Music and Teamwork
The mission of JUMP! is to make classical music engaging through relevant programming, interactive concerts, and education. Directed by Shepherd School of Music students, JUMP! gives educational presentations within the Houston community. This semester, the program is coordinated by violinists Emily S. Richardson and Allison Smith with the help of faculty members Janet Rarick and Rachel Buchman.
Students and faculty from the wind chamber music class at the Shepherd School conceived JUMP! over 20 years ago. Since then, student coordinators expanded JUMP! to include student performers from all musical departments.
For the first time since the start of the pandemic, JUMP! will hold in-person concerts and events at the Shepherd School and will also travel to local schools and assisted living communities. As a celebration of reuniting with our colleagues and community, JUMP! will focus on the art of collaboration with this semester’s theme “Music and Teamwork.” The theme emphasizes the importance of working together and offers the idea that like many other parts of our lives, music is best when shared. With this goal, JUMP! aims to include a variety of different ensembles and provide engaging musical activities. JUMP! represents all audiences by programming diverse repertoire, featuring works by BIPOC composers and non-classical genres.
Rachel Buchman teaches participating students the special performing skills needed to create a fun and informative classical music experience. In addition, Shepherd School faculty coach the chamber music groups and advise student leaders on planning and administration.
Student coordinators find many benefits from the JUMP! program. Sharing music with children is exciting, energizing, and brings a fresh perspective to their art.