HerStory
We hope you joins us as we celebrate Women not only this month but 365!
Celebrating Herstory 365
“Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.”
From a month of love and excellence, to a month of herstory!
The first celebration that inspired Women’s History Month, was from a week-long event recognizing the cultural and historical contributions made by women and was organized by the Sonoma, CA school district in 1978. Several schools and hundreds of students participated in an essay contest titled “Real Woman”. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter proclaimed the week of March 8th as Women’s History Week and 6 years after, the National Women’s History Project petitioned Congress to expand the week to the Month of March. International Women’s Day which is global movement is also celebrated this month and originally took place on March 8, 1911.
This month’s Backstage spotlights a select group of pioneer women within the music industry. The women selected were true trailblazers and we believe their contributions deserve to be celebrated 365. And make sure to connect with us on on twitter and instagram throughout the month we will highlight beautiful words of wisdom from various women in music, performing arts and wellness industries .
At Brooklyn Music School we believe in the ideal of America, that all people are created equal and in turn should be celebrated and honored year-round. We hope that one day contributions made by cultures who have been pushed outside of the margins will be celebrated as a part of America’s rich and beautifully diverse Herstory, until that time we hope you joins us as we celebrate Women not only this month but 365!
You can read more about Women’s History here.
BMS Backstage: Celebrating Women in Music
This March let us pause to remember these iconic women and celebrate Women in Music and Arts!
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
As an organization that values music on a daily basis, we feel it is vital to remember and celebrate the stories that underpin much of today’s music. Throughout history, the women highlighted this month have made tremendous contributions to music and the arts; they have pushed the boundaries of creative expression, defied racial stereotypes, and created music that will last generations. This March let us pause to remember these iconic women and celebrate Women in Music and Arts!
Ma Rainey - Blues
Ma Rainey is a vital figure in music history whose contributions to blues are still seen today. She was born Gertrude Pridgett Rainy into a family of singers. Rainey demonstrated her musical talent early on, beginning her career at the age of fourteen by performing in local talent shows; she later began performing in vaudeville and minstrel shows. Rainey was one of the first black female vocalists to earn a livelihood from singing blues music. Her powerful voice, passion for singing, and raw emotion spoke to the experiences of many Black southerners. In fact, she was so influential that she became known as “The Mother of the Blues”. She is credited for popularizing blues music before it evolved into early jazz, with songs such as "Bo-Weevil Blues" and "Ma Rainey's Black Bottom". Her influence on these genres speaks volumes, as she remains one of the foundations around which jazz has been constructed, and for that history will be eternally thankful.
Mary Lou Williams - Jazz/Piano
Mary Lou Williams Mary Lou Williams is a pivotal figure in jazz history, best recognized for her piano abilities and famous compositions and arrangements. Williams, who was born in Georgia in 1910, began playing the piano at the young age of six. As a child, she performed at University of Pittsburgh's events and for prominent Pittsburgh families such as the Carnegies and the Mellons. In her early career, she performed with the famous Andy Kirk and was a member of the "Twelve Clouds of Joy" band, branded as the "Woman Who Swings the Band." Williams was recognized for her inventive harmonies that blended fast tempos and improvisation. During her career, she composed hundreds of works and collaborated with some of jazz's most important musicians, including Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Dizzy Gillespie. Most importantly, she acted as an inspiration and mentor to many young Black performers, making vital contributions to the past and future of jazz.
Peggy Jones - Rock/Guitar
Peggy Jones has long been regarded as a legendary figure in music history. On stage, she was known as Lady Bo and was recognized as one of the first famous female guitarists. She grew up performing, playing the ukulele, and studying ballet and opera. At the age of fifteen, Jones bought her first guitar, playing in a local group called The Bop-Chords. Her career officially began in 1957 when she met Bo Diddley backstage at the Apollo Theater. There, he invited her to join his band as a guitarist. It was then that Jones began to invent herself as one of the first female lead roll and roll guitarists. In 1961, she left the band to focus on her solo career with the Jewels who were very popular in the east coast club scene. As the Queen Mother of Guitar, Lady Bo laid the foundations for what would result in the unique sounds of modern rhythm and blues and jazz-fusion genres and will surely remain part of America's cultural history for decades to come.
Chen Yi - Classical/Violin
Chen Yi is a composer whose music draws from both Western and Chinese traditions which have significantly developed contemporary classical music. Yi’s music journey began at a young age and was greatly influenced by her father's collection of music records and orchestral scores. By fifteen, she was even able to learn the solo parts of classical music compositions for the instrument. Unfortunately, the 1966 Cultural Revolution posed a major roadblock in her musical journey. As part of Mao Tse-Tung's purging of educated professionals from positions of influence, Chen's home was searched and all music was seized by Red Guards. Chen and her siblings were sent to a work camp in the countryside during the Cultural Revolution. She was still allowed to play the violin, but only during revolutionary songs. Chen was given more flexibility with her songs and eventually was permitted to study music when the cultural landscape started taking root again. In 1986 Chen became the first woman in China to receive a master's degree in composition from the Central Conservatory of Music in Beijing. As a composer and lecturer at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Li is still shaping classical music today.
Acknowledging Women in Music and the Arts is an opportunity to celebrate and remember the contributions of iconic women who have long inspired us. Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Ma Rainey, Nina Simone, Mary Lou Williams, and Sarah Vaughan are just a few of the revolutionary figures that we should all make an effort to recognize. This month encourages us to acknowledge those who blazed a path --and we should keep their stories alive by streaming their music and telling their stories. With the immeasurable gratitude we owe these women, let’s recognize their incredible legacies--not just in February or March but with each passing day.
Love and Excellence
We believe in the ideal of America, that all people are created equal and in turn should be celebrated and honored year-round, please join us this month as we kick off - Celebrate 365!
Love & Excellence
“History has shown us that courage can be contagious, and hope can take on a life of its own.”
Black History Month is an annual celebration that honors Black people’s contribution to American History. Also, referred to as African American History Month, the month was inspired by American historian Carter G. Woodson. Woodson was a scholar who opened the field of Black studies throughout colleges across the US. In 1926 he established what we refer to today as Black History Month – he is often referred to as the father of Black History you can read more about Carter G. Woodson here. President Gerald Ford officially recognized Black History Month in 1976 to acknowledge all of the contributions that Black people made to building and contributing to American culture and history.
#muiscmonday moodboard
At Brooklyn Music School we believe in the ideal of America, that all people are created equal and in turn should be celebrated and honored year-round, and we practice this ideal through our programming, events, fundraisers and partnerships. This month please join us as we celebrate love and excellence. We kick off the month on Monday, February 6th with a 4 part Music Monday series, that highlights 4 amazing musicians and how they express love through music. As we highlight specific lyrics, we also hope that this small series also inspires a more mindful approach to listening to music.
Saturday February 18th is the Annual Songs from the Heart Concert. Please join us for this historical event featuring our faculty and students as they perform a playlist of songs that express the complexities and layers of love.
We hope that one day contributions made by cultures who have been pushed outside of the margins will be celebrated as a part of America’s rich and beautifully diverse history, until that time we hope you joins us as we celebrate love and excellence not only this month but 365!
You can read more about Black History’s History here.
BMS Backstage: Celebrating National Get Out Your Guitar Day
For over a century, Brooklyn Music School has instilled musical knowledge in the minds of its students. However, BMS' most important philosophy has always been to encourage a lifelong love of music.
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
For over a century, Brooklyn Music School has instilled musical knowledge in the minds of its students. However, BMS' most important philosophy has always been to encourage a lifelong love of music. Few things bring people together more than music, and few things are more rewarding or enjoyable than learning to play an instrument. It's for this reason that we're so excited to recognize National Get Out Your Guitar Day with this month’s installment of Backstage.
The guitar has come a long way from the first plucking of string to the entrancing, melodious chords we recognize today. Its roots can be found in a variety of ancient instruments dating back as far as 4,000 years. Though it is most often traced back to 16th century Spain. Since then, the guitar has been adapted and changed to meet the needs of musicians and audiences.
Photo Credit: Mario La Pergola @mlapergolaphoto
Photo Credit: Wes Hicks @sickhews
The guitar is known for its versatility and ability to transcend genre. As well as its accessibility and ease of learning. At BMS we offer both group and individual lessons to learn such a versatile instrument. Group guitar lessons cover fundamentals, including picking hand techniques, playing in a group environment, note reading, introduction to chords, etc. While private lessons provide students at all ages of experience to work in a highly tailored, one-on-one environment with world-class guitar educators across a range of musical traditions. Instruction covers musical styles including rock, jazz, classical, blues folk/Americana, and Bluegrass.
Experience the guitar at BMS
National Get Out Your Guitar Day is the perfect opportunity for everyone, regardless of skill level, to grab their guitar and play. If you don't know how to play, or it's been a while since you've picked up the instrument, consider signing up for group or individual lessons at BMS. Our highly skilled instructors will have you playing the music you love in no time. So what are you waiting for? Grab your guitar and let's celebrate!
Get Out Your Guitar Day
February 11, 2023
BMS Backstage: 2022 Recap
Brooklyn Music School has had a whirlwind year, from concerts and shows performed by our talented students to exciting events, galas, and bashes held throughout the year.
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
Happy New Year!
Brooklyn Music School has had a whirlwind year, from concerts and shows performed by our talented students to exciting events, galas, and bashes held throughout the year. We've made so many wonderful memories in 2022, and now that 2023 has arrived, let us take this opportunity to reflect on all of the incredible experiences we've had over the last year.
BMS' 20th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert
We began the year with a special live stream event, the 20th Annual "Spirit of Hope," our annual Martin Luther King Jr. Tribute Concert. We celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy virtually this year with an incredible lineup of performances that included esteemed guest artist Janis Russell, as well as BMS Jazz faculty and students. Congressman Hakeem Jeffries also made a wonderful video presentation for the annual event, speaking about the turbulent year and how Dr. King's legacy and methodology are more important than ever. It was a memorable and inspiring evening, and we can't wait for this year's event!
Valentine's Day Concert
Last February was definitely filled with love, music, and joy as we held our annual Valentine's Day concert, “Songs from the Heart”. Our brilliant vocalists and ensembles provided us with a musical melting pot that spoke to the power of love. From rock ballads to heartbreaking anthems, we were reminded of how human connection can go beyond words.
Sunday Sound Baths
This past year, BMS has been promoting South Bath Meditations to enhance general health and wellness. These sound bath meditations are guided listening meditations with a range of instruments designed for optimal release, grounding, and balance. The sound bath employs Alchemy gem and quartz crystal singing bowls, Himalayan metal singing bowls, hand pans, monochords, and other resonant drone instruments to induce a profound state of rest and release in order to balance the autonomic nervous system. These sonic meditations involve all of the senses and are based on the notion that deep listening allows us to heal and connect with ourselves and others while also generating new neural pathways for optimal, sound health. We have hosted over (insert number) Sound Bath Meditations over the 2022 season and are thrilled to be able to encourage healthy arts within our local community. Keep an eye out for future Sound Bath Meditations sessions this year!
The Eighth Annual BMS Middle School Jazz Festival
Last April, we hosted our Eighth Annual BMS Middle School Jazz Festival. Throughout the event, we heard music from Grammy-Winning Trumpet Soloist Extradorimne Micheal Rodirgrez and esteemed legends such as Chick Corea, Charlie Haden, Kenny Barron, Clark Terry, Bobby Watson, Eddie Palmieri, and Quincy Jones. We also got to witness a wonderful selection of music from performers such as Ocean Hill Collegiate Charter School's Jazz Band and the Forte Prep Jazz Band as well as from our own Brooklyn Music School's Jazz Faculty and Jazz Ensemble. It was a fantastic evening filled with all things jazz.
Spring Annual Fundraising Gala
Last May, our Annual Spring Fundraising Gala took place on the rooftop terrace of the Brooklyn Children's Museum. The night was a celebration of both music and performance in all of its forms, but this year with a new purpose. The New heartBEATS Fundraising Gala launched a new initiative at the Brooklyn Music School, emphasizing the importance of health and wellbeing in the arts and within the Brooklyn community. BMS believes that a healthy arts community contributes to the overall mental and physical well-being of the borough while also fostering strong community connections. Contributions and funds raised from the New heartBEATS Gala went toward enhancing programming such as early childhood music education, after-school programs, music therapy, dance, and musical theater. These programs will help to sustain Brooklyn as a thriving arts community while also supporting the borough's schools, community centers, and senior centers. Our gala not only launched this new initiative of promoting healthy arts, but it also celebrated both our internal and external BMS communities and featured performances by distinguished artists. The night was unforgettable, but it was only the beginning of our efforts to promote healthy arts.
Spring Spectacular
Our Spring Spectacular last June was a music-filled evening that highlighted the musical talent of our very own ensembles and musicians. With their melodic songs, the Woodwind Quintet, Youth Orchestra, The Blackstones, Jazz Band, Adult Rock Band, and Jazz Band got the audience on their feet. Meanwhile, talented soloists created some amazing music while delivering captivating performances. Last year was certainly a spectacle of musical mastery, making us even more eager to see what this year has in store!
First Annual Beer and Beats Festival
This past summer BMS created a brand new festival across Brooklyn that combined two of life's best things: great beer and great music! BMS' Beer and Beats Festival is a borough-wide tour of Brooklyn that is presenting free live music from BMS students, faculty and guest Brooklyn-based performers at six well-established breweries. Our goal for the Beer and Beats Festival was to engage and connect with our community on a larger scale, while also generating revenue and audiences for local businesses, and local artists. The event also doubled as a fundraiser, as a portion of the beer proceeds from each brewery was given as a donation to BMS!
Back to BMS Bash
Last September, we held our first-ever "Back to BMS Bash!" to welcome back our Brooklyn Music School community. It was a delightful gathering filled with snacks, drinks, and musical performances by members of our faculty and staff. The event was a blast, and it was a great way for students and teachers to (re)connect and an opportunity for alumni to reacquaint themselves with BMS. Here's to continuing the tradition of the Back to BMS Bash!
IVA The 2nd BMS Artist-in-Residence
BMS Artist-in-Residence program is launching the 2nd year of the this newly developing program. This year’s artist is BMS’s very own Emily Tepe who is know professionally as IVA. This past fall Emily offered a vocal warm-up for the BMS community and this coming spring there will be a special concert taking place in the MacDowell Room- mark your calendars for Sunday, March 5th and stay tuned for more details. You can read more about IVA here.
Sunday Jazz Sessions
This year, Jazz Standard Foundation and the Jazz Faculty at BMS Brooklyn collaborated to create Sunday Jazz Sessions, a program that is sure to please all jazz lovers. Beginning at 2pm and lasting until 3pm students collaborate under the supervision of experienced professionals. Following that, from 3pm to 4pm, students demonstrated what they had been practicing during the previous session. All music lovers are invited to stay for the entire journey or just for the last hour to witness some of the best music improvisations around. Sunday took on a whole new meaning for jazz fans this year!
Halloween BMS Monster Bash
This past October BMS celebrated its tenth anniversary of Halloween fun! With music, prizes, games and all the candy we could eat - not to mention our annual talent show and costume contest - it was an unforgettably spectacular night for all. Highlights of the evening included the amazing music acts from our incredibly talented performers, who really had us going as they belted out classical ensembles and hit Halloween songs. The costume contest was also fiercely contested, with several contestants competing for a prize bag filled with treats. Overall, the tenth anniversary of our Halloween celebrations at BMS was a huge success.
Giving Tuesday Events
Giving Tuesday began in 2012 as an idea to encourage businesses, organizations, and individuals to do something charitable. Now in its tenth year, #givingtuesday has evolved into a global movement that has inspired millions of people worldwide to give, connect, and celebrate the power of generosity. BMS was proud to participate in the special 10-year anniversary celebration this past November, with a new series focusing on sharing professional experiences in the music and performing arts industry. In mid-November, we invited members of the community to join us in the MacDowell Room for a free professional workshop with award-winning independent artist and recent Brooklyn Music School Honoree Maya Azucena. In the workshop, Maya sang, shared stories, and gave advice on becoming a successful international indie artist! Later in the month, we invited BMS Spring Gala Honoree Damon DeGraff. Since starting his own New York based company in 2001, dGi Management Damon DeGraff has become one of the world’s most renowned managers representing some of the industry’s premier artists, DJs and record producers. We thank Damon Maya for donating their time to the BMS community and for sharing their stories and strategies for professional growth.
Shrek the Musical Jr.! BMS Production
Last month, the BMS Musical Theatre Department's production of Shrek the Musical Jr. was a smashing success. Both performances on two nights were completely sold out as eager theatergoers enjoyed watching the family-friendly musical comedy about the adventures of an ogre named Shrek who sets out on a quest to save a princess from a dragon. However, in order to ultimately succeed, Shrek must overcome an even greater challenge: learning to believe in himself and open his heart to others. We are so proud of our hardworking students who put on such memorable performances for the audience, making Shrek the Musical Jr. a true success.
Holiday Spectacular
In our final event of the 2022 year, BMS students put on an amazing festive showcase at our very own theater. It was amazing to see all the BMS bands and soloists take the stage and rock out for an enthusiastic crowd! We saw a variety of genres, from jazz to classical music to pop, and it truly captured the range and breadth of talent at our school. It was such a great recap of our program this year and it showed just how much hard work had gone into our performances throughout the year in anticipation of this show. We're already looking forward to next year's showcase!
As we move into 2023, we want to take a moment to thank all of the people who have made Brooklyn Music School's past year so incredible. Our students, parents, faculty, and staff have all contributed to making BMS such a special place, and we can't wait to see what the next year brings. Thank you for being part of our community and helping us create an amazing year full of wonderful memories. We can't wait to see what 2023 has in store for us and from all of us at the Brooklyn Music School, happy new year!
IVA's Winter Memories
Lucia Day is the day of lights, celebrating when a vision of St. Lucia, an Italian saint, appeared on the shores on Sweden.
“The sweet buns are the special treat of the day. It’s also a time of year where many drink glögg, which is sweet mulled wine, and eat pepparkaka (ginger snaps) sometimes with blue cheese spread on them. (Trust me, it’s good.)”
IVA in Atlanta celebrating Luciadagen with Swedish Expats.
This is an interview with singer-songwriter IVA from New York and the new-ish BMS Marketing Director Cecily Ferguson (who is based in Sweden). The interview is part of the artist in residence program.
Swedish Connections
Sankta Lucia (Saint Lucy’s Day or Feast of Saint Lucy).
What does Lucia Day mean in Sweden? Lucia Day is the day of lights, celebrating when a vision of St. Lucia, an Italian saint, appeared on the shores on Sweden. Sweden is in it’s darkest days during this time (in Stockholm, sun up at 9am and down at 3pm) so celebrating light is poignant in December. The oldest daughter in each family dresses as Lucia and brings buns to the family before the sun comes up on Lucia Day, and girls and boys sing in choirs and process in churches, venues, and on the streets with songs specifically written for Lucia Day.
Are there special treats associated with the day? The sweet buns are the special treat of the day. It’s also a time of year where many drink glögg, which is sweet mulled wine, and eat pepparkaka (ginger snaps) sometimes with blue cheese spread on them. (Trust me, it’s good.)
Can you describe the Luciatåg (Lucia train)? Whomever is playing Lucia wears a crown of real candles on her head, while the other girls have wreathes on their heads and carry candles in their hands, and the boys dress as star boys wearing a dunce cap shaped white hat and carrying a star at the end of a pole. All of the participants wear a white robe.
Have you ever participated in a Luciatåg? Oh ja. I did my first Luciatåg at Old Swedes Church, Wilmington, Delaware, when I was a teenager. I learned the songs then and eventually became Lucia when I got to high school, wearing the crown of candles. When I moved to Sweden I was hired to be a Lucia for a couple of events and then again when I returned to the U.S. for the Swedish American Chamber of Commerce in Atlanta. They know how to throw a great Lucia party! Attached is a photo of me with the Swedish expats in Atlanta :) We put together a lovely choir for the event. Lucia is always a beautiful day because the songs and the lights, especially when in a candlelit church or other space, really create a magical feeling.
Do you know of any places in NYC where people can celebrate Lucidagen? In New York the Swedish Church celebrates Lucia Day on Saturday the 10th of December from 3-7pm! I’m glad you asked this cause now I’m gonna go!!!
Connect with IVA on insta
BMS Backstage: Music in Major Holidays
From Ōmisoka to Kwanzaa, there are so many ways music is used during the holiday season. Throughout history, music has been used to bring people together and create an atmosphere of peace and comfort. This is particularly true during the holiday season when we return to the same songs and melodies year after year for that nostalgic feeling.
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
It's that time of year again when the leaves are changing color, the weather is getting colder, and every month we’re looking forward to a different holiday. This winter season, we at BMS are celebrating the holidays in the only way we know how: through music! In this post, we'll look at the various types of music linked with key December holidays, as well as how they come to evoke this sense of nostalgia.
From Ōmisoka to Kwanzaa, there are so many ways music is used during the holiday season. Throughout history, music has been used to bring people together and create an atmosphere of peace and comfort. This is particularly true during the holiday season when we return to the same songs and melodies year after year for that nostalgic feeling.
Christmas would not be Christmas without music. For centuries, people have been singing Christmas carols as a way to celebrate the holiday season. These songs frequently tell the story of Christ's birth and express the holiday's joy and hope. There are many different genres of Christmas music available today, ranging from traditional carols to modern pop songs. These songs have a sense of joy that we don't find in the genres we listen to year-round. They were intended, within the Christian musical tradition, to spread joy and warmth during the cold months and usher in celebration and festivity. And every year, as we play these songs at the start of December we're honoring this tradition.
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated by people all over the world. The holiday commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days. Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is observed by burning candles in a nine-branched menorah. During Hanukkah, people sing special songs called Hanukkah or Chanukah songs. These songs, which are mainly in Hebrew, describe the Hanukkah story or thank God. Hanukkah songs tend to be upbeat and festive, making them an important element of the occasion.
Kwanzaa is a seven-day holiday celebrated by people of African descent all over the world. Music plays an important role in Kwanzaa celebrations, serving as a way to connect with African heritage and culture. Kwanzaa music ranges from traditional songs and chants to more modern songs. Regardless of its style, Kwanzaa music is always uplifting and celebratory. It is a powerful way of bringing people together and instilling a sense of pride and community. For those celebrating Kwanzaa, music is an essential part of the holiday experience.
Boxing Day is a national holiday observed on December 26th in the United Kingdom. The holiday has its roots in the Christian tradition of giving gifts to the less fortunate, but it has since become secularized. Boxing Day is now a day for spending time with family and friends, as well as shopping and attending sporting events. The music played on Boxing Day is one of its most distinctive features. . Specifically, three traditional songs are often heard on this holiday: "God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen," "Good King Wenceslas," and "The First Noel." Each of these songs has a rich history and contributes to the festive atmosphere.
In Japan, Ōmisoka marks the end of the old year and the beginning of the new. On Ōmisoka, many Japanese families visit temples and shrines to pray for a prosperous new year. It is a season of hope and renewal, and its music reflects that. Many of the songs are about starting over and facing the world with renewed vigor. Others are about cherishing our relationships and creating long-lasting memories. However, regardless of their message, all of these songs are designed to incite joy and happiness. It is a reminder that even as we begin a new year, we can always hold on to the things that are most important to us.
This winter, we are grateful for our incredible community and their shared passion for music! So, whether you're singing Christmas carols, Chanukah songs, or celebrating Boxing Day, we wish you a wonderful winter and happy holidays from everyone at BMS!
Donor's Den: Tom Conlon
We actually got involved with BMS through a client of ours, and we did pro-bono branding and design for the 110th anniversary, so we were able to contribute as a team in that way. Of course, monetary donations are great, but any way you can support BMS will help the cause.
“Music and artistic expression exercises the muscles in a different part of your brain, and helps you become a well-rounded individual. ”
Community support is at the heart of BMS. One of our most cherished corporate sponsors is North Street Collective, a creative agency focused on branding, strategy, design, and web development for corporate and nonprofit organizations. Tom Conlon is the Founder + CEO of North Street Creative, launching business operations 12 years ago and growing it into a company of 14 people with offices in New York’s Seaport district and Providence, RI. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with him and get his perspective on community involvement in the arts.
What about BMS’ mission excites you?
We’re big music fans at North Street; we love sharing artists and playlists with each other. Music is also an incredibly interesting and effective way for kids to learn. There are things you are taught in school that can wire you a certain way. Music and artistic expression exercises the muscles in a different part of your brain, and helps you become a well-rounded individual. It opens up opportunities that standard school subjects don’t! Arts education isn’t available to everybody, and it’s important for everybody to be able to experience it.
Growing up, what was your relationship with performing arts?
When I was growing up, we had the annual school play that the whole class was a part of. I had the esteemed privilege of playing the Mayor in the Wizard of Oz. After elementary school I wasn’t really into the drama scene, and I didn’t take any formal arts/music classes, but I played the bass guitar. I took lessons and played in a band in college. I took a class in high school called Music and Computers where you could make compositions on the computer and it was really fun!
What’s the best way for someone to show their support for BMS?
Honestly, any way you can. We actually got involved with BMS through a client of ours, and we did pro-bono branding and design for the 110th anniversary, so we were able to contribute as a team in that way. Of course, monetary donations are great, but any way you can support BMS will help the cause.
Mentor of the Month: Sterling
Sterling has a long history with BMS and plays drums and the guitar and hopes to continue her musical journey through collage.
In Sterling’s Words…
I decided to be a mentor because as a child I really looked up to the mentors, and I wanted to be someone that a child could look up to…
We are proud to kicks off a new monthly series that focuses on the mentors.
Sterling has a long history with BMS and plays drums and the guitar and hopes to continue her musical journey through collage. Music has been such an important part of Sterling’s life for so many years and she believes that music is a tool for connecting generations and hopes to become a music teacher in the future.
This semester Sterling is the assistant stage manager for Shrek Jr. The Musical, and she recalled that one of the students came up to her and asked, if she can be the assistant, to the assistant stage manager, to me because she thought I was such an inspiration…
Stay tuned for more about Sterling and this new series!
BMS Backstage: Mentor Program + Damon DeGraff
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
The Mentor Program hosted a workshop with music producer and manager Damon DeGraff on Monday, October 17th, 2022. Damon is the CEO and partner of dGi Management, a New York-based management and production company that represents some of the industry's most elusive DJs. On Monday, he led a workshop for the teens in our professional youth development program in which he shared his own personal journey with music and music production.
The Mentor Program at BMS enables high school students to prepare for a career in music. Mentors receive instruction from professional musicians and artists through private lessons and ensembles, while also learning to become community leaders by mentoring younger BMS students and performing at various events throughout Brooklyn and beyond. Throughout the workshop, these mentors performed both individually and collectively. Damon in turn provided feedback and techniques to improve these performances from his own professional experience.
It was an honor to have Damon at BMS to lead a workshop for our Mentor Program students. His industry experience and knowledge were extremely valuable, and our teens appreciated his feedback on their individual performances. We appreciate him taking the time to mentor our young people and assist them in their professional musical journeys. Thank you for your time and generosity, Damon!
BMS Backstage: Celebrating International Music Day
For International Music Day (October 1st), we celebrate the power of music and its ability to inspire. Whether you’re a musician yourself or simply enjoy the beauty of music, we hope you'll take some time today to reflect on how music affects your life!
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS, the history, the community and by celebrating historical and contemporary aspects of music and the performing arts . Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
We at BMS believe in the power of music in uniting people and cultures, which is why this installment of Backstage is dedicated to International Music Day. International Music Day honors all forms of music and its ability to heal and unite communities. Yehudi Menuhin founded International Music Day in 1975 with the goal of making music and musical arts more accessible, encouraging peace, and the appreciation and mixing of cultures. All goals vital toward BMS’s mission as an institution.
The Brooklyn Music School believes that a vibrant and healthy arts community contributes to the borough's mental and physical well-being and fosters strong community connections in Brooklyn and beyond. And through our programming, we hope to develop students' musical abilities and expose them to individual artistic expression. We believe in the importance of music and its ability to promote diversity, ingenuity, and artistry. And when used correctly, it can be a tool for elevating humanity. International Music Day celebrates the very same ideals that we uphold at BMS every day. We hope that through our programming, we can inspire and broaden the horizons of our students, as well as instill a lifelong love of music in them.
Every International Music Day, we celebrate the power of music and its ability to inspire. Whether you’re a musician yourself or simply enjoy the beauty of music, we hope you'll take some time today to reflect on how music affects your life!
BMS Welcome Back Bash
"I love that BMS offers a space where artists of all ages and abilities are able to practice and discover what they are capable of!"
BMS Bashes are a celebration for our community and by our community.
Back to School Bash
““I love that BMS offers a space where artists of all ages and abilities are able to practice and discover what they are capable of!””
Flashing it back...
An evening of family, faculty, food and fun was a great way to kick off the fall season! BMS Bashes are a celebration for our community and by our community.
We extend a thousand thanks to the faculty and staff who organized this special event and to the friends and families who attended!
We hope to see you everyone at the next BASH taking place in October!
From the Executive Director
This summer was action packed with both returning and new programmatic efforts! Summer Music and Dance Institute ran from July through August, and ended with student performances. BMS also premiered the new community fundraiser, Beer & Beats that showcased adult students, faculty, and staff throughout local breweries. I also travelled to Paris to visit Ecole D’Art Musical, a music school with a similar feel to BMS. It is my intention to facilitate a cultural exchange program.
From the Desk of…
“ At BMS Brooklyn, the focus is providing quality, accessible performing arts programming to all those that wish to receive it and we believe that cultivating a healthy overall lifestyle is also paramount. ”
Running the streets of Paris!
This summer was action packed with both returning and new programmatic efforts! Summer Music and Dance Institute ran from July through August, and ended with student performances. BMS also premiered the new community fundraiser, Beer & Beats that showcased adult students, faculty, and staff throughout local breweries. I also travelled to Paris to visit Ecole D’Art Musical, a music school with a similar feel to BMS. It is my intention to facilitate a student exchange program.
Summer Institute 2022
Teaching in Paris.
We are excited about fall at BMS Brooklyn! With a new Curriculum Developer joining the staff in September the programming will evolve into effective and developmentally appropriate classes that align with our core values and state standards.
The BMS Artist in Residence program is hosting the second guest BMS’ own teaching artist, Emily Tepe, professionally known as IVA. BMS AIR allows our students a unique opportunity to experience a professional artist’s creative process and invites the community to make meaningful connections.
IVA: Summer 2021
Partnering with local organizations such as: Barclays Center, Bloomingdale School of Music, and Mark Morris Dance Group remains a priority. And renovations to this historic property are in always happening behind the scenes.
At BMS Brooklyn, are focus is providing quality, accessible performing arts programming to all those that wish to receive it and we believe that cultivating a healthy overall lifestyle is also paramount.
BMS Backstage: Discovery
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS’s history. Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
BMS Backstage
BMS Backstage is a new monthly series that takes our community behind the scenes and on a journey through BMS’s history. Anika Rahman our new and brilliant marketing intern explores contemporary and historical subjects through the lens of the building, programming, events and our local and global community connections.
For over a century, the Brooklyn Music School has provided performing arts education to the Fort Greene neighborhood and the greater Brooklyn community. Founded by a group of immigrants, BMS was created with the intention of making music performance and appreciation more accessible. Today, BMS still stands as a significant and diverse cultural institution. Generations of students have passed through its doors, learning about music, themselves, and about one another.
The fostering of community relationships through the love and appreciation of music and performing arts stands at the forefront of BMS’s mission. The Brooklyn Music School believes that a healthy arts community contributes to the overall mental and physical well-being of the borough and fosters strong community connections in Brooklyn and beyond.
Through our programming, BMS both preserves its original mission and encourages greater collaboration. Located in Fort Greene, BMS is part of the Downtown Brooklyn Cultural District and is a long-standing member of the National Guild of Community Schools of the Arts. Since 1928, BMS has been operating out of a historic four-story building in the Fort Greene neighborhood.
In recent years, Fort Greene has become recognized as a cultural hub of Brooklyn, hosting some of the most innovative music and performance in the city. The neighborhood is home to a diverse and vibrant community, with a variety of cultures surrounding the school. BMS's student body reflects our community, with students from a variety of cultural, and economic backgrounds. Our organization provides financial assistance to all families and children in order to make music and performing arts education affordable.
As we continue into our second century of service, the Brooklyn Music School looks forward to fostering even more community relationships and collaborations in Fort Greene and beyond. We are grateful for your continued support as we work to provide access to performing arts education for all who seek it. It is only thanks to our passionate faculty, talented students, and supportive community that we continue to thrive.
Donor's Den: François Leininger
Being an architect, I believe that access to culture and the arts is essential to one’s development and happiness. It should be a public service! BMS is the next best thing.
Donor’s Den
“Performing Arts have been central to my life. I have enjoyed attending live performances (opera, dance, rock concerts, theatre…) for most of my life.”
There are many ways to show your support of Brooklyn Music School. For some, this means volunteering their time; for others, this can mean spreading the news about BMS programming, or making a donation. Board member François Leininger prefers to spread his donations out, contributing on the same day each month to ensure BMS has support all year round. This is a wonderful way to contribute, and those who set up monthly giving can customize their donation to their specific needs and budgets. If you are able to donate even $5 a month for the rest of this year, it can make a huge difference.
François is a French architect and a Princeton alum. He has served on the Board of Directors at Brooklyn Music School since 2021. We sat down with him to understand why our organization is so meaningful to him.
What about BMS’ mission excites you?
Where to start? For me, the first important aspect is to be found in the mission statement of the school: “Making high quality performing arts instruction approachable and affordable to a wide range of students.” Why is it so important? Our cities have become less inclusive and more elitist than ever. When the cost of living in New York increases uncontrollably, cultural education, music, museums, and theatre become a luxury. Being an architect, I believe that access to culture and the arts is essential to one’s development and happiness. It should be a public service! BMS is the next best thing.
Additionally, I find BMS to be a beautiful, warm, charming, and totally unique educational environment. The building has a soul! BMS is a little bubble of diversity, of inclusion and culture, in the middle of a city that does not have enough of it. We need to nurture it and to support it.
Growing up, what was your relationship with performing arts?
Performing Arts have been central to my life. I have enjoyed attending live performances (opera, dance, rock concerts, theatre…) for most of my life. I was lucky enough to grow up with parents very fond of classical music and opera, and they had acquired a piano. None of us in the family were particularly skilled at playing it, but my parents had met a young man in the neighborhood who wanted to become a professional pianist. He was talented, but he was living in an apartment building with poor acoustic insulation (kind of like BMS!) and had issues with his neighbors. My parents moved the piano to a small room adjacent to our garage (still not acoustically insulated) and told him he could come and play whenever he wanted. He came to our home for many years. It was like having access to in-house live performances every day! He would sometimes practice Liszt or Rachmaninoff for 8 hours straight, including when I was trying to do my homework… He became a professional pianist and composer eventually, and we attended many of his concerts. This experience was foundational to me!
What’s the best way for someone to show their support for BMS?
Donating – When possible, is very important of course. But money is not the only way! I’d like to think that participation is essential too. Participation in the life of the school, via the many events and gatherings BMS organizes, at St Felix and beyond the walls. Attend the events and bring your friends with you! When they walk through this front door, chances are they will want to come back!
In fact, this is how it all started for me. I was invited by a friend to attend a school show at the Playhouse, six or seven years ago. My friend suggested a quick tour of the school beforehand, and soon enough, we found ourselves stuck in a tight stairwell crowded with kids and instruments coming from both ends! It reminded me of Alan Parker’s Fame. I was hooked! Now my daughter is a student at the school, and taking her to her class is a great part of my week. I sometimes sneak into the theatre with our younger son when the place is empty. We sit somewhere in the back. We talk about the theatre, the stage, the sets, the lights, the instruments, the clapping, and how wonderful it must be to perform in a place such as this one… Magical!
REGGAE BOYZ: A Jamaican Fairytale
A FUNdRAISER
“Growing up on the island of Jamaica, [I] was naturally always aware of the power of sport and music to unite people.”
Reggae Boyz: The History
Jamaica has always been a country full of music and soccer. The first football club was formed in 1910 as the Kingstone Cricket Club. And in 1925 the team had its first game against Haiti. Jamaica became independent in 1962 and during that same year the Jamaican Football Federation (JFF) became a member of FIFA. The team attempted to qualify for the 1966 FIFA World Cup after finishing first in a preliminary group. Almost a decade later, JFF almost qualified for the 1978 World Cup but was defeated by Cuba during the qualifying rounds. In 1995, The Jamaican Football Federation visited Zambia to play a friendly football match. It was during that visit the local media conceived the name “Reggae Boyz” naturally drawing connections with the music that originate in Jamaica and the football team. Two years later, on November 16, 1997, after three wins over El Salvador, Canada, and Costa Rica, Jamaica secured its first ever qualification for the1998 World Cup. November 16, 1997 is a significant day in Jamaican history for two reasons, one being the World Cup qualification. And second, as stated by the President of the Jamaican Football Federation, “not a single bullet was fired in the country.” And this is where the story of REGGAE BOYZ the documentary begins.
Reggae Boyz: The Documentary
“Do it for yourself, do it for your country. We qualified before and we can qualify again...” - Prime Minister Portia Simpson-Miller
On November 16, 1997, when Jamaica’s national soccer team – a.k.a. the “Reggae Boyz” – qualified for the 1998 World Cup, not a single bullet was fired despite Jamaica having one of the highest murder rates in the world. Mindful of this history, in 2017, Jamaica tries to inspire its populace by qualifying for the World Cup again. When their efforts start to fall short, Winnie Schäfer, a colorful German coach, enters the scene and forms an unlikely alliance with a Rastafarian factory worker named Jermaine “Tuffy” Anderson and legendary reggae musicians including Bunny Wailer and The NoMaddz to unite Jamaica beyond the soccer pitch. REGGAE BOYZ uses pop cultures’ most transcendent forces – sports and music – to delve into the heart and soul of Jamaica.
Sensing how much music and soccer are intertwined in Jamaica, Winnie visits Bunny Wailer – co-founder of “Bob Marley and the Wailers” – at the legendary musician’s home. Bunny not only introduces Winnie to the benefits of herbs, but he also suggests that putting Tuffy on the team will change Jamaica’s fortunes. Winnie takes the hint, calls up the factory worker, and together they manage to unite Jamaica beyond the soccer pitch, leading the Reggae Boyz on a path to success that culminates with their first-ever Gold Cup Finals in 2015 and 2017. REGGAE BOYZ is a romp through Jamaica’s heart and soul, where the journey is the goal.
REGGAE BOYZ producer Till Schauder, Romario Burrell, REGGAE BOYZ producer Sara Nodjoumi, Damon DeGraff and Brian Adamczyk
Photo Credit: Emery Major
Reggae Boyz: The Conversation
During the screening we were honored to have special guests Damon DeGraff and his friend Romario Burrell from Jamaica. Both participated in the q&a session of the screening. Here is a quote from Burrell and why his presence last week was significant!
“Growing up on the island of Jamaica, [I] was naturally always aware of the power of sport and music to unite people.”
Burrell’s was aware of how significant the Reggae Boyz story was regarding the history of Jamaica and how uplifting it would be for the culture from a local and global perspective. This was because his father was the President of the Jamaican Football Federation before, during and after the filming of the documentary – and he offered such an important perspective about the the Reggae Boyz origin story and why it truly was a fairytale!
IVA's Sommar Memories
Music has provided so much pure joy for me in my life and I want everyone to be able to experience that if they are game. And they need the exposure to all forms of music, and BMS provides that exposure. I also love the faculty and staff at BMS. It’s a fabulous group of talented, caring musicians.
BMS AIR
““I’m thrilled to be one of the [pioneer] artist to be part of this program. The program bridges the gap between the world of education at the Brooklyn Music School and the world of professional performing artists.””
IVA with a Midsommar Crown and Svensk Clothes
This is an interview with singer-songwriter IVA from New York and the new BMS Marketing Director Cecily Ferguson (who is based in Sweden). The interview is part of the artist in residence program.
Swedish Connections
Can you explain your connection to Sweden? My ancestors came to the New World in 1641 on the Kalmar Nyckel boat from Stockholm. My family traced our ancestry back to these Swedes and became very interested in their life in New Sweden. For this reason I applied for a Fulbright Scholarship after conservatory and traveled to Stockholm, Sweden, where I lived for six years and started my career as a pop and opera singer.
Arriving in Karlstad, Sweden during the summer of 2015 for the Swedish American of the Year ceremony.
How would you describe a Swedish summer? If it’s a good one (my first one wasn’t) it’s absolutely gorgeous for about two months. The weather is in the 70s and it’s light all day! It’s magical to see the about 20 minutes around midnight where the sky dims during June and July - the colors are incredible.
What is Midsommar and what is your favorite midsommar memory? Midsommar is an important holiday in Sweden where the Swedes celebrate the summer solstice - June 21st. It involves eating delicious Swedish food like different types of herring, Vasterbotten pie, and plenty of schnapps, which means drinking songs will be sung. My favorite Midsommar memory is going to to an island in the archipelago with my family and seeing the Swedes wear traditional costumes and dance around the Midsommarstånger, which is like our May pole.
Swedish summer in the archipelago with housemate Adam.
Do you have a favorite Swedish Sommar song? Det kom ett brev - poem by Pär Lagerqvist with music by Gunnar de Frumerie. I had the chance to sing this beautiful song at the Musik vid Siljan festival in Dalarna, Sweden, while staying at the home of the late Swedish composer Hugo Alvén. The song is about the timelessness of a mother’s garden and the feeling her child gets when reading her letter, as it’s infused with all she is experiencing at home and all the child remembers from its childhood. The melody and words are absolutely gorgeous.
Can you compare sommar vibes between Stockholm and NYC? Stockholm is much cooler in temperature and so people can wear their best clothing and makeup. Everyone is Stockholm is usually very happy in the summer and if it’s a nice day they take the entire day off and go outside. I can’t imagine a New Yorker doing this as we have so many sunny days in the summer. Stockholmers live for good weather and make time for it.
BMS Brooklyn Artist in Residence
IVA Voice
What do you think about AIRS programs in general? I’m thrilled to be one of the [pioneer] artist to be part of this program. The program bridges the gap between the world of education at the Brooklyn Music School and the world of professional performing artists. I hope it will give students a chance to see artists at work and understand more what a musical life looks like. I also hope it will bring more awareness of Brooklyn Music School to the community, to New York, and to all of the places where I and other artists perform and work.
As the 2nd artist in residence, what is the most exciting aspect of the BMS AIRS program? So far it has been performing a reading of my first libretto and having the chance to share a new aspect of my writing which is opera. We had a hybrid performance both live and on Zoom and it was thrilling for the performers and the audience members. I was so grateful to have the use of the beautiful theatre and the fabulous technical support.
Can you explain your sommar process, with this question I am assuming it might be different in the fall or winter for example? In the summer I have less students so I am able to focus more on my performing and writing. This summer I finished a record and prepared for its release as well as gave more performances in New York. I also get more rest in the summer with trips to the beach … ahhhhh.
What was the most exciting part of your summer from an AIRS perspective? Laying the groundwork for an AIRS performance in Paris, which we are working towards in April 2023.
What does BMS mean to you? It’s a community of artists where students can have lessons no matter how much they are able to afford. It’s vital to have music education available to as many students as possible as many schools have defunded their music programs. Music has provided so much pure joy for me in my life and I want everyone to be able to experience that if they are game. And they need the exposure to all forms of music, and BMS provides that exposure. I also love the faculty and staff at BMS. It’s a fabulous group of talented, caring musicians.
The New heartBEATS Spring Gala
BMS believes that a healthy arts community contributes to the overall mental and physical well-being of the borough while also fostering strong community connections. Contributions and funds raised from the New heartBEATS Gala will enhance programming such as early childhood music education, after-school programs, music therapy, dance, and musical theater. They will further support the borough’s schools, community centers, and senior centers by helping to sustain Brooklyn as a thriving arts community.
“What an amazing night! Brooklyn Music School is a special place! ”
Last Wednesday, the Brooklyn Music School held its annual fundraising event on the rooftop terrace of the Brooklyn Children's Museum. The night was a celebration of both music and performance in all of its forms, but this year with a new purpose. The New heartBEATS Fundraising Gala this year launched a new initiative at the Brooklyn Music School, emphasizing the importance of health and wellbeing in the arts and within the Brooklyn community.
BMS believes that a healthy arts community contributes to the overall mental and physical well-being of the borough while also fostering strong community connections. Contributions and funds raised from the New heartBEATS Gala will enhance programming such as early childhood music education, after-school programs, music therapy, dance, and musical theater. They will further support the borough’s schools, community centers, and senior centers by helping to sustain Brooklyn as a thriving arts community.
Our gala not only launched this new initiative of promoting healthy arts but also celebrated both our internal and external BMS communities. The night honored singer-songwriter Maya Azucena, bass guitarist Melvin Gibbs, drummer John Stanier, and producer Damon DeGraff. As well as, established the Dr. Leon Gunther Legacy Award which aims to honor Brooklyn Music School community members that go above and beyond to support the BMS mission. Hope Kelly was this year's honoree! You can read more about the origin of this award and Dr. Leon Gunther, whose history with BMS is quite exciting here.
Melvin Gibbs Don Mackenzie and DJ Logic
The night was full of fun, laughter, and good company as we enjoyed distinguished artists performances throughout the evening. We watched Melvin Gibbs and Don Mackenzie perform and listened to Damn DeGraff speak.
Damon DeGraff
We were also serenaded by Tesla String Quartet violinists Dr. Michelle Lie and Gloria Lee. Audrey Borst of the Brooklyn Ballet performed a ballet performance, while New York City painter Lauren Kelisha Muller painted a live painting throughout the gala, which was later auctioned off at the end of the night. The gala also highlighted the Brooklyn Music School’s own creative community.
We would like to thank everyone who came out to celebrate with us last night. It was an exciting night and we are delighted to see what the future holds for the Brooklyn Music School. A big thank you goes out to our BMS family, the Board of Directors, the BMS community, the new heartBEATS honorees, the Brooklyn community-at-large, and all the donors and sponsors who helped make the night possible. We hope to see you all again soon!
The Past is Now the Present: Dr. Leon Gunther Legacy Award
Entering the building on St. Felix St. each Saturday morning warmed by body and soul - I was awed by the woodwork that caressed the spaces.
The Brooklyn Music School introduced the Dr. Leon Gunther Legacy Award this year at our New heartBEATS Fundraising Gala. Dr. Leon Gunther is a former Brooklyn Music School student, the author of The Physics of Music and Color: Sound and Light, and a Tufts University physics professor emeritus. Dr. Gunther attended the Brooklyn Music School nearly seventy years ago at the age of eight. Below he describes BMS's impact as an institution as a young child.
Brian Adamczyk + Dr. Leon Gunther
Photo Credit: Collis Torrington
“Entering the building on St. Felix St. each Saturday morning warmed by body and soul - I was awed by the woodwork that caressed the spaces. I could hear advanced students playing from distant rooms and hoped that someday I might play as well as they. BMS’s children orchestra was the very first orchestra I played in - I recall our playing an arrangement of the theme from the last movement of Brahms’ Symphony no. 1 that I adore so much.
While I am a theoretical physicist, I am also an amateur musician, thanks to the Brooklyn Music School. Music fills my life, as I am sure that attending the BMS will help make it so for you too, whatever will be your profession.
”
Dr. Leon Gunther
Photo Credit: Collis Torrington
This year, we honor Dr. Leon Gunther for inspiring the Brooklyn Music School community. The Legacy Award aims to recognize members of the Brooklyn Music School community who go above and beyond to commit themselves to the BMS mission.
Hope Kelly
Photo Credit: Collis Torrington
This year’s recipient is Hope Kelly. Thank you Hope for all that you do and thank you Dr. Gunter for your legacy and dedication toward our community!
Promoting Healthy Arts & Healthy Hearts
This year members of the Brooklyn Music School family participated in the Brooklyn Marathon and ran with thousands of half marathoners and marathoners for the annual NYC Runs Brooklyn Marathon and Half Marathon.
This year members of the Brooklyn Music School community participated in the Brooklyn Marathon and ran with thousands of half marathoners and marathoners for the annual NYC Runs Brooklyn Marathon and Half Marathon.
BMS is committed to promoting healthy hearts and healthy arts, please join us as we kick off our new #promotinghealthyarts campaign that will articulate how important it is to support the arts and will celebrate all the health benefits that art education offers to individuals and the community on a whole.