The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, in partnership with Latin GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter and GRAMMY-nominated Noel Schajris, will invest $40,000 in an educational experience, including a donation of musical instruments to Overton High School in Memphis.
This investment in music education marks the 41st time the Foundation has hosted a Latin GRAMMY In The Schools. The recent program featured a musical performance with the Argentine Mexican singer-songwriter Noel Schajris, along with a Q&A session with students, moderated by Jessica Rodríguez, co-host of Univision’s top-rated morning show, Despierta América (Wake-Up America).
"We all know how important art and music are in our lives; in my personal case, it has been a lifesaver, a friend, a love, and even the doctor during many important moments,” says Noel Schajris. “This is an important opportunity for the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation to share with those who will undoubtedly carry that torch of hope, the kids, the future generations. Surely we will draw wonderful conclusions and certainties from this event; always with truth and love as our banner.”
Greg Campbell/Getty Images for the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation
(L-R) Jessi Rodriguez and Latin GRAMMY artist Noel Schajris attend Latin GRAMMY In The Schools
The Creative and Performing Arts Program at Overton High School was developed to nurture artistic talent within its diverse student population, including an array of offerings: various bands, orchestras, choirs, dance, creative writing, broadcasting, and visual arts, each contributing significantly to students' artistic development and collaborative experiences. To ensure its continual growth and enrichment, there's a pressing need for resources and educational experiences. With this donation of instruments, Overton plans to grow its music education programming, enhancing and expanding the experience of future generations of music creators.
“We are beyond thrilled and ecstatic to receive this musical instrument donation and educational resources for the Overton Band Program,” says Juan Valdez, senior band director at Overton High School. “Through the students' hard work, we have many award-winning ensembles, including Wind Ensemble, CAPA Choir, Jazz Band, Orchestra, Piano, and Marching Band. This generous contribution will allow our students' work to continue to be seen and heard all across the Mid-South. ¡Muchas gracias!”
Greg Campbell/Getty Images for the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation
Jessi Rodriguez (L) and Latin GRAMMY artist Noel Schajris (R) speak with a student onstage during Latin GRAMMY In The Schools
An educational program that informs and connects music students with professionals in the Latin music industry, Latin GRAMMY In The Schools supports educational music departments that have financial limitations. Through its partnership with artists and music professionals sharing their stories with middle and high schoolers in music education, the goal is for students to learn to optimize the educational opportunities presented to them, giving them an advantage and strong academic preparation to be able to compete in the music industry.
“As we celebrate the 41st Latin GRAMMY In The Schools, we're grateful for the ongoing support and partnership of our donors in making access to music education possible, positively impacting the lives of youth,” says Raquel “Rocky” Egusquiza, executive director of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation. “It means a lot to count on the commitment of our partners, including Noel Schajris, as we guide the next generation of Latin music creators through unique educational experiences like these and empower communities through Latin music and culture.”
Since its inception, the Latin GRAMMY In The Schools program has benefited schools in the United States, such as Aransas Pass, Dallas, Detroit, Kansas City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, New York, and San Antonio; as well as internationally in Buenos Aires, Argentina; Mexico City, Mexico; Arecibo, Humacao, Yauco, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Seville, Spain.
To learn more about the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, visit latingrammyculturalfoundation.org/en.