Our Future Looks Bright

Oso Musical Thrives in Relaunch
A community outreach program that continues to provide free, once-weekly music classes for children in the Waco area who have special needs

Aided by the support of the Shaping Young Worshipers Through Transformative Music Ministry initiative, Oso Musical has relaunched. Oso Musical provides a musical classroom experience for the participants (K-12), a support community for the families, and an opportunity for Baylor students planning to enter church ministry or education to have hands-on experience working with children with disabilities. Both in fall 2023 and spring 2024, Oso Musical has had full enrollment with a waiting list. 

Kelly Hollingsworth, D.M.A., assistant professor of music education, leads 12 community participants each paired with at least one Baylor Buddy (Baylor student volunteer). Jane Akenga (M.M., church music) said that seeing the kids’ excitement and enthusiasm really uplifts her spirit.

Partnering with Shaping Young Worshipers has allowed Oso to hire a coordinator and empowered the revision of content to include bible verses and spiritual songs.

Now in its second term after relaunch, the impact is clear. Dr. Hollingsworth shares, “Caregivers are smiling, videoing, and sometimes tearing up when they see their child lean into a toy microphone for a solo, move a scarf to match the music, wait patiently for their turn to play the instruments, and get excited when playing the instrument.” Lessons learned from Oso Musical will be shared with Learning Communities as the children’s grant progresses.

If you or someone you know would like to know more about Oso Musical, or join the waitlist, please contact Oso Musical Program Coordinator Beverly Schultz.

Board of Advocates
The Baylor University School of Music Board of Advocates is composed of alumni and business and professional leaders who are committed to the vitality of the School of Music. The Board helps the School to strengthen its educational, creative, research and outreach programs; improve its facilities; expand its base of support; and serve its alumni.

 The 2023–24 Board of Advocates includes Wolfgang Draving, Jane Abbott-Kirk, Dr. D.M. Edwards, Charles Fuller, Ben Gatzke, Giancarlo Guerrero, Laura Heinricks, Carey and Stacie Hendrickson, Trammell Kelly, Scott and Cheryl Livesay, Carole Lyons, Melissa Mesloh, Cheryl Murff, Patrick and Beth Musgrave, Lyndon Olson, Jr., Brittany Peterson, Katie Salvatore, Nathan and Michal Taylor, Mason E. Tennery, James Williams and Betty Wilson.

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