SCS continues its partnership with Mott Hall II in Harlem, bringing music residencies to a school known for its academic excellence in math, science, and technology. Led by SCS Teaching Artists Dave Adewumi and Liany Mateo again this year, students are exploring the history of Black American music through influential artists and movements, while engaging in hands-on music-making with drumming, singing, and playing melodicas and keyboards. Students are discovering connections between Motown, the Great Migration, and funk, deepening their musical and historical knowledge through active listening and performance.
Liany Mateo brings valuable expertise and personal insight to the residency: “I remember having limited access to live music or opportunities to meet professional artists. It seemed so abstract that someone could have a job making music. So, I try to give students all the different experiences music can give you, as a performer or enjoyer.”
Mott Hall music teacher Derek Margolis shared how Liany brought in her upright bass and played a Michael Jackson bass line for the class, giving students a memorable, vibrant, and personal experience with the music.
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COMMUNITY MEMBER HIGHLIGHT
Dave Adewumi serves as both a longstanding SCS Teaching Artist and SCS Board Member. An award-winning trumpet player, composer, and educator, Dave brings a wealth of expertise to SCS music programming. He created the two lesson units for Jazz and the World of Black American Music, designed for grades 2-5 and for grades 6-8. Whether leading professional development trainings for SCS TAs as well as NYC music teachers, or teaching SCS students across the City, Dave embodies positivity and the power of music.