The Young Musician’s University is reimagining music education by providing an ecosystem where students between the ages of 4-18 can learn, explore, create, share, and connect as a community of young musicians nationwide
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 University6 New Elective Classes
Experience YMU!
8 Student Achievement
Jaden Campbell10 Live Virtual Event
Percussionist, Greg Hersey
14 Elizabeth Wetzel
Meet YMU Instructor
Songwriting allows young musicians to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a unique and personal way It serves as an outlet for their creativity, enabling them to unleash their imaginations and explore their own musical identities Through songwriting, children can develop their distinctive voices and develop a sense of artistic individuality
The process of crafting songs involves various musical elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and lyrics By engaging in songwriting, young musicians enhance their understanding and application of these fundamental components They learn to experiment with different chord progressions, explore melodies, and develop their lyrical prowess
Songwriting encourages young musicians to think critically and make creative decisions They learn to analyze and select words, phrases, and musical elements that effectively convey their intended message or evoke specific emotions Songwriters also face the challenge of structuring their songs and creating cohesive narratives This process nurtures problem-solving skills as they find innovative ways to tackle obstacles and shape their compositions
Songwriting provides a powerful avenue for emotional expression and introspection. It enables young musicians to explore their feelings and experiences, helping them develop emotional intelligence and selfawareness Through writing lyrics that reflect their own or others' experiences, they can also cultivate empathy and a deeper understanding of the human condition This empathetic connection enhances their ability to connect with others through their music
Completing a song and witnessing the impact it has on others can significantly boost a young musician's confidence and self-esteem
Songwriting empowers children to share their thoughts and ideas with the world, instilling a sense of pride in their creative accomplishments. Performing their original compositions in front of others further enhances their self-assurance and encourages them to embrace their unique artistic voices
MONDAY, JULY 24 @6PM
CONDUCTED BY
FREE & OPEN TO YOUTH IN 6TH-12TH GRADE
SONGCRITIQUE, SONGWRITINGTIPS ANDMORE!
Designed for students who have a passion for music and a curiosity about the business behind it. This exciting elective offers a comprehensive exploration of the inner workings of the music industry and equips students with invaluable knowledge and skills to navigate this everevolving landscape Students will delve into the various facets of the music business, including artist management, marketing and promotion, music publishing, digital distribution, live performances, and more.
In this exciting elective, young composers will dive into the fascinating world of music composition, discovering the techniques behind crafting their very own original pieces Guided by our skilled instructors, students will explore the elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, and structure while honing their skills in using our innovative music notation software to notate their compositions. In our virtual classroom environment, students will work with their peers, share their compositions, provide feedback, and participate in creative discussions
Is your child constantly coming up with lyrics or melodies? Explore the art of crafting melodies, writing captivating lyrics, and collaborating with fellow musicians to bring musical ideas to life. Learn the fundamental principles of song structure, chord progressions, melody development, and lyrical composition. We leverage the power of cutting-edge platforms enabling students to collaborate seamlessly with peers, breaking down geographical barriers, and allowing for a dynamic and diverse creative environment.
Giveyourchildmorethanjustmusiclessons, immersetheminanonlinemusiceducation experiencethatwilllastalifetime!
ProfessionalTeachingStaff, VirtualFieldTrips,ElectiveClasses, Workshops,Clinics,Seminars, MusicCompetitions,Collaboration Opportunities,anOnlineMusic Library,aStudent-RunRecordLabel, andmore!
MTheYoungMusician'sUniversityistheperfectplacefor youngmusicianstolearn,explore,create,share,and connect.Weprovideavirtualcollaborativecommunity foryoungmusicianstobuildafirmmusicalfoundation anddevelopalifelongloveformusic!Joinustoday andbecomeapartoftheYMUCommunity!
YMU is excited to offer project-based learning that provides students with real-world experiences outside the virtual classroom, otherwise not easily accessible to young musicians. Baby Lion Media, a production company based in LA, has partnered with The Young Musician's University to provide industry opportunities for YMU students.
Jaden Campbell, 16, pitched his music track to Baby Lion Media along with other students after attending YMU's Music Production Intensive. After taking the time to listen, critique, and provide feedback to each student, Baby Lion notified us that Jaden's track was selected! His track will be featured on their director's reel for a Pepsi Commercial. Congratulations! Jaden is a long-time YMU student and multi-instrumentalist. He wants to continue studying music and desires to one day have a career centered around music production.
YMU welcomes The Roberts Group as an Educational Partner! The Roberts Group has been presenting National Touring Shows around the country for over 20 years. Since the birth of the company, the emphasis has been on the development of theatrical-based Subscription Series in secondary and tertiary markets. Some of those markets have grown from one-night season markets into multiple performance markets.
The company has since developed longer relationships with certain tours, resulting in many engagements around the country, year-round that The Roberts Group, or TRG, manages from start to finish with an in-house team of marketing professionals. TRG continues to expand its operations into the coming years forging new relationships and expanding its current artist roster targeting those artists that would be appropriate for proscenium theatre settings.
TRG currently operates Subscription Series in Columbia, SC; Daytona Beach, FL; Wheeling, WV; Newport News, VA; and Kalamazoo, MI. TRG has a vast history of presenting touring theatrical events in markets of all shapes and sizes including such titles as The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Cats, The Illusionists, Chicago, Jersey Boys, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia!, Michael Flatley’s Lord of The Dance, Rent, Annie, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Mannheim Steamroller Christmas, Riverdance, Stomp, and many others.
TRG has strong, long-standing relationships with key booking agencies in New York, Los Angeles, and Nashville. In addition to operating Subscription Series, TRG also has a long history of presenting non-theatrical programming including musical artists such as Johnny Mathis, Kenny Rogers, Frankie Valli, and The Oak Ridge Boys. Other special events include David Copperfield, The Price is Right Live, Celtic Woman, Walking with Dinosaurs, Wild Kratts LIVE, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood LIVE, Alton Brown, David Sedaris, and Neil deGrasse Tyson, as well as other complimentary programming.
Daniel Hampel, Managing Director: “I’ve worked for The Roberts Group for nearly 18 years now and love the company's independence and small business nature, as well as the unique niche part of the Entertainment Industry that we handle. It gives me great appreciation and joy to not only watch our little company grow, but also watch the life cycle of an event from the time of putting a date on hold with a venue, to offer, to contract, to tickets going on sale, and finally to the culmination of the prosecution of the event. It can be an up-and-down business, but it’s always very rewarding in various ways!”
Kristi Chambers, Director of Marketing & Public Relations: “Performing arts experiences, whether you ’ re a creator or a consumer, can unite and inspire generations. We are excited to partner with The Young Musician’s University to further these experiences and provide students with the opportunity to engage with professionals in fields and further their artistic passions.”
Tembi Gray, YMU Director: "We're simply thrilled to partner with The Roberts Group, and we feel that our joint passion for the performing arts will greatly benefit YMU students!"
voice performance, program coordination, classroom management, private instruction, child care, and K-12 music education pending her college graduation In 2018, Elizabeth completed her Bachelor of Music Education in Voice from Arizona State University, eager to broaden her music career. The highlight of her youth was performing in various small and large vocal ensembles, inspiring her to continue vocal performance as a lifelong pursuit In the summer of 2018, Elizabeth enlisted in the U.S. Navy as an active-duty musician. She spent nearly four years in the Hampton Roads area performing as a vocalist and entertainer for the U S Fleet Forces Band Her duties included solo vocal engagements and lead singing for popular music groups, wind ensembles, brass bands, jazz combos, brass quintets, and various duets.
Elizabeth's proudest accomplishment is bringing her son, Lincoln, into this world. He motivates her to be better, work harder and secure a future full of possibilities Elizabeth is dedicated to continuous improvement through professional development to ensure her teaching remains highly valuable She is determined to provide quality education for her students and believes the gift of music promotes academic growth, socialemotional development, and cultural awareness in students of all ages By fostering lifelong musicians and providing education in the universal language of music, she hopes to leave a lasting legacy in her community With YMU, Elizabeth is excited to carry on this legacy by imparting her expertise and love for music to current and future generations
Stevie Wonder's extraordinary journey as a musician is an inspiration to all young musicians. From his resilience in the face of adversity to his boundless creativity, unwavering social advocacy, and mastery of multiple instruments, he embodies the qualities of a true musical icon. May his journey inspire young musicians to dream big, push boundaries, and create music that resonates with the world.
1 Resilience and overcoming adversity: Stevie Wonder's story is a lesson for young musicians on the strength of resilience and the power of overcoming challenges. Despite his blindness, he never let his disability hold him back from pursuing his musical dreams. His success is a testament to the fact that with determination and perseverance, anything can be achieved
2. Versatility and musical exploration: Stevie Wonder's diverse range of musical styles, from soul to funk, jazz to pop, demonstrates the importance of versatility Young musicians can learn from his fearless exploration of different genres, encouraging them to step out of their comfort zone and embrace a wide range of musical influences.
3. Social consciousness and using music for change: The music of Stevie Wonder is renowned for its impactful messages of love, unity, and social transformation He has utilized his influence to spotlight societal concerns, motivating aspiring artists to utilize music as a tool for constructive change and to make a positive impact on the world.
4 Emotion and connection: Stevie Wonder's exceptional talent of infusing genuine emotion into his songs enables him to establish a strong connection with his audience. Aspiring musicians can gain valuable insights from his expertise in expressing emotions through music, which can inspire them to explore their own emotions and create music that deeply resonates with others.
5. Instrumental mastery: Stevie Wonder's proficiency in playing multiple instruments, such as piano, harmonica, and drums, highlights the importance of mastering one's craft Young musicians can learn from his dedication to honing his skills on different instruments, encouraging them to broaden their musical abilities and become well-rounded musicians.
5 things you can learn from Stevie's journey
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
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
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
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
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
MARCH 2023 MAKES
