. All my friends were in the audience and they were telling me how good I sounded. It was so fun! Playing the bass means that I can be jazzy, little bit of rocky and that mixes in with who I am. I would like to thank Young Musicians Unite, Sammy and Juan for teaching me and maturing me in the bass and as a person. I started playing with Young Musicians Unite in the beginning of my junior year. I chose to play the piano. I knew nothing about the instrument when I started but I consider myself pretty adequate at it now. Sammy pushed me to become lead singer of the Overtown Rock Ensemble and I’m so grateful for that. I’ve had experience singing but YMU has put a new light on my talent and now both of these instruments are an escape from my busy school life. Along side with being in the ensemble I get to perform! My favorite performance so far was at The Wynwood Yard. This was my very first performance singing lead in front of a crowd and even though I was nervous out of my mind, I really enjoyed it and I hope for more experiences like that. Thanks, Alan, Sammy and Young Musicians Unite for mentoring me throughout the year.

YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

DANIEL NARVAEZ

14 YEARS OLD

18 YEARS OLD

JOSE DE DIEGO MIDDLE SCHOOL

CORAL GABLES SENIOR HIGH

BASS DRUM • 8TH GRADE

ALTO SAXOPHONE • 12TH GRADE

I started playing with Young Musicians Unite since the last school year. I remember when my middle school had no music program and I am thankful that I can play drums with my friends after school, and it’s all because of Young Musicians Unite. Playing Bass Drum is awesome and it means a lot to me because I get to perform for my friends. I feel on top of the world after I do that. I hope Young Musicians Unite is at my future high school. I want to be able to help other new drummers and I am learning how to do that now at Jose De Diego. Thank you, Mr. Rodriguez, for always helping me during practice and for making me a better drummer.

I would like to thank Young Musicians Unite for allowing to be part of the program and helping me improve my knowledge for music and my passion for jazz. I would like to thank Dr. Nero for his hard work and dedication he has for us and the passion he has for music. Dr. Javier Nero has changed my perspective on how I view music. I’m internally grateful for his teachings and guiding me through his lessons and how impactful playing an instrument can be. It is a honor to play along side him.

STUDENT HIGHLIGHTS

DERLYSON FONTAINE

Playing an instrument for me means that I can have an instrument where I can express my feelings. For instance I love improvising over blues songs whenever I feel upset or I improvise over Hispanic rhythms whenever I feel excited. Without the alto saxophone I don’t know where I would be right now. Thank You YMU!

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

YMU FAMILIES THE MILLER FAMILY

THE STRAUSS FAMILY

THE ALEMAN FAMILY

THE MATLICK FAMILY

THE SCHWARTZ FAMILY

THE HUDSON FAMILY

THE GANS FAMILY

THE GREENWALD FAMILY

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Spring 2018

YMU BOARD MEMBERS Sammy Gonzalez

Virginia Akar

President/CEO, Co-Founder

Executive Director, Co-Founder Attorney at Law & Human Rights Advocate President of Strong Girls

Jamie Rosenberg CEO at ClassWallet

Jeffrey Miller

Jose B. Aleman Managing Partner at Meridian Partners

Miller Family Foundation

Paul Lehr

Leslie Zigel

CEO of GroundUp Music

Chair of Greenspoon Marder’s Entertainment, Media & Technology Industry Group

Cary Zel

Antoinette Zel CEO & Co-Founder of The Story Room

Michael Schwartz

President & Co-Founder of ProCirc

Frankie Trullenque Telemedia

The Genuine Hospitality Group

Ines Rivero

Stephen Gans

Techo

Gans Family Investments LLP

Lisa Rosenberg

Doris Maya Caridad Center Grant Writer

Grants

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

SOUTHERN GLAZER’S WINE & SPIRITS IS A PROUD SUPPORTER OF YOUNG MUSICIANS UNITE

SOUTHERNGLAZERS.COM

MIAMI HEAT PROUDLY SUPPORTS YOUNG MUSICIANS UNITE

Our partnership with youth bands Arrowhead, Ripcord & Avalanche is a driving force behind YMU. These middle & high school musicians take the time to play side by side shows with our students, raise funds through performances and help with peer to peer mentoring in our after-school programs. They are truly the engines behind YMU.

Harry Schwartz, Adam Chopp, Eliza Greenwald, Arya Chatani, Sydney Greenwald, Levi Gans.

Ivy Rosenberg, Sierra Hudson, Jake Aleman, Harrison Matlick, Lily Kaplan.

Maia Mora, Noah Billante, James Gerrard, Danny Sauceda, Samson Bienstock.

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

Vanya Allen

MEET OUR TEAM

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Sammy Gonzalez PRESIDENT/CEO/CO-FOUNDER Sammy Gonzalez is one of Miami’s most established musicians and a staple in the local music scene. Since playing his first guitar concert at ten years old, he grew to become an accomplished Classical Guitarist, and bassist for Jacobs Ladder, a nationally recognized rock band . As a musician, Sammy has played nearly 1,000+ concerts, gone on 15 US tours, and landed spots at SXSW music festival, Van’s Warped Tour, and national Film Festivals. Sammy owns and operates The Bull Productions, in Miami, where he produces, records, and mixes artists from all genres and backgrounds. As First Chair in the Miami Beach Classical Guitar Quintet, Sammy toured the U.S. and Japan, winning awards both at regional and national levels. Sammy graduated New World School of the Arts/ University of Florida, studying under Professor Albert Kunze. Sammy has also studied with Rafael Padron (UM), Professor Bruce (FSU) & Adam Holzman (UT) and Kevin Gallagher (the first American to win the prestigious Francisco Tarrega Contest). He has also studied in Master Classes with David Russell, The Assad Brothers, Xufei Yang, LAGQ, & Andrew York. Sammy is President/CEO & Co-Founder of the non-profit Young Musicians Unite. Since 2013, Young Musicians Unite (YMU) has been dedicated to providing free in-school and after school music programs to South Florida’s youth. Under the leadership of Sammy Gonzalez, YMU has serviced 450+ students over the last few years. As an educator Sammy has been teaching since 2004. His students have gone on to schools such as New World School of the Arts, Harvard, NYU, Georgetown, Cornell, and Penn State. Many of his students have attended All State and have received a wide range of music awards.

YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

Vanya Allen is an Arts Administrator, performance artist and educator from West Palm Beach, Florida. Vanya is a graduate of Dreyfoos School of the Arts. For over 15 years she has used art as a means of self-expression, communicating culture and uplifting young people. In addition to her work as a performance artist and choreographer, Vanya uses her voice, and auditory skills in African-American English (AAE), African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) for community and identity building, organizing, and activism. Vanya served as Artistic Director of The Overtown Youth Center for 2 years and will serve as the Artistic Director of Young Musicians Unite this coming school 2018-2019 school. “The process of learning to play an instrument, work with an ensemble and perform for others is a process that links to the pivotal development of young people who will grow into thoughtful and productive adults. The social dynamics and intellectual askings required to do this work are ones that impact our students across the board in positive ways. Young Musicians Unite creates safe spaces for students to learn, express and present music. They are exposed to both front and backend operations of the music industry; giving them insight into the many avenues available for them to work in their futures while being groomed to be professionals in the present day.”

Jean Caze DIRECTOR OF JAZZ PROGRAMMING Nationally recognized Jazz Trumpeter, Artist, Educator, Composer, Producer, and bandleader of Amédé. Jean completed his undergraduate studies in Jazz/Commercial Music performance from the Manhattan School of Music, and earned his Masters Degree from Florida International University. As a performer, he also doubles on the Flugelhorn, and the Conch Shell. “I consider working with YMU students a true honor and privilege. I know first hand, the power of music education. As an immigrant child brought up in a single parent household, music led me to meet educators who helped fill that void by serving as role models. Music education also provided me with opportunities to grow, travel, and further my education on full scholarships. As I got older, I noticed that I was able to apply lessons I learned through music into my personal life. My approach to teaching is to get my students ready for life as an adult, whether they decide to pursue music professionally or not. It’s a joy watching these young students develop, knowing that I am giving them tools to be successful.”

Alan Valladares

DIRECTOR OF GUITAR PROGRAMMING Alan Valladares is currently studying for his masters in classical guitar performance under Mr. Rafael Padron at the University of Miami. By the age of 17, Alan started to take private classical guitar lessons with Dr. Federico Bonacossa, and by age 19 he was fully admitted to study Classical guitar performance at New World School of the Arts. Alan has been a mentor for Young Musicians Unite since 2013 and is an active member and composer for Compositum Musicae Novae. “Since 2013 I’ve had the pleasure to work with Young Musicians Unite and I am proud to see how this organization is developing, growing and reaching the lives of so many students. Seeing the students grow personally and musically is extremely rewarding and through YMU I am able to help them through that process.”

Juan Pelaez

DIRECTOR OF ROCK ENSEMBLE PROGRAMMING Juan Camilo Pelaez is a singer/songwriter and composer with a bachelor’s degree in composition from the New World School of the Arts and an associates degree from the Miami Dade College in jazz guitar and music production. Pelaez has shared his music throughout South Florida at different venues, as well as, reached other countries such as Mexico, Colombia and Puerto Rico. “During my experience at YMU, I had the great opportunity to see these kids grow and enrich their lives just by participating in a musical experience. Music has a life-changing impact on each and every one of them. They learn how to work in a group and understand the potentialities of creating something with their classmates. I am very grateful for being able to have these experiences with these talented kids every day and in the process learning and being inspired by them.”

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

MEET OUR TEAM

Christian Rodriguez

Javier Nero

DIRECTOR OF DRUM LINE PROGRAMMING

JAZZ PROGRAMING

Born and raised in Miami. Christian has been a performing drummer and booking agent for the last 10 years. Recently, he joined YMU to further spread his love of music and music education.

Dr. Javier Nero is a jazz trombonist, composer, and arranger originally from Portland, Oregon.

“Young Musicians Unite has been a growing organization that I have heard much about through the grapevine here in Miami. My favorite point so far is the beautiful and dominant notion that YMU enters a school’s music program and just makes it better. The betterment of the music program translates into a better school, thus creating better students. All of that sounds pretty dang good to me”

Caleb Alcime

DRUMS

I’ve been playing drums since I was 9 years old. Playing genres ranging from jazz to gospel, hip hop, RnB and Latin. Rising through programs such as Young Musicians Unite, I have gained insight on youth development on a personal level. I began playing in YMU as a student for about 3 years from 10th grade until graduation and I have now grown to become a mentor which makes me part of the first generation of YMU. With years of mentors pouring into my life wisdom and skill, the only thing left to do was to mirror what the mentors did for me and pass it on to the next generation. “Though music is a combination of rhythm and melodies, YMU has expanded its definition and made it into a token that is passed from generation to generation.”

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He received his Bachelor of Music degree from the Juilliard School in NYC in 2012, a Master of Music degree in composition/arranging in 2014 at the University of Miami Frost School of Music, and his Doctor of Music Arts (DMA) in jazz/classical performance at UM. Javier currently leads his own bands, performs as a freelance artist, and teaches for Young Musicians Unite at Coral Gables Senior High School. “Young Musicians Unite is a wonderful program that I feel privileged to be a part of. Music is integral to culture, humanity, and emotional intelligence, something we need so much more of right now. This program gives underprivileged youth an outlet to express themselves and make a positive impact on their communities.”

Zach Larmer

Harvel Nakundi

DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING

DRUMS

A jazz musician with roots in funk, soul, and bluegrass, Zach is the recipient of multiple DownBeat awards and is a graduate of the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music. He has appeared on numerous albums and television programs, written for the Steve Miller Band, and shared the stage with artists such as Albert and Jimmy Heath, Mark O’Connor, and Brian Lynch. Currently, Zach’s efforts are centered around his quartet, the Zach Larmer Electric Band.

Born in Miami, Harvel Nakundi was introduced to the drums at the age of 4 through local churches in southern Florida. Since then, Harvel has been able to study, perform, record and tour with world renowned artists including but not limited to: Jennifer Lopez, Emeline Michel, Nicole Henry, Kirk Whalum, Myron Butler, Lewis Nash, Terence Blanchard, Frankie J, James Moody, just to name a few. Harvel has performed at some of the top venues and festivals worldwide including: Russia, Haiti, Japan, Brazil, Argentina, Italy, France, Martinique, and Australia. In addition, Harvel is a member of the award winning gospel band Born2serve. As an educator and humanitarian, Harvel teaches K-12 at schools statewide, assisting in instructional college music courses and has been devoted to help bringing awareness to the arts in the Caribbean.

“I’ve admired Young Musician’s Unite from afar for the past few years, so I feel a great sense of joy to call myself a new member of the team. I’m enjoying the opportunity to witness the awesome transformative power of music and watch these talented young students grow into seasoned and confident musicians.”

Elijah Thomas JAZZ PROGRAMMING Elijah Thomas, Jr. was born in Belle Glade, FL. He started playing the trombone in 1983 and continued his passion for music by continuing to study at Florida A&M University. After graduating from FAMU Mr. Thomas started teaching at Forest Hill High School in West Palm Beach. He is currently the Director of Bands and Orchestra at the Miami Beach Senior High School. “Working with the students of Young Musicians Unite to keep the art form of Jazz alive is very invigorating. It’s a joy seeing the student embrace such a difficult art form.”

Melanie Greenwald COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

Lisa Rosenberg GRANT WRITER

Marcelo Gheiler IT

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

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school bands & programs THE YOUNG MEN’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY 2013 - Present Programs 1-3 Guitar Ensemble, Jazz Band & Drum Line Instructors: Alan Valladares, Jean Caze, Christian Rodriguez & Mr. Neal In 2013, YMU established a guitar ensemble at Young Men’s Preparatory Academy (YMPA). Our small class of 8 students quickly grew to 25 students. In 2014, YMU added a jazz combo, which gave the school’s top music students a unique opportunity to play at an advanced level through our after-school program. In 2015, YMU began working with the school’s jazz band and in 2016, in response to an overwhelming demand from students wanting to play drums, YMU formed its first drum line. YMU currently provides music instruction to 50+ students at YMPA.

GUITAR & DRUMLINE ENSEMBLE

YMU’S JAZZ COMBOS 2014 - Present Programs 4-5 Instructors: Jazz Combo I - Jean Caze Jazz Combo II - Zach Larmer YMU’s impact is undeniable, with several students from its jazz combo successfully earning full scholarships to prestigious music programs including Berklee College of Music & New World School of the Arts, while others have earned opportunities to study with New World Symphony Fellows. Our jazz combo has performed in numerous prestigious venues from The New World Symphony to The Arsht Center, Wynwood Yard, and even performed The National Anthem at The Heat, The North Beach Band Shell and more.

JAZZ COMBO ENSEMBLE Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

school bands & programs BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL 2016 - Present Programs 6-7 Guitar Ensemble & Jazz Band Instructors: Juan Pelaez & Mr. Newbold In 2016, YMU expanded its reach, offering a rhythm section class at Booker T. Washington High School. This ensemble gives students the opportunity to pick up an instrument for the first time and slowly build up to a level where they could eventually participate in the school’s Jazz Band.

GUITAR ENSEMBLE & JAZZ BAND

OPEN COMMUNITY OVERTOWN JAZZ BAND 2017-Present Program 8 Instructors: Jean Caze, Harvel Nakundi & Elijah Thomas Overtown, located in the heart of Miami, has a history as one of the “meccas” of jazz music in the US. We are proud of our work in reintroducing jazz education to our public schools. Students from all schools are welcome to participate in studying jazz music with some of the best instructors and performers our city has to offer.

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JOSE DE DIEGO MIDDLE SCHOOL, OVERTOWN YOUTH CENTER & JDD JAGUARS UNITED 2015-Present Program 9-11 Rock Ensembles 1 and 2 & Drum Line Instructors: Juan Pelaez, Christian Rodriguez & Mr. Hill In 2015, YMU formed a guitar ensemble at The Overtown Youth Center. A year later, seeing an opportunity to unite student musicians from different neighborhoods, YMU expanded its Overtown Youth Center program and partnered with Jose De Diego Middle School and Jaguars United to create an open community after-school rock band and Drum Line, as well as an inschool rock program. Students in this unique program have the opportunity to pick up an instrument for the first time and learn how to play popular songs in a group setting.

ROCK ENSEMBLES

“Seeing the interest on the faces of kids while I was teaching guitar to them has shown me a whole new way to look at music that many people never get to see in their lifetime” –Levi Gans, Guitar

DRUMLINE

8th Grade Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

CORAL GABLES SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL 2017-Present Program 12 Jazz Band Instructors: Javier Nero & Carlos Hernandez In 2017, YMU partnered with Coral Gables Senior High to work side by side with their Jazz Band. Students meet 8-10 times a month to work on jazz charts, music theory and improvising.

GUITAR ENSEMBLE & JAZZ BAND

MIAMI EDISON HIGH SCHOOL & OVERTOWN YOUTH CENTER 2017-Present

Program 13 Little Haiti Open Community Rock Ensemble Instructors: Vanya Allen, Christian Rodriguez, Juan Pelaez & Mr. Barry YMU has recently started working in Little Haiti. We see so much raw potential in this community and are looking forward to creating daily after-school programming for students in the neighborhood. 20182019 programing will include drum line and jazz programming.

GUITAR ENSEMBLE & JAZZ BAND JOIN A PROGRAM Accepting Students: Overtown Open Community Jazz Band: 6th-12th grade Overtown Open Community Rock Ensemble: 6-9th grade Little Haiti Rock Ensemble & Drum Line: 8th-12th grade Email info@youngmusiciansunite.org 22 YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

TESTIMONIALS There is little doubt that learning to play a musical instrument enhances brain development, encourages academic success, and even enriches a child’s social skills by reducing stress and anxiety. Since 2013, the year Young Musicians Unite (YMU) began working with talented musicians at Young Men’s Preparatory Academy, the benefits mentioned above have been present and evident at our school. YMU has aided Young Men’s Preparatory Academy in fostering the tenets by which we guide our students: Scholarship, Leadership, Integrity, and Character. Whether through the introduction of the guitar ensemble in 2013, the jazz combo in 2015, or the reintroduction of the drum line in 2017, YMU and its mentors have reinforced academics, leadership and dedication to the community. In fact, we can humbly boast that several of our students have received full music scholarships, and have even, as alumni Caleb Alcime has done, become YMU mentors themselves. Over 160 students have directly benefitted from this program- our students have proudly participated in the Superintendent’s Opening of Schools; played The National Anthem at the Miami Heat MLK Game; performed at the Miami Beach Bandshell and have been featured on NBC 6. The donations, which are in the thousands, for the purchase of new equipment and the repair of existing instruments, have also assisted our students in their goal toward becoming accomplished musicians. The Young Musicians Unite program is without parallel. It is one of the programs afforded to the students of Miami-Dade County which proves how the sincere dedication of a few and the recognition of the arts as a valuable part of every curriculum can and will positively impact the masses. Sincerely,

PRINCIPAL PIERRE EDOUARD THE YOUNG MEN’S PREPARATORY ACADEMY

During 5th grade, my son Kyle Tennyson started having a lot of behavior problems. As his mother, I was very concerned since he had been an honor roll and gifted student all along. I had to think outside of the box and try to nip this in the bud so I started looking around for schools to transfer him to starting in the sixth grade. I came across The Young Men’s Preparatory Academy. Not knowing anything about the school I investigated and liked what I saw and heard. I felt my son was getting too distracted by girls, so I thought this school would be perfect for him – it’s an all boys school. After almost getting a divorce for even the thought of sending him to an all boys school, I stuck to my guns and enrolled him; my husband got on board after about a year. Kyle hated his first year there. He complained and complained to his father, knowing that his father didn’t want him there too. When he started the music program at the school he started to complain a little less, however it wasn’t until Sammy Gonzalez came into the picture that things started to change. I think Kyle’s interest in music peaked and he started to feel good about what he was doing and he then became extremely dedicated. I am so grateful for Sammy and Young Musicians Unite. I can’t even put into words how I feel. It only took one week and Kyle was hooked on the program. His whole attitude and behavior changed and I got the opportunity to see a little boy grow into a young man who is articulate, responsible, driven and very dedicated. Sammy Gonzalez created an amazing program. The kids who are enrolled know where they are going, they know exactly what they have to do to get there and they are not afraid of hard work. I don’t know if Sammy knows how much he has impacted these kid’s lives forever. I, for one, will always be indebted to him for what he has done and continues to do for these young lives. YMU has opened so many doors for Kyle. He currently books paid gigs and he is one of the members of a band who has performed at the Miami Heat Arena. Who would have thought that music could turn a boy into a man? Kyle’s whole life is brighter now and the most important thing is that he knows it. For that I am thankful to Sammy and Young Musicians Unite‼

JUDY TENNYSON PARENT 24 YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

YMU CLASSIC GUITAR SUMMER CAMP Young Musicians Unite and The Florida Guitar Foundation will be providing a free high intensity classical guitar camp. Via submissions, 30 students will be chosen to participate in this program and learn some of the top techniques in guitar playing. Over a week all students will receive 2 private lessons, participate in daily work shops, guitar ensemble classes, master classes, performances by some of Miami’s most talented players, and have full access to our teachers for questions and answers. Students have had access to classical guitar camps in every major US city except Miami until our first camp in 2016. We have stepped up to make the difference. Faculty: Rafael Padron Head of Classical Guitar of University of Miami Dr. Federico Musgrove DMA President & Executive Director of Florida Guitar Foundation Sammy Gonzalez President/CEO of Young Musicians Unite Alan Valladares Director of Guitar Programming of Young Musicians Unite

Proudly Supports P

Young Musicians Unite nite 7th Annual

Spring pring Concert oncert

Over 480+ Students Served! 2017-2018 YMU Expanded Enrollment from 85+ to 280+ students. 2018-2019 YMU will expand enrollment up to 450+ students, working across 8-10 Schools.

MILESTONES

20+ Students have been accepted into The Superintendent’s Honors Band 5 Students have had the opportunity to be mentored by New World Symphony’s Fellows.

over the year. We are proud to have him on our team.

4 Students have graduated and received full music scholarships. Marcelo Araujo-Cox - Guitar YMU student from 2017-Current Gabriel Pierre - Bass Accepted into the Los Angeles College YMU Student from 2014-2017 of Music, pursuing a major in Music Currently attends New World School Performance. of the Arts College on a full music scholarship and has come back as a YMU mentor. Nicholas Gelin - Trumpet YMU Student from 2013-Present Accepted into New World School of the Arts in the Fall of 2017. Nicholas has received mentorships with New World Symphony Fellows and was accepted into New World Symphony Side By Side performance in 2016. Caleb Alcime - Drums YMU Student from 2014-2017 Currently attending Miami Dade College on a full scholarship. Caleb Alcime has transformed from a student to a mentor

26 YMU MAGAZINE

Spring 2018

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“Young Musicians Unite helps me play an instrument when I was scared.”

“I think that my instructor is very cool because when I need help he explains things to me. ”

–Emmanuel Costume, Guitar Age 12/Grade 7

–George Casta, Guitar Age 18/Grade 12

“Young Musicians Unite is the greatest thing ever. It helped me relax and focus.” –Louis Sean, Bass Age 14/Grade 8

“Young Musicians Unite is an awesome club, it’s amazing how much it helped me learn something new.” –Isaac Davila, Guitar Age 11/Grade 6

“Young Musicians Unite has helped me improve greatly!! My bass playing skills have skyrocketed!!” –Emily Bencomo, Bass Grade 11

“Teaching other kids to play guitar at Jose De Diego middle school showed me the power of ymu, these students have been given the gift of music that they can’t find anywhere else” –Adam Chopp, Guitar 8th Grade

“Because of YMU I have the opportunity to preform and teach the music I love while making a difference in my community” –James Gerrard, Drums Age 16 Grade 11

“What I’ve experienced is how wonderful it is to learn how to play the piano. The teacher has taught me many techniques to this instrument.” –Ronald, Electric Piano Age 16/Grade 11

“I want to thank Young Musicians Unite for helping me realize the musical talent I never really thought that I had.” –Dave Desmarets, Piano. Age 17/Grade 11

“Mentoring and working with YMU has made me a better person. Working and helping out these talented kids has been a great experience and motivated me to continue playing music.” –Eliza Greenwald, Keys & Vocals - 9th Grade

“YMU is the best program!!!!! ” –Steve Charies, Snare, Drum Age 12/Grade 7

“YMU is an incredible organization and I’m so happy to be part of it. I️ love helping spread the experience of music across Miami.”

“Ymu is such a great

–Ivy Rosenberg, Guitar 7th Grade

–Sierra Hudson,

program because it takes kids who have the opportunity to play music and has them help mentor and raise money for kids who don’t.” Bass & Vocals - 8th Grade

“Young Musicians Unite made me learn some things like how to hear music and play drums and how to work together with others.” –Destiny Santos, Drums. Age 13/Grade 7

“Young Musicians Unite made me learn a lot of things that I didn’t know before. It’s a fun program to be in.” –Fleming, Drums Age 12/Grade 12

“YMU has let me show my skills to different people and perform in front of crowds.” –Marlon Lewis, Trumpet Age 15/Grade 10

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“Young Musicians Unite has helped me make a couple of new friends. Also, I am proud of my own skills that I didn’t know that I had. My family is happy that I am doing something other than gaming.” –Jonathan Hernandez, Guitar Age 15/Grade 9

“Thanks to my instructors I now know how to play the guitar and I know some chords and songs as well.”

“I’ve learned a lot thanks to Sammy and Juan. I hope to keep learning more about the bass when I leave high school.” –Ana Chazzanes, Bass Age 16/Grade 11

–Daniel Pena, Guitar Age 16/Grade 11

“YMU has brought out skills and abilities I never knew I had. ” –Billy McCray, Piano Age 15/Grade 9

“Young Musicians Unite has been a great journey. I came here with no knowledge and now I play the guitar with a band.” –Bryan Nievas, Guitar Grade 8

“I have a lot of fun when playing the guitar. Thank you for the opportunity.” –Linsley Augustin, Guitar. Grade 10

“It’s amazing how good the instructors are and how fast I learn to play.” –Damien Mercado, Piano. Age 15/Grade 9

“YMU has given

me the opportunity to perform at places I’ve never dreamed of.” –Patrick Johnson,

Bass, Drums&Percussion Age 16/Grade 9

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“Young Musicians Unite has helped me a lot with music and now I am getting really good at playing the drums.” –Steven Taveras, Drums. Age 12/Grade 7

“Young Musicians Unite helped me discover a new world with drums. I have had so much fun going from not knowing how to play at all to knowing how to play properly.” –Jose Mejid, Drums Age 17/Grade 12 “I started playing guitar in 9th grade and I’m now teaching myself how to play songs, thanks to YMU!” –Donovan Desmarets, Guitar - Age 16/Grade 10

“Playing shows has made an enormous impact on how I carry myself and on how I act off stage because I think playing shows is humbling and amazing. Playing shows shows what the hard work has been for.” –Harrison Matlick, Drums 8th Grade

“Young Musicians Unite has changed my understanding of music. They taught me guitar and I realized now how I can play. This is and will always be my greatest achievement after finishing college. Plus it’s free!” –James Joseph, Guitar. Age 11/Grade 6

“Being a part of Young Musicians Unite has been a great experience for me. I love helping out and mentoring other students. I learn a lot whenever I’m teaching other students. I also love being taught to play music by Sammy Gonzalez, the founder of YMU. I love playing music because it makes me happy.” –Sydney Greenwald, Bass & Guitar. 7th Grade “YMU has made me improve

my skills. I remember before I went through the program I didn’t know scales and I would play way too timidly. Now I am better and I can improvise solos.” –Erwin Dorsonnville, Tenor Saxophone. Age 16/Grade 9

Spring 2018

YMU MAGAZINE

The Power of Collaboration.

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