Jazz Ensemble Performs for Columbus Elementary School

Young Musicians of Westchester inaugural program was a huge success! Over 100 students from Columbus Elementary School enjoyed meeting a jazz quintet from Purchase College’s Music Conservatory on Monday, Feb 13, for a fun hour of music by Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, and others followed by a long Q and A session.

Young Musicians of Westchester’s first program supported the New Rochelle Public Library’s efforts to bring children into the Library to meet performing artists. The concert’s Harlem Renaissance theme was suggested by Columbus’ music teacher, Courtney Bullen, as part of the school’s celebration of Black History Month.

The children were completely engaged and actively participated. When asked by a quintet member whether they’d ever heard of Charlie Parker, 100 hands instantly shot into the air!

YMW’s thanks go to Columbus School’s music teacher and principal, the Music Conservatory’s students, faculty and administrators, and the Library’s community liaison team for their tremendous efforts in making the program happen. We’re looking forward to a second program this spring which will feature music of Mexico.

You can download the program here and you can read about the concert on the Purchase College Conservatory of Music website