The YMU Collective April 2023

JENNIFER CHRISTINA'S STORY

PEYTON WOMOCK

MEET YMU INSTRUCTOR

EXPERIENCE YMU

TheYoungMu 2003 -2023 FOLLOW US

Happy Birthday YMU!

IN THIS ISSUE

THE YOUNG MUSICIAN'S UNIVERSITY

Our Mission at YMU is to help close the gap in youth access to music education and music technology by providing opportunities for students across the nation between the ages of 4-18 to access highquality online music education at a fraction of the cost of traditional music lessons

The YMU Campus offers students a unique learning experience Our specially designed online platform uses powerful integrated software in a collaborative connected environment for our learners

So whether students are exploring our online music library, participating in a collaborative music project, creating music in our online recording studio, participating in a virtual field trip, or improving their musicianship through music instruction, The Young Musician’s University is where learners thrive and discover their love and passion for music!

I hope that you enjoy this publication of The YMU Collective!

Mrs. Gray Director, The Young Musician's University

4 Jazz Appreciation Month

8 Journey To Broadway

Jennifer Christina's Story

14 Peyton Womock

Meet YMU Instructor

17 New Elective Classes

Experience YMU!

J

National

AZZ Appreciation Month

Watch the 2023 International Jazz Day All-Star Global Concert

April is National Jazz Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the rich history and influence of jazz music in American culture. Jazz is a unique art form that blends various styles, rhythms, and cultures, and has become a cornerstone of American music

The roots of jazz can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the African American community playing a significant role in its development. Jazz music was born out of the fusion of African rhythms and melodies with European harmonies and instrumentation, as well as the cultural and musical traditions of New Orleans.

Throughout the 20th century, jazz continued to evolve and expand, with musicians experimenting with new styles and sounds. From swing and bebop to fusion and free jazz, jazz has remained an innovative and dynamic genre of music.

THREEWAYSYOU CANCELEBRATE WITHYOURCHILD

1. Listen to jazz music: Take the time to listen to some of the great jazz musicians throughout history, from Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington to Miles Davis and John Coltrane.

2. Attend a jazz concert or festival: Check your local listings for jazz concerts and festivals in your area. Many cities hold annual jazz festivals, which are a great opportunity to see live performances and experience the energy of jazz music.

3. Learn about jazz history: Read books or watch documentaries about the history of jazz music and its impact on American culture.

Louis Armstrong

By the time of his death in 1971, the man known around the world as Satchmo was widely recognized as a founding father of jazz a uniquely American art form. His influence as an artist and cultural icon is universal, unmatched, and very much alive today.

Louis Armstrong’s achievements are remarkable. During his career, he:

Developed a way of playing jazz, as an instrumentalist and a vocalist, which has had an impact on all musicians to follow. Performed an average of 300 concerts each year, with his frequent tours to all parts of the world earning him the nickname “Ambassador Satch,” and became one of the first great celebrities of the twentieth century. Recorded hit songs for five decades, and his music is still heard today on television and radio and in films.

Louis Armstrong was born in a poor section of New Orleans known as “the Battlefield” on August 4, 1901.

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Giveyourchildmorethanjustmusiclessons, immersetheminanonlinemusiceducation experiencethatwilllastalifetime!

BENEFITS

ProfessionalTeachingStaff, VirtualFieldTrips,ElectiveClasses, Workshops,Clinics,Seminars, MusicCompetitions,Collaboration Opportunities,OnlineMusicLibrary, aStudent-RunRecordLabel, andmore!

MTheYoungMusician'sUniversityistheperfectplacefor youngmusicianstolearn,explore,create,share,and connect.Weprovideavirtualcollaborativecommunity foryoungmusicianstobuildafirmmusicalfoundation anddevelopalifelongloveformusic!Joinustoday andbecomeapartoftheYMUCampus!

Happy Birthday

Mr. Jenkins!

YMUDrumInstructor

JENNIFER CHRISTINA’S JOURNEY TO BROADWAY

WrittenbyKyleeOtto

YMU Music Journalism Student

Jennifer Christina is a phenomenal pianist, conductor, and music director. Since childhood, she has been surrounded and influenced by music, especially by her uncles, who were members of The Fabulous ThunderbirdsandTheSoupyBoys.Shegrew up around the blues and jazz scene but focusedmoreonclassicalmusic,describing herselfas“theblacksheepofthefamily.”

Her love for music and performance has beenevidentsinceshewasyoung.Growing up, she would play the piano whenever she would get upset. She loved performing for anyone and everyone, especially her family. Even as she got older, her passion for performance grew, and she realized how much interacting with people on many different levels could impact her as a performingartist.

"I just thought it was a great social thing," shestated.

She has had a plethora of incredible music teachers throughout her years. Her first teacher was Ann Peters, whom Christina said would "chain smoke cigarettes and play ragtime." Her other instructors included Sandra Irving (her cousin), Donald Rankin, Janice Weber, and Judith Lynn Stillman. Donald "Dr. D" Rankin was an enormous inspiration to Christina, and he taught her for nearlysixyears,twoyearsinhigh schoolandfouryearsincollege.

Although she did not seek out so many profound teachers, she realized that being taught by each of them helped her learn different perspectives of playing the piano, and she continues to use their techniques and teachings to this day Christina believes every student should try to have multiple teachers to learn diverse viewpoints and perspectives.

Throughout her life, she has had numerous influences, one of the most paramount being her firstever Broadway show, The Phantom of the Opera. She saw the play in high school with a couple of her friends and her music director, David DeAngelis. Despite this being her first musical and what she described as "the worst seats," she was inspired and even cried at the end

The reason behind such an emotional response was what she heard. In reverie, Christina said,"Themusic,itjustfilledme."

Jennifer'smusicalcareerstarted when she first became a piano teacher, which she did for 20 years due to wanting to stay home with her son and focus on being a mom. She taught many students throughout the years and still teaches one student today. Though her work with Broadway came much later, she was no novice to theatrical productions working with universities and playing musicalslikeGreasesince2012.

When she first considered working with Broadway, she had a lot of concerns about leaving her son But once he began college, and with encouragement from her family, she pursued her long-term dream. Her first Broadway show, none other than Dream Girls, touring in Asia She described her time with the show as "One of the most incredible experiences." Christina shared how her combined love for traveling, playing music, and performing made this experience extraordinary. While there, she showed appreciation during her travels by learning about each culture and getting toknowthelocals.

Now, Christina is working with the Broadway production Annie Her work with Annie began when she and her boyfriend, Clay Nordill, planned a move to New York. And some of their friends suggested they send their resumes for the show WithJenniferbeingapianist and Clay being a guitarist, they both decided this would be worthwhileforthemtospendtime together. "It is great!" she said when describing her experience ontheroadwithClay

With her busy schedule, Christina balances work and life by waking up early to see and enjoy each city in between shows. Her life is a whirlwind of travel days, free days, rehearsals, and outstanding performances. She shared that it was hard to balance everything in her life at first, but now she can manage it quite well with support from her family, friends, and partner, Clay. She expressed how finding "balance in yourself" and having the right support system canhelpyoudoanything.

Fornow,Jenniferplanstocontinue her work touring with Annie. As for thefuture,herphilosophyistowait for what may happen and be open to new opportunities. Christina'sbiggestpieceofadvice for all students aspiring to pursue music as a career is that you should always work hard every day, better yourself, open your mind to different things, be patient,andstickwithit.

Jennifer Christina with Kylee Otto

The Broadway musical Annie is making its way through the U.S. and recently stopped in Columbia, South Carolina The show took place at The Koger Center for the Arts

From the exceptional production to the incredible performers, the play truly spoke for itself. Each actor gave a captivating performance that left you completely immersed in the storyline The musical numbers struck you with waves of emotion, and despite this not being a sad musical, you might shed a few tears.

My favorite performance overall would have to be by Stefanie Londino, who plays the iconic Ms. Hannigan.

Annie Review

By: Kylee Otto

Her theatrics, interpretation, and comedic effect gave the show a natural energy that was downright entertaining If you need a dose of optimism or even a hearty laugh, this show is the perfect way to get some.

After the show, I met with Ms. Jennifer Christina, pianist and Associate Music Director for Annie Her energy and personality were so genuine, and I thoroughly enjoyed being able to have a conversation with her. If you ever get the opportunity to see Broadway's Annie, you will be in for a phenomenal experience!

Click to view Kylee's experience in this episode of YMU All Access!

YMU Music Journalism Student

YMU STUDENTS PITCH MUSIC

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH BABY LION MEDIA

Thanks to YMU's partnership with Baby Lion Media, a production company in LA, students were provided the chance to compose and present their music for a Pepsi Commercial that, if chosen, will be included in one of the director's reels. Students who participated in this project-based learning opportunity attended a two-day Music Production Intensive. YMU Assistant Director Kierra Gray said, "Partnerships provide a critical learning component for our students. It's through partnerships with industry professionals and businesses YMU can present real-world experiences outside the virtual classroom, otherwise not easily accessible to young musicians."

Joshua Adams, 17, has been studying piano at YMU for the past 11 years, and although music production was new to him, he decided to accept the challenge. In doing so, he said, "I've learned a lot during this Music Production Intensive and I've never produced music before. The class had clear direction and provided specific instructions." Using his musical

knowledge and the skills he gained from the intensive, Joshua successfully created his own song to pitch.

This event provided students with a chance to showcase their creativity while offering industry-specific learning opportunities, such as meeting tight deadlines. Alex Drakes, 16 years old, said, "First off, I learned that this was no easy task. Creating a track in a short span of time was an extreme challenge!" The team at Baby Lion Media will provide each student with personalized feedback for each track that is submitted.

The Young Musician's University looks forward to providing students with more opportunities such as this. YMU Educational Partners are made up of businesses, organizations, and individuals that collaborate with YMU to provide support, resources, or services that enhance the educational learning experience for our students. If you want more information about partnering with YMU, please email us at partners@ymunow.com.

MEETYMUINSTRUCTOR

WOMOCK

phonist His cross over Pop. He is y while also ge presence nergy being

second to none when it comes to hitting the stage Since Peyton was an infant, he has had a unique bond with music a bond that will last a lifetime As a child, he would put together musical performances in his living room for his family to enjoy Today, as a successful saxophonist, Peyton has created a public brand and image that expresses his passion, energy, and personal story through his art Peyton has garnered acknowledgment / worked alongside artists such as Lil Nas X, Bootsy Collins, Babyface, Gerald Albright, Take A Day Trip, members of Kanye West’s team, After 7, Emmy/Grammy award-winning artists, and many other notable individuals. He has also gained over 1 million impressions through platforms such as Twitter, Youtube, and Instagram Peyton not only has knowledge of the music industry through performing but also brings a unique perspective of music tech through his education at Indiana University where he studied Informatics with a cognate in music.

CLASSES INCLUDE:

Project-based learning is a teaching approach that emphasizes real-world problem-solving and hands-on experience. At The Young Musician's University (YMU), we believe that project-based learning is the most effective way for students to learn and develop new skills. That's why we offer a wide range of elective classes that encourage students to explore different areas and work on projects that reflect their interests.

Our elective classes cover a variety of subjects, including music production, video production, songwriting, music journalism, and more. Students have the opportunity to work on their own projects, collaborate with other students, and receive personalized guidance from our experienced instructors.

By taking elective classes, students can discover new interests, develop new skills, and gain experience working on projects that reflect their individual passions.

At YMU, we believe that project-based learning is essential to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in music and beyond. In our elective classes, we encourage students to take ownership of their learning and engage in their community, locally and virtually.

Whether a student is interested in music production, video production, or any other musical field, YMU's project-based approach provides a platform for them to grow and thrive.

NEW YMU ELECTIVE CLASSES!

MusicProduction

This program is designed to teach students the fundamentals of music production and recording. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how music is created and produced through hands-on experience using the latest technology and software Our experienced instructors are passionate about music and are committed to helping each student reach their full potential. Join us for this exciting new class and discover the world of music production!

Video Production

We believe that video production is a valuable skill for students to learn as it allows them to express their creativity in a different way while also learning technical skills that are highly relevant in today's digital age. Our class covers everything from storytelling and scriptwriting to filming and editing, giving children the opportunity to produce their own videos and share them with the world. We can't wait to see what our young filmmakers will create!

Music Journalism

Do you have a child who loves writing and music?

Our new Music Journalism course combines both passions, teaching students the skills they need to write about music and the music industry. Through this class, they will learn how to write album reviews, interview musicians, and cover music events. They will also develop critical thinking skills and an understanding of the role of media in the music industry.

Charlie Parker

"MUSIC IS YOUR OWN EXPERIENCE, YOUR OWN THOUGHTS, YOUR WISDOM. IF YOU DON'T LIVE IT, IT WON'T COME OUT OF YOUR HORN."

UNLi

PRACTICE MAKES POSSIBLE

Little Music Essentials

is our online piano course designed for students ages 4-6. Parents can choose our group class option or our group AND private class option.

1

LITTLEMUSICESSENTIALS1

Concepts taught are: How to sit at the piano; Correct hand position; High and low; Loud and soft (forte and piano); Keyboard topography; Bar line and measure; Quarter, half, whole notes and rests; and Repeat signs. The first pieces in the book are played on the black keys Later in the book, C D E for the RH and C B A for the LH (Middle C position) are taught with beginner pre-reading songs

LITTLEMUSICESSENTIALS3

Little Music Essentials 3 has students reading music that is completely written on the staff After a review, the new concepts taught are: Staccato, Legato, slurs; Melodic and harmonic 2nds and 3rds; and Melodic and harmonic 4ths and 5ths Bass clef C D E is also taught for the LH Students then know all notes necessary to play in the C position Playing both hands together is taught near the end of the book

With imaginative instruction and fun interactive games, your toddler will gain new skills through music exploration.

Group Class Size: 6 students max Group Class Duration: 45 minutes each week

2 3

LITTLEMUSICESSENTIALS2

Little Music Essentials 2 starts with prereading, then moves to reading on the staff After a review, the new concepts taught are: Dotted quarter notes and 4/4 time, 3/4 time, Mezzo-forte, Staff and note reading, Steps and skips, and the Grand Staff New notes taught are F and G in the LH and RH, completing the Middle C position

4

LITTLEMUSICESSENTIALS4

Little Music Essentials 4 introduces students to new concepts such as: Flat and sharp signs; Ties; and Crescendo and diminuendo After reviewing C position and Middle C position, G position is also taught All three positions are used alternately throughout the rest of the book, with flat and sharp notes incorporated.

Private Class Duration: 30 minutes each week

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MARCH 2023 MAKES