DEAR FRIENDS
It gives me great pleasure to welcome you all to the Atlanta Music Project’s 16th season. For those of you who may not know, our first program, back in 2010, was a small but mighty after-school orchestra program at the Gilbert House, a City of Atlanta Recreation Center in Southwest Atlanta. We had 30 elementary school students attending five days per week, in class for two hours each day! I remember being so inspired by their enthusiasm and natural ability. I was also grateful for their parents, who had the courage to entrust their children to a brand new organization. The teaching artists we hired were not just absolute professionals, they were fully behind our mission to empower youth to realize their possibilities through music.
Sixteen years later, those three groups - students, families, and teaching artists - remain the heart of our success. If they are the heart, our donors are our lungs. Donors breathe life into our vision that music training can lead to life-changing outcomes for youth. Without our cherished donors, AMP would simply not exist. Therefore, they have our ever-lasting gratitude. Tonight’s concert represents all the best parts of AMP coming together. The young musicians of our current youth orchestras and choirs have taken on the repertoire and coachings of our faculty with remarkable courage and artistry. I’m excited to follow their progress throughout this season. Thank you to you all for your continued involvement and support. Cheers to 16!
With Gratitude,
Dantes Rameau, Co-Founder & CEO
Atlanta Music Project INSTITUTIONAL DONORS
Funding provided in part by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners under the guidance of the Department of Community Development.
Major funding for this organization is provided by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.
This program is supported in part by the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs.
HISTORY OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORA
The history of the African Diaspora and its profound influence on the world’s music is a captivating narrative that spans centuries and continents. Originating in the vibrant and diverse musical traditions of Africa, the journey begins with rhythms and melodies that would later transcend geographical boundaries.
The brutal era of the transatlantic slave trade witnessed the forced displacement of millions, yet within the harsh conditions of enslavement, African captives preserved their cultural identity through music. Spirituals and work songs emerged, laying the groundwork for the rich tapestry of musical expressions that would follow.
In the Caribbean and South America, the rhythmic beats of the Diaspora became intrinsic to the development of musical genres such as reggae, salsa, and samba. Enslaved Africans played a pivotal role, infusing their cultural heritage into the music of these regions. The fusion of African rhythms with indigenous and European influences in Latin America gave birth to unique genres like Afro-Cuban jazz and bossa nova, reflecting a harmonious blending of diverse musical elements.
In North America, the African Diaspora played a pivotal role in shaping iconic musical genres. The soulful strains of blues, the improvisational spirit of jazz, and the uplifting sounds of gospel music were all born out of the African American experience. The struggles for civil rights and the urban experience found expression in the revolutionary rise of hip-hop and rap, marking a cultural turning point that resonates globally.
In the contemporary era, the influence of the African Diaspora on music remains vibrant. Artists continue to blend traditions, pushing the boundaries of genres and embracing innovation. The global fusion of styles reflects the interconnectedness of cultures, showcasing the enduring impact of the diaspora on the ever-evolving world of music.
Celebrating the diversity and unity forged through this musical journey is essential. The African Diaspora’s legacy is not merely a historical artifact but a living, breathing force that shapes the cultural landscape. As we immerse ourselves in the melodies and rhythms born from the diaspora, we honor resilient and creative people whose contributions echo through the corridors of time.
The history of the African Diaspora and music is a testament to the power of cultural exchange, the strength of the human spirit, and the ability of music to bridge gaps and unite hearts across the globe.
ATLANTA MUSIC PROJECT BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Philip M. Juravel, CPA, Chair
Jennifer Dorian, Vice-Chair
Byron Gibbs, Treasurer
Racheal Woods, Secretary
Sarah Griesenauer-Barros, Ben Cherian, Anne Cross, Deva Hirsch, Valerie L. Holmes, James F. Lock III, Aaron C. Mitchell, Ceasar C. Mitchell Jr.,
Aisha Moody, Shawn Pacely, Elijah Brown, Dantes Rameau, John Sparrow
ATLANTA MUSIC PROJECT STAFF
Aisha Moody, Co-Founder & Chief Program Officer
Amber Taylor, Associate Director of AMP Academy
Breanna Johnson, Director of Choral Programs
Cruz Duhart, Operations Associate
Dantes Rameau, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Dennis Freeman, Van Driver
D’Laney Bowry, Development & Grants Manager
Durand Bailey, Senior Director of Operations
Isaiah Cuffey, Preparatory School Program Manager
Jack W. Wagner, Director of Grants
José L. Morales, Marketing & Graphic Design Associate
Lauren Jones, Program Operations Associate
Lauren Spence, Executive Assistant to the Chief Executive Officer
Liesl McWhorter, Youth Orchestras Program Manager
Lydia Falcon, After-School Programs Associate
Michael Crawford, Facilities Manager
Miriam Huppert, Director of College & Career Services
Nassareen Rahman, Van Driver
Ron Pace, Finance Manager
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL I
Dr. Byul Nim “Bea” La | Collaborative Pianist
Suite.....................................................................................William Grant Still II. Mother and Child trans. Timothy Holley
Priya Gingrich, cello Studio of Ismail Akbar
“My Good Lord’s Done Been Here” ...........................African-American Spiritual arr. Moses Hogan
Maya Winfrey, mezzo-soprano Studio of Laura English-Robinson
Sonata II in A Major, Op. 1a ............Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges I. Allegro moderato
Shani Gingrich, violin Studio of Dr. Lana Teko
Three Spirituals........................................................G.N. Allen, Thomas Dorsey
I. Precious Lord, Take My Hand arr. Sir Wick
Joel Patrick, trombone Studio of Dr. Calvin Morris
Nightsongs................................................................Music by H. Leslie Adams
I. Prayer Text by Langston Hughes
Thais El-Amin, soprano
Studio of Ibukun Babalola
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL I
Dr. Byul Nim “Bea” La | Collaborative Pianist
The Wanderer..........................................................................Alexander Fesca
Preston Harris, french horn Studio of Dilon Bryan
Five Fairy Ballads..........................................Music by Samuel Coleridge Taylor III. “Big Lady Moon” Text by Kathleen Easmon
Alexander Beaty, baritone Studio of Ibukun Babalola
Kalimba......................................................................................Raynor Carroll
Kori Harmon, timpani Studio of Dominic Ryder
“Ain’t-a That Good News!” ......................................African-American Spiritual arr. Uzee Brown Jr.
Da’janel Chatmon, soprano Studio of Laura English-Robinson
24 Negro Melodies, Op. 59............................................Samuel Coleridge Taylor X. Deep River trans. Maud Powell
Foster Wilson, violin Studio of Kerren Berz
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL II
Eli Manos | Collaborative Pianist
Michael Danielson | Bass Alek Gayton | Drums
Bassoon Set ........................................................................Adolphus Hailstork
I. Moderato con anima
III. Lento e teneramente
Shanae Cousley, bassoon Studio of Dantes Rameau
4 African Dances, Op. 58 ............................................Samuel Coleridge-Taylor II. Andantino molto sostenuto e dolce
Marlee Carter, violin Studio of Kerren Berz
Five Songs of Laurence Hope..........................Music by Harry Thacker Burleigh I. “Worth While” Text by Laurence Hope
Lauren Hunter, soprano Studio of Ethan Godfrey
Aria..........................................................................................H. Leslie Adams
Preston Walton, cello Studio of Yuliya Kim
Southern Love Songs, Op.12.........................................Samuel Coleridge-Taylor II. Tears (A Lament) arr. Andrew Sehmann
Samuel Leyimu, clarinet Studio of Andrew Warwick
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL II
Eli Manos | Collaborative Pianist
Michael Danielson
| Bass Alek Gayton | Drums
Southland Sketches ....................................................Harry Thacker Burleigh I. Andante
Ta’Kari Tatum, violin Studio of Julie Saxton
“God Bless the Child”........................................Arthur Herzog Jr., Billie Holiday
Camille Childers, alto Studio of Keeyen Martin
Cello Sonata No. 1 .............................................................................Kevin Day II. Lento
David Walton, cello Studio of Yuliya Kim
“Summer Soft”...........................................................................Stevie Wonder arr. Andrew Geher
Joshua Banks, baritone Studio of Pamela Dillard
Sonata for Oboe & Piano ..................................................Brian Raphael Nabors III. Con moto
Nehemiah Preston, oboe Studio of Natalie Beckenbaugh
AMP’s 2026 GMEA All-state accolades
The Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) hosts a yearly All-State Festival for musicians throughout the State of Georgia. This festival is composed of young musicians who succesfully passed both rounds of the All-State audition process. It should be known that this process is competitive and requires a high level of musicianship and skill. For Returning AMP Academy Students, this opportunity is prioritized because we believe it contributes to our students’ development and musical growth. It is our belief that students who successfully pass and participate in GMEA’s All State Festival are likely to be well prepared to audition for colleges and summer festivals both locally and internationally.
Since August 1st, AMP Academy student’s have worked alongside AMP Faculty through clinics, mock auditions, and weekly private lessons to prepare for GMEA All-State Festival. We are beyond proud and thrilled to see our AMP students participate in All-State this year and look forward to look forward to working with AMP Faculty and families collaborating with Faculty and Families to empower our students to succeed.
ALL-STATE ENSEMBLES:
GMEA 11/12 Full Orchestra
Priya Gingrich, cello (fourth chair), Grade 12
Studio of Ismail Akbar
GMEA 11/12 String Orchestra
Foster Wilson, violin (3rd chair), Grade 11
Studio of Kerren Berz
GMEA All-State 9/10 String Orchestra
Andrew Atkinson, viola (1st chair), Grade 9
Recent Pre-Academy Admittance
David Walton, violin (7th chair), Grade 10
Studio of Yuliya Kim
GMEA All-State 9/10 Concert Band
Shanae Cousley, bassoon, Grade 10
Studio of Dantes Rameau
GMEA All-State Middle School Orchestra
Ayla Gingrich, violin, Grade 7
Recent Pre-Academy Admittance
GMEA All State Concert Band 2
Samuel Leyimu, clarinet, Grade 10
Studio of Andrew Warwick
DISTRICT HONOR ENSEMBLES:
District High School Honor Band: Leighlah West, flute, Grade 11
Studio of Matthieu Clave
Chineye Emenogu, oboe, Grade 11
Studio of Natalie Beckenbaugh
Nehemiah Preston, oboe (1st chair), Grade 10
Studio of Natalie Beckenbaugh
Samuel Leyimu, clarinet, Grade 10
Studio of Andrew Warwick
Shanae Cousley, bassoon, Grade 10
Studio of Dantes Rameau
Ethan Crawford, trumpet, Grade 9
Studio of Douglas Escobar
District Middle School Honor Band:
Preston Harris, french horn, Grade 8
Studio of Dilon Bryan
Dave Anderson, percussion, Grade 8
Studio of Dominic Ryder
Jameson Olowoyo, french horn, Grade 8, Studio of Dilon Bryan
AMP ACADEMY RECITALS
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL I | FEB 7 | 5PM | THE AMP CENTER
AMP ACADEMY RECITAL II | FEB 8 | 4PM | THE AMP CENTER
AFTER-SCHOOL ORCHESTRAS
PERKERSON PARK STRINGS & SOUTH BEND CENTER WINDS
FEB 27 | 7pm | THE AMP
CENTER
AMP YOUTH CHOIRS
AMP JUNIOR & SENIOR YOUTH CHOIRS
FEB 28 | 4pm | CHURCH AT WIEUCA
AMP YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
AMP JUNIOR & SENIOR YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
FEB 28 | 7:30pm | CHURCH AT WIEUCA
the atlanta music project mission and history
Founded in 2010, the Atlanta Music Project (AMP) provides world-class music training and performance opportunities supporting youth growth and development. Operating in under-resourced communities, AMP’s mission is to empower youth to realize their possibilities through music.
AMP serves over 1,000 young musicians annually through band, orchestra, and choir programs, private lessons, and the annual month-long AMP Summer Series. The AMP Senior Youth Orchestras and Choirs perform and compete both nationally and internationally. Additionally, AMP houses a college and career program, supporting AMP high school students and alumni. Since 2021, AMP has awarded $545,000 in college scholarships to its alumni.
AMP music ensembles perform more than 60 concerts annually, performing in venues all across Atlanta, from community centers to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. AMP music ensembles have performed alongside international stars such as cellist Sterling Elliott, rapper Lecrae, operatic baritone Edward Parks, R&B singer Monica, The Piano Guys, the Harlem Quartet, electric violinist Lindsey Stirling, pianist Terrence Wilson, and the Imani Winds. AMP musicians can be seen performing with rapper T.I. on NPR’s Tiny Desk concert series.
AMP’s young musicians have successfully auditioned for Georgia All-State ensembles, and performed with the Atlanta Opera, the Atlanta Ballet, and the Fox Theatre. AMP ensembles have concertized as far away as Los Angeles, Aspen, Mexico, Canada, and New Zealand. The AMP Senior Youth Choir was crowned winner of the Youth Choirs category at the Open Competition of the 2024 World Choirs Games.
AMP is the recipient of several prestigious awards: 2015 Local Community Service Award (Spelman College), 2016 Neighborhood Builder (Bank of America), 2016 & 2017 Top 50 Youth Arts Program (USA President’s Committee on the Arts & Humanities), 2018 MLK Jr. Community Service Award (Emory University), 2019 Luminary Award for Arts Education (ArtsATL), and 2021 Infusion Award (Lewis Prize for Music).
AMP’s current major funders include the Chestnut Family Foundation, Intuit Mailchimp, the Abraham J. & Phyllis Katz Foundation, the Harland Charitable Foundation, the Arthur M. Blank Foundation, The Rich’s Foundation, the Sartain Lanier Foundation, the Luluma Foundation, Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, Fulton County Arts Council, Georgia Council for the Arts, Georgia Department of Education, Bloomberg Philanthropies, Delta Community Credit Union, the Next Generation Fund, and the Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta.
In 2024, AMP became the recipient of five Steinway pianos and was awarded the prestigious honor of being a Steinway Select School, making AMP one of eight schools in the country with this distinction.
AMP’s partners and collaborators include the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation, Atlanta Public Schools, Clayton State University, and the Chestnut Family Foundation.
AMP’s existence is a direct result of the 2009 TED Prize, which was awarded to Dr. Jose Antonio Abreu, founder of Venezuela’s El Sistema. AMP’s co-founders were members of the Sistema Fellows Program at the New England Conservatory in Boston. AMP is a member of “El Sistema USA,” the National Alliance of El Sistema Inspired Programs.
For more information visit http://www.atlantamusicproject.org
YOUNG MUSICIAN PATHWAYS
& CAREER SCHOLARSHIPS, EMPLOYMENT, ADVISING
ADVANCED PROGRAMS
AMP SENIOR YOUTH ORCHESTRA & CHOIR
INTERNATIONAL TOURS & COMPETITIONS
COLLEGE & CAREER SERVICES
INTERMEDIATE PROGRAMS
AMP JUNIOR YOUTH ORCHESTRAS
AMP JUNIOR YOUTH CHOIRS
PREPARATORY PROGRAMS
AMP AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS
AMP PREPARATORY SCHOOL
EMPOWERING YOUTH TO REALIZE THEIR POSSIBILITIES THROUGH MUSIC
