ACEMM is happy to announce that the 2017 Beacon Scholarship is awarded to Beth Brewer.  The Beacon Scholarship will help send Beth to the Dzodze, Ghana, where she will study West African music, dance, and culture through an interactive ethnomusicology class led by Dr. Kofi J.S. Gbolonyo at the Nunya Music Academy. The Schulwerk is deeply rooted in the concept that children learn from the traditions of their own culture. Our own American musical heritage has been greatly influenced by that of West Africa, and Beth feels that by delving into the religion, history, language, and daily life as well as the music and dance of the birthplace of these traditions, she can discover more about the important role that they have played in influencing aspects of American elemental music and dance traditions.

Ms. Brewer holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from Mississippi State University and a Master’s Degree from George Mason University with a Concentration in Orff Schulwerk. She received her Certification in Orff Schulwerk at Mason in 2015 and attended the Masterclass with Steve Calantropio the following year. She is currently finishing her first year at Bristow Run Elementary School in Prince William County, Virginia after teaching five years in the Boyd Schools of Montessori in Fairfax, Virginia.

ACEMM wishes Beth a meaningful experience and safe travels this summer. We look forward to hearing more from Beth about her studies and personal impressions from this unique opportunity!