Most young kids learn to play an instrument, whether it’s hopping from flute to the violin, to the saxophone, or sticking with one instrument for the long run, music makes a mark on many kids’ lives. Itzart4you is a student-led organization that mentors kids in Title One elementary schools in various instruments, such as the piano, violin, and viola as well as creating art projects for students. Title One schools are schools that receive extra government funding due to their high percentage of low income students. Itzart was co-founded by an Oakton student, Isabella Kim, and her younger sister, Emma-Grace Kim.
Mentors at ItzArt teach kids for 30 minutes a week on their various instruments, giving the students extra practice outside of their school orchestra. At the end of the semester, students, families and mentors gather for a concert. Lindsey Gibson, a 10th-grade violin mentor, said that “I love seeing everyone perform the song that they have worked so hard on with their mentor and the smiles on their faces afterward. Especially with my own mentees because they have been with me since the first session; getting to witness their progress and grow in confidence with their individual playing over the course of the semester is one of the main reasons why I love Itzart.”
Lindsey said that she joined because she “wanted to share [her] love and passion for music and playing the violin.” Itzart4you has taught the students amazing skills and given the mentor’s incredible opportunities and memories, such as when Lindsey’s mentee “Said his family was on vacation, and when they were in this shop, he saw [a] stuffed parrot and thought of me. I named him Squash. But in all seriousness, it almost made me cry. I had no idea that I had made even the slightest positive impact in his life during these 30-minute sessions through Itzart every week.”
Another mentor, 10th grade violinist, Ellie Armentrout said that her ”favorite part is definitely the bond that the mentors form with the kids. I really love my students, and they definitely really look up to the mentors!” When asked about why she thinks others should join Itzart, co-founder Ella Kim said “The program is a great way to develop leadership skills, interact and form relationships with young children through music and the arts, and you meet a lot of new people who share similar interests.” ItzArt4You is just one of many ways to get involved in the Oakton community and earn service hours. If you want to become a mentor, you can email the organization at [email protected], or donate at their website.
