The District Chronicles

Issue date: 10/25/09 Section: Arts and Entertainment

Media Credit: dcyop.org The program gives local minority youth access to classical music

As the bow glided across the strings of the cello, the vibrations produced the sounds of a piece written by Johan Sebastian Bach. With his eyes closed and body moving in rhythm, 13-year-old Cole Randolph concentrated on his technique as he extracted the melody from his instrument.

Charlie Powers, an accomplished cellist himself, as a member of the United States Marine Band called The President's Own, was surprised at the young, slim cellist.

"He was very focused," said Powers. "There were a lot of distractions, people walking in and out and camera flashes but that didn't distort his melody."

Randolph has been playing since age 5. He is a member of the DC Youth Orchestra Program. He started playing because his parents wanted him to, but he has come to enjoy playing the cello. "I like the program because it keeps you on track with your instrument," said Randolph.

The DC Youth Orchestra Program recently held a music open house at Coolidge High School in Ward 4. The program featured an "instrument petting zoo," master classes in brass and string instruments, and a youth audition for students vying for ensemble training. With a unique structure and curriculum, the program challenges students by placing them in age- and ability-appropriate classes.

"It allows them to feel important," said Ava Spece, executive director for the program. "It gives them a place to belong and succeed in their endeavors."

Housed at the high school, distinctive melodies pierce through the school's hallways from time to time. On one side of the hallway 10-year- old Jasmine Parham was plucking the strings of a harp that's bigger than she is.

"I've been playing the piano for three years," she said. "I think going to the harp would be an easy transition."

Her father, Lawrence Parham, right by her side, is a big fan of youth being involved with music. Along with his wife, who is a classically trained pianist, the Parhams made sure all three of their children are musically involved.  Their children play a variety of instruments, including the saxophone, clarinet, flute, and violin.

"Playing helps them with their discipline, studying, and math," Lawrence Parham said. "It also shows them that if they practice something, they will get better which, is a personal philosophy of mine."

Continued...

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