Testimonials

“Hiring Jeremy Cohen is the single best decision I made in my years as principal. To say that he simply created a great music program for the our school does not begin to do justice to the sheer magnitude of his contribution. From an awesome, one-of-a-kind African drumming ensemble to a cutting-edge digital composing and keyboarding curriculum, the visionary and multi-faceted program that Jeremy designed breathed new life into Umana Middle, creating a palpable sense of excitement that is felt throughout our school’s diverse community.”

“Mr. Cohen held a dynamic three-day workshop for professional teachers here at UMass. The students were lavish in their praise of his knowledge, his musicianship, and his energy; all 23 requested for him teach a second, more advanced workshop. His practical experience with integrating Ghanaian drumming into inner city middle school general music classes provided credibility as a teacher and clinician who understands the real world of today’s schools.”

“We at The Center for Music National Service look to educators like Jeremy as models for the kind of creativity, innovation and true grit required to do the difficult and important work of reviving music education in our nation’s schools. With African drumming, he has found a real solution to a fundamental dilemma: how to engage and inspire students without forsaking rigor or discipline. His drumming curriculum exposes young people to the power of music and leverages that power to broaden their cultural horizons.”

“Jeremy is an outstanding musician and teacher. He creates an environment in which students are willing to take risks, and the energy and knowledge he brings to the classroom is contagious!”

“Jeremy teaches discipline and musicality in a structured, contagiously energetic program. I saw him take disinterested middle school students and turn them into passionate drummers. His techniques were engaging and fun.”

“I had the pleasure of working closely with Jeremy to create the Umana Middle School Academy music program. What so impressed me was his rare combination of organizational skills and ability to deeply connect with students. Jeremy had a vision for a first rate music program and made it a reality through hard work, determination and attention to detail.”

“Jeremy is a serious drummer with a deep reverence for our musical traditions. He has a true understanding of ‘master hand’ — the technical mastery and depth of understanding that separates the master drummer from the casual student.”

“Kudos to Jeremy! We need more conservatory-trained musicians who are willing to get down in the trenches and take on the tough challenges facing music education.”