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Talkin' Music - Episode 3: Beginnings: Instructional Program for Youth

In the 1960’s Dr. Patterson noticed a lack of participation from students of color in Ann Arbor’s public school music programs, an issue that still persists today. He founded the Our Own Thing Instructional Program to provide free instruments, instruction, and support for local youth. In this episode, we hear a lively discussion between Dr. Patterson and Sylvia Harmon, one of his earliest students.

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Talkin' Music - Episode 2: Taking Root, Voices Heard, Part 2

In this episode, we continue to be inspired by Dr. Patterson’s journey through life and music, from imitating singers he heard on the radio to introducing audiences to new genres. He shares his passion for community and dedication to African American choral music, particularly Spirituals.

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Talkin' Music - Episode 1: Taking Root, Voices Heard, Part 1

In this episode, we hear about the origins of the Our Own Thing Chorale and Instructional Program with founder and special guest Dr. Willis C. Patterson. Dr. Patterson recalls the importance of music in his own development, especially as a member of the Dunbar Community Chorus.
 

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There Went The Neighborhood - Studio Interview: Debby Mitchell Covington

Debby Mitchell Covington grew up in Ann Arbor near Summit Park (now Wheeler Park), and she attended Jones School in kindergarten and first grade. In 1965 when Jones School closed, she was bused to Dicken Elementary and she recalls feeling isolated in the majority-white school. 

This interview was filmed during the making of the documentary film There Went The Neighborhood: The Closing of Jones School, produced by the Ann Arbor District Library and 7 Cylinders Studio. More interviews are available in the There Went The Neighborhood Interview Archive.

Cheryl Mitchell and Her Children Gather Around Organ, January 1994 Photographer: Mark Mueller

Cheryl Mitchell and Her Children Gather Around Organ, January 1994 image
Year:
1994
Published In:
Ypsilanti Press, January 30, 1994
Caption:
Cheryl Mitchell--surrounded by her three children, Yvonne, 9; Aaron, 7 and Stefanie, 5--brings music into the lives of her children be it at home, where she plays organ, or at their schools, where she often volunteers.