Chris Gemkow’s decision to pursue a master’s degree in music education has turned into a somewhat unique experience for some York High School students.
“I had to choose a project for my master’s that involved students in a year-long involvement,” Gemkow said.
That project was to guide students interested in writing, recording and releasing an album of original music, something that isn’t commonplace in high schools. And there’s been sufficient interest by York students to now mark the fourth year in which an album has been released.
The 2018 version, “IV,” includes 28 tracks, including electronic, folk, pop, rock, rap and jazz.
Some of the participating students took to the stage Saturday at Schuba’s Tavern in Chicago for live performances of their compositions.
“Everyone who gets involved and follows through is on the album,” Gemkow said. “Some of the students are interested right from the start to be a part of it, and there are others I challenge and encourage to participate.
“For everyone who does get involved, I want them to know they have interesting ideas and they can shape them into their work. And there are so many outlets to perform it; their music should be shared with people.”
Maggie Quick is one of the students Gemkow encouraged to participate this year. She was part of the album two years ago, but didn’t return last year.
“I’m proud of what I did this year, and I did almost everything myself,” she said. “It was a great experience.”
Junior Maya Toffler is making her first appearance on a York album and loved the idea of a follow-up concert
“I went to the show my freshman year and I liked seeing people performing songs they wrote,” she said.
Junior Maddi Jones was part of the album project when she was a freshman and skipped last year because she was too busy.
“I’m glad I participated again this year,” said Jones, who is part of the group, Sleeveless Jacket. “When the album project comes around in the springtime, all of the students who share a love of creating and sharing music are assembled together to create the album, and it brings together a supportive, inspiring, exciting environment of kids making music and appreciating each other’s work.”
Senior Robby Larson is marking his second year of having a track on the album.
“It feels amazing to be able to release something,” he said. “Everyone on the album is incredibly talented, and this allows us to do whatever we want. Mr. Gemkow is a huge support.”
For his efforts, Gemkow has been chosen as one of five music teachers nationwide to receive the 2018 Music Education Innovator Award from the Give A Note Foundation, an organization that has conducted national awareness campaigns and raised funds to support and strengthen music education programs across the U.S.
The award includes a $4,000 grant to be used to enhance the music program at York.
The 2018 York album is available to download for $10, or stream for free via Bandcamp at yorkalbumproject.bandcamp.com. The album will also be available to stream on Spotify.
CDs were sold for $10 at the album release party.
cfieldman@pioneerlocal.com
Twitter @chuckwriting
