Musicians in Action, Inc. (MIA) and Guitar Center Music Foundation united to aid T.J. Fisher in introducing alternative careers to urban youth.
Gerald and Jacquelyn Malone, MIA president and CEO, respectfully, have devoted years to exposing young people of all genders and ages to the joys of gospel music and the opportunities to grow as a professional. In addition to presenting music workshops and training sessions, they mentor disadvantaged children and teens in the community.
“One of our popular workshops is our Annual Drum Clinic, which usually features celebrity musicians such as Sheila E. Also, T.J. Fisher is one of the coordinators of the Drum Clinic,” said Jacquelyn.
“Through his foundation, Drums For Success, he wants to make a difference through music education with mentorship and by building programs to assist future generations.”
Considering MIA’s influential reputation in the industry, it’s no surprise that Myka Miller, executive director of the Guitar Center Music Foundation, reached out to the Malones for assistance. Miller’s foundation has access to new and slightly used musical instruments, which are donated to school music classrooms, after school programs and music therapy programs.
“Myka is not only behind the successful operation of the foundation, but she is also responsible for putting musical instruments into the hands of thousands of children across the nation,” Jacquelyn said. “So, when she asked for suggested groups to give instruments to, I recommended T.J.’s organization.”
After connecting with Miller, Fisher mentioned that Frederick K.C. Price School, where he works, was sorely lacking in the music arena, too. As a result, Miller and the Guitar Center Music Foundation provided musical instruments for both the school and Drums For Success. Also, Professor Jae Deal of USC Thornton School of Music aided in ensuring that the donation was solidified.
Elated about the result, Fisher said, “I’ve been a music instructor for over 20 years, working with schools and nonprofits and organizations to help inner-city youth [along with] building a career as a professional musician.
“My current goal is to build a recreational center/ music school to mentor youth and keep them off the streets and pour into the future leaders of tomorrow.”
Jacquelyn added, “Thanks to the generosity of Myka Miller and the Guitar Center Music Foundation, T.J. has help to move further in his aspirations!”
To learn more about Musicians in Action, Inc., call (323) 539-8990 or visit Musicians In Action on Facebook. Follow Drums For Success on Instagram @drumsforsuccess or call (562) 726-8393.
