Youth Volume is an organization that helps youth ages 3 to 18 learn to play violin and cello, intending to make better people by utilizing the Suzuki method. The next step is to improve music studio teachers with an online cohort program called "GEMS."
The GEMS (Growing Equitable Music Studios) program is led virtually by Marquette resident Clara Hardie. The six weeks of online coaching will help music studio teachers take five action steps to work on equity in their teaching: Clarify Studio Culture, Grow Diversity, Expand Access, Elevate Inclusion, and Employ Equity Pedagogy. Each step is discussed in the virtual coaching sessions with Summer GEMS 2024 from June 17 through July 26 on Mondays and Fridays, 9-11 a.m. EST. The sessions culminate with the "GEMS Graduation Week," an open-to-the-public think tank.
Kurt Hauswirth spoke again with Clara by phone:
Youth Volume's mission is to celebrate youth, culture, and community-building through music. Students grow "RICH" Changemaker Skills: Resilience, Innovation, Collaboration, and Higher Order Thinking. These skills are developed using the Suzuki method and social justice practices, or "Equity Pedagogy." Both in-person and remote learning are a part of Youth Volume, with students in Marquette and Detroit.
Visit youthvolume.org/ for more information, including enrollment, cost, and financial aid options. Donations to Youth Volume can be made at the Youth Volume website under the Donate tab.
