Students at our Grow Through Music camp learning about drumming from Bro. Ghana Mbaye. Getting these drums repaired was the goal of our #GTMD21 fundraiser last fall. Thank you for helping to keep camp educational and fun!
Future Focused: Raising Capital for the Culture
Walker|West is claiming its title as a cultural destination and resource for the Rondo community. Now is the time to empower the entire community through music education from the African American experience. The richness in Black history, especially that of Rondo, requires continuous celebration. Join us in the work to make that a reality with the power of music. Learn how you can support our capital campaign as we focus on the Future of Walker|West Music Academy.
Thank you to our Funding Partners
- Anna M Heilmaier Charitable Foundation (Capital Campaign)
- Boss Foundation (General Operations)
- Carlson Family Foundation (General Operations)
- Harlan Boss Foundation for the Arts (Rondo Community Music Series)
- HRK Foundation (General Operations)
- Mike & Donna Wolsted (Summer Jazz Intensive)
- Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Support (Summer Music Camps)
- Roderick Cox Music Initiative (Instrument Replacement, tuition assistance for youth of color)
- Nordson Corporation Foundation (General Operations)
- Rosemary & David Good Family Foundation (General Operations)
- Sheltering Arms Foundation (Early Childhood programming)
- Travelers Foundation for Sponsoring our recent Matthew Whitaker Masterclass and Social Hour
- Xcel Foundation (Tuition Assistance)
Large gifts are essential to the stability and growth of our organization, especially as we strive to reach our Capital Campaign goals. To support Walker|West with a major gift, contact our Executive Director, Braxton Haulcy.
You better recognize! Updates, awards, and recognition
Walker|West Institutional Video
New media alert! Should you ever need a refresher on some of the history of Walker|West, here’s a crash course. Share our video with your family, friends, and any music learners in your life.
We are excited to announce the new additions to the Walker|West staff and our Board!
Let’s welcome Marie Flowers as our new Outreach Coordinator, and Libby Turner as Program Director for Adult Education. We’re also honored to introduce Michael Walker, Son of founder, Rev. Walker, and Cherise Ayers, daughter of founder Grant West to the Walker|West Board of Directors.
Easy Listening
If you’re looking for a new podcast, tune into Keepin On’, which focuses on the journey of aging and the power of music through it all. Season 2 coming soon.
MPR in the Morning
In case you missed it, Executive Director, Braxton Haulcy was interviewed by MPR’s Angela Davis in May.
Paying Homage
Quite recently, the Star tribute featured David Smith, a budding musician and student at University of Minnesota, and a previous student of Walker|West under Mr. Duncan. We congratulate his recognition, and wish him future success!
Thank you for valuing Walker|West
With your support, we are able to provide music education to all. Our programs, performances, recitals, and camps are made possible through funding support from our partners and individuals like you. We appreciate your contributions, as they help us grow through music as a community. If you would like to make a one-time or monthly gift, visit our website. You help us propel our work forward. Thank you!
Upcoming Events
Get into the Gospel Life: Gospel According to Jazz
As we have stated before, there is a necessity for the music and its healing power especially in these current times. It’s vital to our mission to showcase the African American experience, and what better way to do that, than with performances by faculty and friends of Walker|West. For the first three Sunday’s in August, Walker|West partners with Liberty Community Church in Minneapolis to provide gospel performances expressed through Jazz techniques. Join us in person, or virtually for this series.
Get ready for the biggest and best Rondo Community Music Series yet!
Beginning in September, we have a stellar line-up that includes the Give Get Sistet, Gerard Ahlgren, Jack Barrett, and so many more! Performances will be available for virtual viewing via Crowdcast, and if you know you know! Encourage your family and friends to tune in. Every performance to date has been powerful and memorable. Stay connected for more information, and check our events calendar on our website to make sure you don’t miss your favorite artists!