Whitney Young Magnet High School produces a major Rock N’ Roll showcase, and it was one for the books. Friday night was a significant event, a 60-minute nonstop talent performance. Mr. Jeffrey Peeks’s guitar students played to a packed house. The goal was to turn his regularly scheduled classes into a band itself, including two clubs, which stemmed from the program, Femmes of Rock and The Blues Combo.
The show included some major rock hits like Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Yellow” by Coldplay, and Franz Ferdinand’s “Take Me Out.” Mr. Peeks’s students individually executed their curriculum, which includes arranging, music theory, and songwriting.
The classrooms are a mix of all grade levels, and the passion held towards this project was encouraging. Whitney Young is widely known for its production of extensive talent. Since it was the first time for a few of the performers, this “Winter Jam Session” was just the beginning.
Music is known as an expression of passion, emotions, and vision. That urge stretches far beyond the “learning” aspect, which is why many students continue their passions outside of school.
Both solo artists and bands are speculated to make significant debuts in the coming months. Mr. Peek has alumni students with prominent music releases, and he is excited to see his current students make their debuts.
The community will be entertained in May 2022 when the Whitney Young guitar program delivers another Rock N’ Roll experience.
Written by Doniesha Jackson
Edited by Cathy Milne-Ware
Source:
Whitney M. Young Magnet High School: Winter Jam Session; November 19, 2021
Images Courtesy of Omari Jahi – Used With Permission