A letter from GEMS’ Founder Gene Murrow…
Dear GEMS Community Members,
As patrons of the arts, you should know about Intersection Music and Arts Inc. (IMA), a new up-and-coming 501(c)(3) non-profit music education organization. IMA does the critical work of developing the future audiences on which our musical culture depends by bringing “Children and Musicians Together.” I serve on the board of directors, along with GEMS’ Paul Ross, professor of music Orly Krasner, and the founder and director, Minda Cowen (pictures at right).
In the garden of St. John’s in the Village, Post Recital
IMA, a “Music School Without Walls,” brings high-quality music education to children throughout NYC in a variety of ways, primarily offering lessons in families’ apartments, with IMA students then performing all over the city. We also do free programming in NYC public schools, donate countless free music lessons to public schools, give scholarships for families in need, and create community outreach programs for potential budding new musicians and young audience members alike.
….and Newsflash! We have some exciting musical events lined up for our GEMS community members to bring their young friends to attend:
March 21st, IMA offers an Instrument Petting Zoo where children can listen to the children’s librarian read a music themed story, listen to a mini performance by some of our students, and then try out the violin, guitar, and piano for the first time with other interested families, guided by IMA’s expert instructors. The 53rd Street Library, 3–5 pm. Sign up is needed closer to date, and free. REGISTER HERE
July 1st, Lincoln Center, in the LeFrak Lobby of David Geffen Hall, we will have a Storytime for families as part of the Summer for the City series. This year, the theme will be celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, and we will be doing so with a performance of Americana folk music (fiddle, banjo, piccolo etc.) where children can first “Meet the Instruments” and then join in on the fun with the rhythm instruments provided. Showtimes at 11 am and 1 pm. Free and open to the public.
Happy piano player!
Do check the NYPL and Lincoln Center websites as we get closer to these dates. We will also put direct links to them in our newsletter when they occur.
If you know a “little GEM” (young person) who may be interested in learning an instrument, IMA’s Spring semester is now starting with rolling admission. For more information on instrument lessons click here or email the director, Minda Cowen at intersectionartsnyc@gmail.com for sign up info and any inquiries.
If you believe in IMA’s mission and wish to support us with a donation, click here.
Sincerely,
Gene Murrow
Chairman, Gotham Early Music Scene
Student learning violin at home
Siblings playing duets at home!
From (L–R) Board Members Minda Cowen, Gene Murrow, Paul Ross & Orly Krasner
