Academic Success

Academic Success:

Youth on Record doesn't just teach music; it uses the transformative power of the arts to empower students from marginalized communities. We witness positive youth development through social-emotional learning in a safe and supportive environment.

Youth on Record partners with schools in Denver and Aurora, where empowerment takes center stage in our classrooms. Students tackle real-world issues and social justice themes, weaving music, social studies, and performance to find their voices. Guest speakers, field trips, and collaborative projects ignite a journey of self-discovery as they explore their heritage and embrace the stories of others.

Youth on Record prioritizes mental health and well-being through practices like trauma-informed care, Nonviolent Communication, and restorative strategies. This strong foundation empowers students to foster a sense of belonging, embark on self-discovery journeys through the arts, and develop the social-emotional skills they need to thrive. Here, they learn to critically examine the world around them, all while feeling supported and empowered.

Mission

Through the transformative power of music, Youth on Record equips students from marginalized communities with the academic tools and self-discovery needed to thrive. Our programs cultivate a safe and supportive environment where students tackle real-world issues, explore diverse perspectives, and emerge as empowered learners.

Vision

We envision a world where every young person, especially those from marginalized communities, can leverage the power of music and social awareness to achieve academic excellence, discover their authentic voice, and become confident leaders who champion positive change in their communities and beyond.

Core Values:

Joy- We harness the power of joy to confront oppressive systems. We create a springboard for collective action and positive change by fostering a joyful space.

Belonging- We curate spaces where members of our community are valued, included, and encouraged. Despite hardship and intergenerational trauma, we understand we can curate a multilayered sense of belonging through empowerment, commitment, and safety.

Authenticity- We curate spaces where our community can show up as their authentic selves, bringing with them their intersecting identities. We never want participants to code-switch to gain favor with our teams.

Collaboration- We prioritize our teams' collective expertise over individualism and understand that “if you want to go fast, go alone; but if you want to go far, go together.”

Community- We foster school partnerships in an effort to to amplify young artists. We co-create with communities, empowering students to shape a vibrant future through their art. 

Current Class Offerings:

Modern Ensemble: We curate an engaging environment where hands-on, instrument-based learning inspires creativity and teamwork. Students will learn to play and explore music in a contemporary way. Through a vision of equity, we aim to introduce an innovative program to students from diverse backgrounds, ensuring everyone can access the enriching world of 21st-century music education.

Identity, Power, & Music: This course is a launchpad for social awareness. We'll explore local and national history through the lens of music, focusing on social justice and the role music plays in shaping change. Analyze historical data, explore social movements, and discover how music can be a powerful tool for empowerment.

Music Production: Students learn the basics of digital music production and develop an appreciation for the historical-cultural significance represented in various musical genres. They will also create their own beats and explore the music industry as a career option.

Heritage Month Lessons: Interwoven in our current class offerings, we incorporate lessons in recognizing heritage months to highlight the beauty of different identities and cultures. In conjunction with appreciation, we empower students to explore the rich histories, stories, and emotions woven into the fabric of diverse communities. Through active music experiences, students gain a deeper understanding and celebrate traditions in a truly meaningful way.

2023-2024 School Partners:

Music Production and Identity, Power, & Music taught by Heather Hunt at Colorado High School Charter

Modern Ensemble taught by Jeevee Balangan at Compass Academy

Modern Ensemble taught by Caleb Tardio at Aurora West College Preparatory Academy

Music Production and Identity, Power, & Music taught by Vonna Wolf at Vista Peak Preparatory

Music Production taught by Jelie Jones at Prep Academy 

Jeevee Balangan is a versatile talent in the world of music, excelling as a Vocalist, Pianist, Songwriter, and beat-maker, demonstrating unwavering dedication and exceptional skill. Growing up in a musical family, he cultivated his vocal prowess through participation in numerous competitions, carving a path enriched by diverse musical experiences across genres such as Pop, R&B, Gospel, Musical Theater, and Classical music. This journey has profoundly shaped his musical identity.

Heather Hunt is a dedicated musician driven by a desire to impart her profound passion for music to younger generations. Her lifelong affinity for music began with collecting vinyl records during her formative years, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of musical genres, artists, and instruments. This cultivated a deep-seated love for music, further ignited when she received a guitar in her early teens.

Caleb José Tardío, PhD is a musician, educator, writer, and designer from Denver. He plays keyboards in the metal supergroup Nightwraith; he plays guitar in the rock trio Holographic American and with Denver folk legend Anthony Ruptak. He holds a BA from Metropolitan State University of Denver, an MA from University of Colorado Boulder, and, as of January 2024, a PhD from the University of Michigan.