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It Started With Fuchsia Hair

Dear ,

Over spring break, I had the good fortune of seeing the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra perform with guest violinist Jennifer Koh. There’s something about attending a symphony that still feels like a formal occasion. Even with all my years in the classical world, I find myself wanting to show up as my best self in those spaces.

So when Jennifer Koh walked on stage with bright fuchsia hair and a huge, genuine smile, I felt myself shift, just slightly, in my seat. I was curious. Open. Ready for something unexpected.

They performed Violin Concerto No. 1 by Philip Glass, and from the first note, it was clear we were about to experience something special. Koh’s playing was deeply expressive, but what struck me just as much was her presence. She didn’t just perform the music. She invited us into it.

At one point, I felt completely transported. My heart felt full in a way that’s hard to put into words. It’s the kind of feeling you wish you could bottle up and share, just to say, "This... this is what music can do. And I couldn’t help but wonder if others in the audience felt even a small piece of that same feeling.

Seeing masters of their craft perform is like standing in front of a great work of art or visiting a place you’ve only ever read about. It expands you. It shifts your perspective. It reminds you what’s possible. And that’s exactly why I’m so excited for our upcoming Spring Showcase.

Because while our students may not yet be on a world-renowned stage, they are in the process of discovering their own voice, their own confidence, and their own way of connecting through music. At Metro Music Makers, we believe music is more than just notes and technique. It’s a vehicle for expression, growth, and connection. It’s about creating space for each student to be seen and heard, just as they are.

Our core values are rooted in meeting students where they are, nurturing their individuality, and helping them experience those moments where something clicks, where they surprise themselves, where they feel proud, and where they connect. Those are the moments that matter.

And if we’re doing our job well, those moments, big or small, can create that same sense of wonder, perspective, and joy that I felt sitting in that concert hall.

I can’t wait to see what unfolds on our own stage.

Join us for the Spring Showcase

Keep learning, keep growing, and let the music lead the way.

Allison Jarrell 🎶

Founder & CEO

Announcing Grundwork, the Podcast You Need in Your Life

Every song has a story, even without words. On Grundwork, guitarist and composer (and Metro Music Makers teacher!) Mark Grundhoefer pulls back the curtain on his own instrumental music, one song at a time. Each episode digs into the writing process, his influences and inspirations, the art of recording and arranging, and what happened when the song finally met the world. Part music theory nerd session, part creative memoir, all Mark.

All You Need to Know About the Upcoming Showcase!

Our Spring Showcase is FULL, but don't despair. 

If you're a student who didn't register in time, we do have a waitlist! Email nita@metromusicmakers.com to get your name on the list.

Also, tickets are still available for friends and family to view the showcase. 

We know your student is working hard this semester, and we'd love to have a full crowd to enjoy their music. So be sure and grab tickets, and send the link to family and friends as well!

We can't wait to celebrate the end of the school year and a job well done with all of our students and their loved ones!

(As a reminder, each participating student’s family will receive two complimentary tickets, available at will-call under the parent’s name provided on the registration form. Additional tickets for friends and extended family can be purchased for $15 each. Children 12 and under attend free!)

Want to celebrate your musician in a special way? Feature them in our printed program! Send a heartfelt message from family and friends, and include a photo of your student. Siblings can share an ad together. After you purchase an ad, a staff member will reach out to finalize your details. The last day to purchase a Shout-Out is Friday, April 17, 2026.