Empowering Communities, One Note At A Time.
JUMP! (Just for U Music Program) is a student-led outreach initiative, dedicated to creating a real impact with classical music. Through education, thoughtful programming, and interactive concerts, JUMP! brings music to life in our Houston community. This year, the program is coordinated by bassoonist Kahlan Yenney, with the mentorship and support of faculty member Janet Rarick.
Conceived by wind chamber students and faculty over 20 years ago, student coordinators have built a program that goes out into the community and makes a difference. Year after year we continue to perform concerts at local assisted living communities, the Ronald McDonald House, Community Day and more.
As our newest initiative, JUMP! is re-energizing our community libraries! We’ve launched a delightful new series of musical storytimes at the West University Branch Library, where young listeners can experience their favorite stories brought to life. We’re also beginning a performance series at Rice University's Fondren Library. We invite students, faculty, and community members to come and connect with us right in the heart of campus, and maybe check out a book or two while they're at it!
JUMP! celebrates the theme "Friendships through Music" – a constant reminder that music has the power to bring people together, spark joy, and build understanding across all walks of life, something that is important now more than ever.
For our student coordinators and performers, sharing music with the Houston community is meaningful and fun. It renews their sense of purpose while deepening their artistry. Most importantly, JUMP! reminds them of why they fell in love with music in the first place.
