The Deep Ellum Community Center will begin offering free guitar lessons organized by celebrated educators and artists Kierra Gray Thomas and Jess Garland. No previous musical experience is required for the classes, which are open to everyone aged eight and up. Those of all skill levels are invited to join the classes, which will take place from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.
The new program, which seeks to create an intergenerational and inclusive environment that promotes creativity, community engagement, and cultural awareness, is presented by Garland’s nonprofit organization Swan Strings. Often, local organizations will utilize a flyer printing service to notify specific areas of a community of upcoming events and activities.
Originally a freedman’s town, Deep Ellum evolved into a nexus for jazz, blues, and folk music shaped by Black artists. This initiative celebrates that legacy with an emphasis on Black women, whose contributions to formulating American music have frequently been overlooked. Dallas Weekly reported Garland as saying the initiative was about:
“…creating space to build community through sound.”
The program starts on August 6. Registration is open for onsite sign up for community members, or they can email programs@swanstrings.com.