Summer Music Institute - 2025


Summer Music Institute - 2025
The Summer Music Institute (SMI) is a two-week intensive program designed to develop young musicians through a blend of jazz education, professional development, and ensemble performance. Held Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, SMI includes daily rehearsals and focused workshops on music production, business, theory, college readiness, and life skills. The institute culminates in a student-led concert, showcasing growth, creativity, and collaboration.
Monday, July 14
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
ThunderSoul, The Movie Q&A
Speakers: Reginald "Rollo" Rollins, Conrad O. Johnson, Jr., Howard Ware, Jimmy Walker
A powerful roundtable conversation with band alumni and leaders who helped shape the legacy of the Kashmere Stage Band and its iconic leader, Prof. Conrad Johnson. Dive deep into the music, the movement, and the message of ThunderSoul.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Tina Clayton – Scholarship Opportunities & College Preparedness
Tina Clayton of the Greater Houston Community Foundation walks students through essential tools and timelines for scholarship access and strategic college planning.
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Dr. Deonte Williams – From Chains to Change: How Negro Spirituals Gave Birth to Jazz and Gospel
Dr. Williams explores the evolution of spirituals into modern Black musical traditions. This session links history, culture, and resilience to today’s creative expression.
Tuesday, July 15
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Rose Adams – “Conrad O. Johnson: In His Own Words”
Using rare audio recordings, interviews, and personal anecdotes, this session offers students a direct connection to Prof’s philosophy, pedagogy, and legacy.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Joe Carmouche – Artist-In-Residence: Music Business and Professionalism
Joe Carmouche speaks on thriving as a working artist: professionalism, self-management, and the habits that build a lasting creative career.
1:30PM - 2:30 PM
Jelando”Jerry” Johnson
Jelando speaks on professionalism and the importance of multiple streams of income for financial success.
Wednesday, July 16 (Times marked with * are subject to change)
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM*
Dr. Richard Waghalter – Dentistry and Performance Excellence
Dr. Waghalter shares how skills developed in music translate into success in healthcare and beyond. A conversation about precision, practice, and discipline.
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM*
Lyndall Meadaris, – Financial Literacy & College Readiness
Lyndall, CEO at The Medearis Group, introduces students to money management principles for young adults, with a focus on planning ahead for college and early career decisions.
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM*
Cliff Gordon, an internationally renowned saxophonist will speak on Music Theory
Cliff opens his theory series with accessible insights into harmony, form, and listening skills that directly apply to rehearsal and performance.
Thursday, July 17
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Krystle Hodge – Cyberbullying, Social Media, Messaging
CEO of SafetyKay, Krystle empowers students with the tools to safely navigate online platforms, communicate authentically, and stand up to digital abuse.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Kyle Turner, Sr., Artist-In-Residence
Renowned saxophonist Kyle Turner hosts a dynamic performance and mentorship session, focusing on improvisation, self-expression, and the professional mindset.
Friday, July 18
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Tori Wilson, Founder of **The Energy Zen Bar** – Crystal Quartz Rhythms: Healing Through Sound
A unique wellness session using crystal quartz sound therapy, meditation, and rhythm to help students reconnect with their breath, body, and inner calm.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cliff Gordon – Music Theory
A rehearsal-integrated theory session exploring voicings, rhythmic flexibility, and ensemble awareness.
Monday, July 21
9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Claude & Dee Robinson, master’s in music education – Orchestration, Sound, Video, Gaming, Film Editing
Explore the role of music in multimedia—how it is scored, produced, and synchronized for video games, film, and digital platforms.
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Gene Moore & J. Xavier – Grammy Journey & Industry Insight
Houston’s own Gene Moore shares stories from his path to Grammy recognition, highlighting lessons in perseverance, faith, and vocal excellence. Joining him is J. Xavier (also known as Lil’ J Xavier), a Houston-based rapper, actor, and media personality who began his career at age 11 and now co-hosts The Wake Up Call on The Vibe Houston. Together, they offer a multigenerational perspective on artistry, purpose, and navigating the music and media industries with integrity.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Cliff Gordon – Music Theory
Afternoon application of harmonic structure and form, reinforcing ensemble cohesion as students prepare for the showcase.
Tuesday, July 22
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Christopher Knight – Performance and Business Etiquette
Practical training in self-presentation, communication, and professionalism tailored to young performers entering creative industries.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Kyle Turner, Sr., – Artist-In-Residence
Second session with Kyle Turner, Sr., continuing applied rehearsal work or interactive masterclass in phrasing and group performance.
1:30PM - 2:30 PM
Jelando”Jerry” Johnson
Second Session with Jelando, Professionalism and the importance of multiple streams of income for financial success.
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Wednesday, July 23
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Lonnie Matthews – Founder & CEO, Alliance Financial Ministries, Inc. Personal Financial Literacy
Lonnie leads an engaging workshop on financial empowerment—budgeting, credit, income, and planning for long-term success as a creative approach to money management for youth.
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Cliff Gordon – Music Theory
A final structured session on theory, improvisation, and interpretation, connecting concepts to final showcase preparation.
Thursday, July 24
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
Joyce Sallier, CPA MT – “How to build Your Own Business for the young Entrepreneur.”
Joyce focuses on taxes, budgeting, and the business side of creative work—ideal for students preparing to freelance or gig.
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Anthony Rogers – Discover Your Voice. Build The Future. Take The Stage.
A powerful closing session on storytelling, self-leadership, and how to take the stage—not just musically, but in life.