“Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.” ~ Plato
All music begins as a heartbeat.
Before it gets to the radio, it is frequently inundated with trite clichés, loud guitar riffs, cowbell and more cowbell…but it starts as a heartbeat; a primal pulse. It is a means of communication, expression and celebration that is vital to the evolution of humankind.
Countless studies have shown that children who participate in student music programs score higher on standardized tests (particularly on the math and English portions) and have significantly higher attendance rates. The importance of music to the overall health of the community can’t be understated.
There are many groups throughout Middle Tennessee that understand that concept, and several are working together this month to increase awareness about the opportunities and facilities available in Murfreesboro.
Youth Empowerment through Arts and Humanities (YEAH) is a non-profit organization that provides a multitude of music and arts programs designed to empower teenagers with self-confidence and a sense of community service. Since 2006, they have offered year-round classes, summer camps, and a safe, all-ages venue for teens to perform and enjoy live music.
On Friday, Nov. 4, in conjunction with the Tennessee Arts Commission and several MTSU student organizations, YEAH will be hosting an evening with Nashville’s JEFF the Brotherhood. This raucous duo has been mesmerizing fans nationwide with their intense live shows and their independent record label, Infinity Cat Records, is a potential “how-to” model for independent artists looking to find success in a rapidly changing music business.
The event will be held at Murfreesboro’s state-of-the-art recording studio and concert hall, The Walnut House. There will be a free question-and-answer session with representatives from Infinity Cat at 7:30 p.m., followed by a benefit concert by JEFF the Brotherhood. Tickets for the show are $10, and a $2 discount will be given to MTSU students who attend the Q & A session.
Going to listen to live music is probably my favorite pastime, but in this instance, it is also a great way to pass the future to the children in our community.
