Notes of musical instruments float through the hallways of the seldom empty rooms of the Tahoe Truckee School of Music, the energy and passion for music and creativity could stop anyone in their tracks.
The Tahoe Truckee School of Music, with locations in Truckee and Tahoe City, is a local nonprofit organization that aims to “cultivate life skills and community through music for all ages, regardless of experience, ability, or financial resources.”
Founder Ben Martin started the organization in 2009 with his love of music and the drive to connect others through such passion. When the nonprofit was started, in the same building that it resides in today, Martin did not expect his love for music and creativity to have such a vast impact on the community.
Martin grew up in the suburbs of Boston and got his music degree from Sierra Nevada College, finally moving to Truckee in 1977.
When the school was founded, there was “nothing like it in the area”. The fully unique business has had such immense success because of the passion for those who are involved and the support from the community. “My inspiration for starting the school was to give other people the same opportunity to enjoy music and make it a part of their lives.” Martin said.
In the fifteen years since the founding of TTSM, Martin said, “The music scene and the music community have really grown significantly,” he continues, “I see more and more young people who are interested in music and like playing music. Also just enjoying music.”
In collaboration with various businesses around the community, TTSM is creating platforms for all types of musicians, of all ages, to share their art form with the rest of the Tahoe Basin. According to their website, “Partnerships include NTBA, Northstar, Palisades Tahoe, Truckee Chamber, Tahoe Truckee Airport District, Tahoe Donner and more.” In creating an outlet, students of the TTSM can branch out beyond the classroom and perfect their art.
The school participates in many events around the Tahoe Truckee area. One of the best events is the weekly Thursday night Open Mic at Cottonwood. Anyone and everyone is welcome to join and play.
On Thursday, March 13th, musicians from all walks of life came together to showcase their talent to the small group of content listeners in the audience. As Martin joined the stage to play alongside students and colleagues, the captivation was overwhelming. Each person who stood in front of the microphone had a poise and determination to play and share their passion.
The diversity of expression, style and culture is the foundation of the musical sphere. Martin says, “Diversity [is] one of the most beautiful things about music, is there is so much [diversity].” Anyone, anywhere can listen to music and understand it, even if there is a language barrier, the sounds that music creates are accessible to anyone.
One of the instructors at TTSM, Subra Doyle, who started in January at the school says, “It makes my heart really happy to empower the youth with music.” He continues describing the importance of music. “In a world where we are all very isolated in technology, music is a medicine and it brings people together.”
Music doesn’t just connect people, it is a method in which musicians can utilize their voice in a vastly unique way. “It also empowers people to express their emotions in very healthy ways. I think it feels good to be part of that and share that with people.” Doyle said.
Students and instructors alike at Tahoe Truckee School of Music share their talents and voices through talent and learning. Music education has not been prominent in schools and the educational sphere recently, but TTSM is working to help educate and inspire students.
Martin said, “One thing about music is it brings you into the present moment, into the here and now. It encourages you to pay attention.” In a world where there is no lack of distraction, music is an escape that inspires creativity and excitement within anyone, whether they are playing or listening. “It is especially powerful now because I think it helps create opportunities for human connection, and for us to be together in a positive way.” Martin said.
In addition to the private lessons that the school offers, they also do a lot of work with the elementary schools in the area. “We’re hoping to reach 2000 students,” Martin said about the outreach project.
While at the Tahoe Lake Elementary, both Doyle and Martin, among others, performed for about 300 students. “We were there for over an hour and we had their attention, the whole time. Which to me was astounding.”
The work of Martin and TTSM, to inspire youth and simply share music as part of their day has an impact that is unmatchable. Instead of sitting on technology, the developing brains of hundreds of elementary students in the area are being stimulated by creativity and art.
Music has the ability to connect people and share their creativity that is available to everyone. Martin and everyone who is involved and has participated with the Tahoe Truckee School of Music has created a space where creativity and community can thrive and be sustained.
If you are interested in learning more about TTSM, click here.
