The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation, in conjunction with Latin GRAMMY-winning and GRAMMY-nominated singer/songwriter Noel Schajris, will invest $40,000 in an educational experience, including a donation of musical instruments to Overton High School in Memphis.
This is the 41st time that the Foundation hosts a Latin GRAMMY In The Schools. The program will feature 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. 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," said Schajris.
"I am honored to share my life experience and especially the last few years in charge of my own record label Dynamo Producciones and more recently with my own digital platform and App NSMUSIC. Surely we will draw wonderful conclusions and certainties from this event; always with truth and love as our banner," he continued.
The Creative and Performing Arts Program at Overton High School was developed to nurture artistic talent within its diverse student population. The program includes a wide range of offerings, including various bands, orchestras, choirs, dance, creative writing, broadcasting, and visual arts, each contributing significantly to students' artistic development and collaborative experiences.
This program provides students with invaluable opportunities they might not otherwise access. But to ensure its continual growth and enrichment, there's a pressing need for resources and educational experiences. The school will use the new instruments 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," Juan Valdez, Overton HS Senior Band Director, said in a statement. "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!"
"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. 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," said Raquel "Rocky" Egusquiza, Executive Director of the Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation.
Since its inception the Latin GRAMMY In The Schools program has benefited schools in U.S. cities 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.
Latin GRAMMY In The Schools is an educational program that informs and connects music students with professionals in the Latin music industry and supports educational music departments that have financial limitations.
The Foundation invites artists and professional musicians to visit middle and high schools or music education institutions to share their personal stories and experiences with students that highlight the effort it takes to overcome career obstacles. 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.
Previous artists who have participated in the program include: Ángela Aguilar, David Bisbal, Marilina Bertoldi, Miguel Bosé, Calle 13, Pedro Capó, Camilo, Chino & Nacho, Chiquis, Luis Coronel, Silvestre Dangond, Joss Favela, Fonseca, Luis Fonsi, El Fantasma, Becky G, Karol G, Kany García, Gente de Zona, Leslie Grace, Carlos Jean, Jesse & Joy, Natalia Lafourcade, Poncho Lizárraga, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Mau y Ricky, Claudia Montero, Ednita Nazario, Christian Nodal, Laura Pausini, Ángel "Cucco" Peña, Mireya Ramos, Prince Royce, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Olga Tañón, Thalía, Christian Serratos, Diego Torres, Carlos Vives, Wisin, and Sebastián Yatra.
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