Title
WHEREAS, more than twenty-five years ago in the basement of an inner-city church in Pittsburgh, a piece of a dream began to unfold. On Saturday, September 29, 2007 the Afro American Music Institute celebrates its 25th Anniversary. This day preserve the cultural tradition and quality of a music that is widely recognized as an original American art form; and
WHERAS, in a classroom at the University of Pittsburgh, the foundation for a comprehensive curriculum that would fall under the umbrella of an inner-city program called The Afro American Music Institute began in 1982 as a proprietary venture of founders Dr. James Johnson and his wife, Pamela. The mission of the AAMI is to provide systematic, specialized instrumental and vocal training in all styles of the African-American music tradition; and
WHEREAS, on August 15,2003, AAMI closed the doors at its location on 7227 Tioga Street and moved into its newly purchased building at 7131 Hamilton Avenue in Homewood where the facility provides a more inviting location with larger rooms and a more professional appearance and atmosphere as its student enrollment and general public interest increases; and
WHEREAS, consistent with its mission, the Afro-American Music Institute will continue to provide programs of excellence under the guidance and tutelage of its committed, professional staff and board members. AAMI will continue to seek out those persons, especially youth for enrollment and completion of programs and courses offered at AAMI. Their experience indicates that youth who participate in AAMI gain a better sense of self-confidence, self-esteem, creativity and problem solving skills; and
WHEREAS, the Afro-American Music Institutes commitment to the community is demonstrated by a conscious decision to remain and serve those youth and adults who most need their services. This Institute is one of Pittsburgh's best kept secrets.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh, r...
Click here for full text