Today, EMMA Concert Association was honored to welcome musician Ron Pen through funding from our Jack Page Projects Fund. Mr. Pen visited three of music teacher Trey Brewer’s music classes at St. Augustine High School, and gave students some pointers as well as spearheaded a few jam sessions along with Mr. Brewer and EMMA’s very own Tommy Bledsoe. Mr. Pen, who received his PhD from the University of Kentucky in 1987 and has focused much of his musical career in the area of American vernacular music with an emphasis on the music and culture of the Southern Appalachian region, told the students, “Music is really powerful when you hear it live.” EMMA is excited to continue to support music in schools!
Keep your ears open for additional news regarding our 3rd Annual Painted Violin Fundraiser, which we postponed last year and will be unveiling this coming fall. The violin, which was donated by Fre Gordon of 5th Century Music, was painted by local artist Teri Tompkins, who created the work of art inspired by magical masterpiece, “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik.” All money raised from this great fundraiser will go to EMMA’s Jack Page Projects Fund to support school outreach programs. Stay tuned for more information!
