Not Your Average Family Reunion
After another successful training retreat, we can’t wait to start the school year with renewed perspective, strength and leadership.
Join us for a special concert and live podcast recording at Books & Books in Coral Gables.
Saturday, December 7, 12 – 4 PM
The Miami Gardens Youth Music Festival is almost here! Save the date! Sat. March 2, 2024. Enjoy an afternoon filled with lively music and incredible music performed by local, talented high school students!
Let’s celebrate music and our lively community by coming together during this event!
Working collaboratively with local schools and the broader community, Guitars Over Guns provides students a wealth of experiences in the arts. All students in the music program learn to read and write contemporary music, play instruments and perform on stage and/or in a recording studio. Performances and gallery displays are also integral to our arts-based mentorship programs.
We are happy to be serving the following schools and community partners:
Carol City Middle School*
Lake Stevens Middle School*
Miami Carol City Senior High School*
Myrtle Grove K-8 Center*
North County K-8 Center*
Linda Lentin K-8 Center
North Miami Middle School
North Miami Senior High School
Papa Keith Music & Media Studio
@ Gwen Cherry Park
Oak Grove Park
North Dade Middle School
Citrus Grove K-8 Center
Brownsville Middle School
Georgia Jones-Ayers Middle School
Coconut Palm K-8 Academy*
Cutler Bay Middle School
Homestead Middle School
Homestead Senior High School
Leisure City K-8 Center*
Mandarin Lakes K-8 Academy*
Miami Southridge Senior High School
Redland Middle School
Richmond Heights Middle School
South Dade Middle School
West Homestead K-8 Center*
Demps Park
GATE Program @ Jackson Health
GOGO Studio Homestead @ Live Like Bella Park#
North Dade Ambassador Band
Oak Grove Park
Overtown Youth Center
Papa Keith Music & Media Studio
@ Gwen Cherry Park
South Dade Ambassador Band –
The Atomic Lollipops
Genesis Hopeful Haven @ Live Like Bella Park
Miami-Dade County Parks Music Camp
@ Live Like Bella Park
Music Camp
@ Little Havana Leadership Learning Center
Music Camp @ North Miami Middle School
Music Camp @ Overtown Youth Center
Music Camp @ Oak Grove
Music Camp @ Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center
Music and Art Camp @ Lake Stevens Middle School
Papa Keith Music & Media Studio
@ Gwen Cherry Park
Our mentors come from different walks of life and artistic paths, all connected by their love for the arts and a passion to pay it forward.
They are Guitars Over Guns’ heart and soul, implementing and customizing our comprehensive curriculum that uses arts-based mentoring as a powerful intervention tool for young people.
2916 N Miami Ave.
Floor 6, Office #602
Miami, FL 33127
After another successful training retreat, we can’t wait to start the school year with renewed perspective, strength and leadership.
“I got my first guitar, and I realized the program was meant for me. I learned I didn’t have to be in bad situations.”
Vocals
Efrem Alexander was born and raised in Miami, Florida. In his early raising, he was surrounded by instruments gifted by his mother from pianos to guitars. Efrem has taken classes within music throughout his entire school life taking choir classes and band classes. Efrem being writing songs in the 7th grade. His love for being able to articulate his feelings through song inspired and motivated his passion for music and so he decided to take it on as a career.
Visual Arts
Jasmine Azor who goes by Jass or Jasmine Nichole is a self taught multidisciplinary artiste with experience in fine art, digital art, fashion design, creative direction, modeling, and creative writing. Born and raised in NYC she has been in the field of art for 10+ years contributing her talents to art galleries/shows, art Basel, music videos, and multimillion dollar companies. Her plan is to teach self expression and individualism through her visionar visual and physical creations.
Visual Art
Alana Barrett is a multidisciplinary artist and educator that works across a variety of two dimensional and three dimensional mediums, including paint, woodworking, electronics and fabrics. Her work spans a variety of subject matter from robotic sculptures to hard-edged abstract paintings. All of her work, however, is united by playful spatial relationships, whimsical perspectives, and her curious nature and willingness to experiment.
Vocals
Zoe Carlo (they/them) is a singer and vocal mentor from Miami, Florida. Since a young age, Zoe has always been involved in music and dance, from tap and ballet to choir and musical theater. Their work musical directing various middle school musicals as well as their experience with Florida State University’s premiere a cappella group, Acabelles, inspired them to continue pursuing music and finding inventive ways to teach and mentor youth. Currently, Zoe is gaining experience as a Board-Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst at Flamboyan Behavior, based in Puerto Rico, where they manage case loads, create and implement treatment plans for children with autism and other disabilities, and work with various teams to ensure they are always advocating for the kids they serve. Zoe’s goal is to be able to connect their love for helping and teaching youth, especially in underserved communities, to their love for music and singing.
Drums, Bass, Vocals
Kelly Blake is a musician and comedic performer based in Miami, FL. Born and raised in Orlando, educated at The Florida State University in Tallahassee, and now residing in Miami, she is a tried and true Florida Girl. After leaving a career in politics, Kelly discovered she could combine her passions for teaching and music by offering lessons to friends and family members. Kelly joined GOGO in March 2023, teaching bass and guitar in South Dade schools. Through GOGO, Kelly enjoys encouraging and mentoring young musicians as they start exploring their musical talents. In addition to her work with GOGO, Kelly is a company member at The Villain Theater in Little Haiti and can be seen performing comedy throughout South Florida.
Bertrand Boyd is a creative writer, poet, and actor from Miami, FL. He began writing as an adolescent, though it wasn’t until age 17 that he took the stage as a spoken word artist. After hearing a live performance from notable poet and soon-to-be mentor, Will “Da Real One” Bell, Boyd entered the literary world, where he performed under the stage name “Da Youngsta.”
He shared the stage with comedic greats, including Sheryl Underwood, as part of the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Tour in 2005. In 2006, he graced the infamous Apollo Theater stage in NY, leaving a 2-time winner. He dominated his local literary scene and has since performed nationally and abroad.
Boyd is a literary renaissance man, and since the untimely death of his mentor Will “Da Real One” in 2011, he is devoted to keeping the vision alive. He teaches high school English and is founder of Scrap Paper Inc., teaching literary skills to local students through poetry. He began acting in 2011 and has appeared in over a dozen films, including Avaricious (2016), winning “Best at Fest” at the Cannes Film Festival in France, and he was featured in Kodak Black’s music video Tunnel Vision (2017) & Sir The Baptist featuring Brandy music video. He later appeared in the hit Fall films Murder Gardens (November 2019) and Queen and Slim (November 2019).
He has several developmental projects wherein he will both write and direct. His poetry and screenwriting is an ongoing endeavor and he’s expanded to incorporate live music. As both student to his craft and mentor to his community, Bertrand Boyd is determined to break barriers and defy odds through the power of his creative prowess.
Music Production
Gerald Nova Sound is a published poet, producer, and philanthropist, hailing from Queens, New York from a Jamaican family rooted in music. Gerald established Nova Sound, a technology company with a focus on music, media, and event production, in 2014 with the intention of serving non-profit organizations and venues across South Florida. The company has since been providing quality production services and has become a staple in the community. Amidst impacting numerous lives around the globe, he has successfully gained 1 million views and launched over 5,000 digital products as well as 50 stage and studio products. His passion for music has led him to work with several Grammy-award-winning artists, features in publications, and a stage for releasing versatile music compilations. To extend his creative endeavors, he is soon releasing his full-length album this December under the name “G Nova Sound” through his NovaSound.Music imprint. He has further shown his prominence in impacting over 200 at-risk youth, through non-profit work, speaking engagements, and studio sessions.
Guitar
Ruben Espinosa is a Colombian born multi-instrumentalist that has been performing and pursuing a career in music for 15 + years. After studying jazz guitar and bass in New York, Ruben moved to Florida use his talents for his passion projects and getting involved with the South Florida community. He is currently pursuing a degree at MDC in Music Business and intents to use his knowledge to promote and expand his brand and business. Ruben loves playing all types of music ranging from rock and roll to jazz and is always excited of sharing the gift of music with others.
Keys
Juner Etienne is a 25-year-old sound engineer. His love for music started at a young age at his local church, where he learned to play the piano. From then on, he became invested in all things music, from mixing and mastering to recording and composing.
Juner’s love for music intensified when he started his college career in Miami, at the School of Audio Engineering where he learned to master his skills.
After graduating from college in 2014, he went on to open his own recording studio in partnership with Jean Berrouete. There, he has helped artists with a passion for music to hone their skills. He continued his work in music when he opened a production company, Fast Track Music.
Now a member of the Guitars Over Guns mentorship team, Juner invests in his community to prevent heightened hardship and to create a place where the youngest members of our community can have a voice.
Vocals
Karen Feldner is an instrumentalist and singer-songwriter. She released 4 seasonal albums, The Collection: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, in 2019 and will be releasing Barn’s Burnt Down Spring of 2023.
Karen founded a nonprofit homeschooling group with 2 other women, H.O.M.E. (Homeschoolers of Miami Enrichment) from 2006-2012, which oversaw and developed up to 20 classes for homeschoolers every semester.
Karen is currently a committee member of the North Beach Bandshell, the hub of the Rhythm Foundation, secretary of Gigs Up, Inc., and is a member of Ballad of America, a nonprofit whose mission is to preserve and celebrate America’s diverse cultural history.
Last year, Karen began creating her comfort brand Hugabop, as well as Jammie Jeanz, urban flannel pajama jeans and flannel pillow hugs, which are currently in production.
Karen holds a Bachelor of Music from the University of Miami.
Vocals
Born and raised in Miami, FL, Jada Forbes is a multidisciplinary talent. Taking inspiration from all of her life experience, she’s decided to pursue music, performing, writing, and wellness. As a child, she loved to sing, but was too shy to sing in front of people. She overcame stage fright at the age of 8, during her first talent show. Since then, she’s rarely turned down to opportunity to share her vocal gift with the world. She came to acknowledge her gift in creative writing at the age of 18, which inspired her to earn a Bachelor’s degree in English from Florida International University. As she mentors, she also runs a wellness business, The Serenity Spot, teaching other Miami natives about yoga and mindfulness as a Certified Yoga Teacher.
Social Media & Content Manager
Michelle “MJ” Donnelly is a dynamic singer, rapper, and songwriter hailing from Harlem, New York City. Her journey with Guitars Over Guns began as a vocal and songwriting mentor, where she has made a profound impact on her students. MJ’s love for the arts was nurtured early on, with a childhood rich in cultural experiences—ranging from ballet, tap, and modern dance at the Dance Theatre of Harlem to summer art programs at Riverbank State Park, and chorus in every school she attended. As a teenager, she honed her skills as a peer mentor with the Harlem Children’s Zone, where she studied vocals and music production, and participated in musical theatre and studio recording as extracurriculars. The opportunity to create and learn within a community has deeply shaped her artistic journey.
MJ has lit up stages in the underground music scenes of both New York and Miami, performing at Smoke Signals Mia, iiiPoints festival, and a host of underground events in Harlem, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Her latest projects involve collaborations with community activists and influencers to raise awareness about social causes, including prison reform with Dream Defenders Miami (“The Free Tape,” available on all platforms) and support for the LGBT community alongside Life Coach Octavia Yearwood (“Life’s Interludes” EP). After managing social media for nearly three years, MJ officially joined the Guitars Over Guns staff as Social Media and Content Manager, bringing her passion for storytelling and community-building to the forefront of our mission. She is excited to continue amplifying the voices of our communities nationwide!
“Community is everything to me. If I can change one person’s perspective for the better, I know I’ve made progress– because that person will share that perspective with others. The youth is the key to making real change. Let’s pour positivity, love and music into them and build better communities.”
Founder, Alumni Vocal Ensemble
Miami native Michelle Forman is the type of artist and person who wears it on her sleeve both on and off the stage. For her work across diverse fields, Mish has been featured in local and national media including CBS Miami, The CW South Florida, Miami NewTimes, Miami Herald, NBC South Florida, Telemundo, Lifestyle Magazine, and others.
Mish is a self-taught singer/songwriter/instrumentalist whose voice can be heard on over 30 albums. She has recorded, toured and collaborated with a variety of talented musicians including Premio Nuestro and Grammy-nominated artists. Michelle is also a longtime member of Miami’s iconic local band ¡Suénalo!, notorious for their high-energy performances and infectious, multicultural grooves. ¡Suénalo! has contributed to the soundtrack of Miami for over 15 years, crowned the Miami New Times’ Best Latin Rock Band (2005), Best Latin Band (2011), Readers’ Choice Best Band (2014) and one of Miami’s Best Latin Rock Bands of all time. Michelle is also the creator of She Said, an eighteen-piece multicultural, multi-instrumental women’s ensemble which galvanized the power of many female artists of our city.
Mish spent many years working in the entertainment industry while exploring multiple paths involving music, advocacy and mentorship. She is a wardrobe stylist with 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, ranging from film, television and theatre to catalog, still photography, editorials, ballet, Broadway and opera. Ultimately, she found a passion in working with early to mid-century clothing while maintaining a Key Costumer position at The Florida Grand Opera. In 2018, Michelle decided to part ways with the production world to focus on better serving her community.
Celebrating over a decade of community service with Guitars Over Guns, Michelle is responsible for making a lasting positive impact on youth from disadvantaged backgrounds in Miami-Dade. Mish began with Guitars Over Guns as a volunteer for two years, prior to the organization acquiring 501(c)(3) status. She has dedicated her time and talent to serving her community, pouring her heart and soul into empowering youth through music and mentorship. Mish’s ability to empathize and intuitively connect with others enables her to forge everlasting bonds with her students. In 2019, she was honored as a Champion for Children by The Children’s Trust, receiving the prestigious Award for Excellence in Direct Service to Children & Families. As the founder and director of Guitars Over Guns’ Alumni Vocal Ensemble, Michelle has empowered a rising generation of talented young artists, guiding them to develop their vocal technique and leadership skills. Additionally, she has served as a Community Coordinator for the organization’s Miami region, helping to implement high-impact programming and leadership coaching for a team of more than sixty professional mentors.
Wellness
Wisty Heart, a non-binary mixed be-ing with Galactic origins, is a Wellness Mentor and Reiki Master Energy Activator who shares boundless love for our expansive, multi-dimensional Universe. With a mission to activate the authentic embodiment and remembrance of love in all beings on Earth, they employ a symphony of healing modalities, including Reiki, Music and Sound Healing, mindful movement, meditation, dance, and light language. Their cosmic journey spans 20+ years of music & dance experience, 15+ years of teaching, and 10+ years as a Reiki Master Practitioner. Born in Japan and currently residing in Miami, FL, Wisty passionately guides humans worldwide, helping them remember the life they came here on Earth to live, in alignment with their multi-dimensional selves and the highest good of all.
Among South Florida’s legion of live music loyalists and millennial party-rockers, J. HOWARD is already low-key famous. The multi-instrumentalist / singer / songwriter collects new fans faster than his trusty Boss Audio Loop Pedal collects a new crowd-pleasing improvisation. It’s one of the reasons promoters have summoned J. HOWARD as far north as AFROPUNK FEST Brooklyn, and partly explains how an Ohio native could ultimately be tapped to curate the popular MIAMI IN ATLANTA music showcase (Parts 1 & 2). It’s not often that a generation produces an artist whose cosmic sense of style, showmanship and innate musicality transcends culture, genre, and locale; thankfully, J. HOWARD’S time has come.
As the son of Eddie Howard Jr. (Commissioned), one of the busiest multi-instrumentalists in Detroit, J. HOWARD was privileged to watch his father work with artists like Anita Baker, Fred Hammond, and The Williams Brothers. Now, as a veteran live performer in his own right, J. HOWARD wields drumsticks, guitars, loop pedals, keys and vocal runs with the artful precision of a Samurai wielding his sword. He’s won over audiences with electrifying sets on many of Miami’s most notable stages: Faena, Bardot, The Stage Miami, The Stage Wynwood, Wynwood Yard, Piano Bar, Little Haiti Cultural Complex, African Cultural Arts, E11even, and Sidebar are just a few. A consummate collaborator, J. HOWARD’S humble beginnings included playing as part of the house band for events like the Vagabond and SpeakFriday’s, and a stint at Churchills from 2014-2016 where he performed in a band called Black Rock Kills. Since then, J. HOWARD has performed with Latin, gospel, R&B and hip-hop artists, including Tye Tribbett, The Clark Sisters, Domino Saints, EA Musica, Marger, Encore, Entourage, Louis Miguel, and Los Wizards. Recently, J. HOWARD was invited to take up a Saturday night residency at the Hardrock Hotel and Casino playing drums alongside DJ Cardi (Miami Heat). He’s also performed with DJ Vertigo (Miami Dolphins), DJ Peewee and DJ Waytrae. Last year, J. HOWARD was invited to perform at the Wynwood’s Finest Music Festival, and the Okeechobee Music x Arts Festival, where he joined legends Chaka Khan, The Roots, Travis Scott and Snoop Dogg. Most recently, J. Howard opened for neo-soul originator Erykah Badu at the Three Points Music Festival.
HOWARD is as dedicated to the studio as he is to the stage. Original tracks like “Know It” (feat. Ill-logicz, prod. Sean Wright), “Push,” “Without You” and “Out of Space” showcase his heart-melting, four-octave vocal range and songwriting abilities. J. HOWARD’S take on the art of seduction shines through on the vampy “Out of Space,” where he asks “Let me see into your eyes / And see what has compiled / I see some things that I can change for you /….I know exactly what you need / how you think how you breathe / I’m going to be the one that don’t fall through.”
“I been grinding for a long time / People told me give up and I almost lost my mind / Too many times, but I know and God knows / There’s something bigger than me…” J. HOWARD explains on “Know It.”
As a lifestyle brand, J. HOWARD’S influence is undeniable. When he’s not moonlighting as an event planner and host, the artist is busy coming up with new scents for his fragrance line, or new slogans for his J. HOWARD t-shirt line. Bearing his name in swanky script, or signature J. HOWARD expressions like “You Too Sleep,” the J. HOWARD brand has already graced stages he has yet to touch himself. LIVE with Kelly and Ryan, the Late Late Show with James Corden, concert tours with Rita Ora and Baby Cham—all have featured fellow musician friends (and family) rocking the J. HOWARD brand.
“I want to give the Word, love, hope, positivity and perspective with my music and brand,” says the artist soon-to-be-recognized as “The Godson of Soul.” “I’m letting everyone know that they are great. You just got to wake it up in yourself and realize.”
Current J. HOWARD projects include The Freedom Tapes alongside activists The Dream Defenders, an EP, Low Key Famous set to release in the first half of 2019, and Perspective, his first album slated for release in the latter half of the year. A strong advocate of “Each one, teach one,” J. HOWARD also lends his talents to the mentoring program Guitars over Guns, where he instructs middle school students in drums and production.
Bass, Drums, Vocals
Introducing Kaley Howard, a musical powerhouse originally from Youngstown, Ohio, now making waves in the vibrant Miami, Florida scene. Coming from a childhood immersed in the world of instruments. Kaley’s journey into music was written in the stars. Her father, the Grammy Award-winning producer Eddie Howard Jr., contributed his magical touch to Anita Baker’s “Giving You the Best That I Got,” as well as the renowned gospel groups “Commissioned” and The Clark Sisters. Kaley’s musical prowess graces a diverse range of stages. As the Site Coordinator with GOGO, she collaborates closely with principals, staff, and students. She’s also a global performer, sharing her talents with artists like Trina, Kent Jones, Damien Marley, Wayne Wonder and currently serving as the music director for reggae, dancehall sensations Baby Cham . Yet, Kaley’s true passion comes to life when she’s guiding young minds. Her performances aren’t just about music – they’re about pushing boundaries, exceeding expectations, and instilling the belief that “Anything is possible.” This mantra reverberates in her personal and professional life, inspiring a new generation to reach for their dreams.
Guitar
Jefferson Joseph is a multi-genre bassist based in Miami, Florida. While formally being trained on lower brass instruments during grade school, he is self-taught on bass guitar and acoustic guitar. Jefferson began his career as a frequent performer within the South Florida open mic circuit. Working as either a session musician with existing groups or formulating small ensembles as a bandleader, he has tackled a wide variety of live performances and recording projects. Jefferson also curates music showcases, open jam sessions, and songwriting sessions as Miami MoJo Entertainment.
Spoken Word Poetry
JUST JOHN is a rapper and spoken word artist from Miramar, FL in Broward County. With a performance resume that includes Art Basel, AfroPunk MIAMI launch party, and People Matter Fest, John has captured the hearts of audiences of over 1,000+ fans throughout South Florida. Known for his ability to deliver “real lyrics” straight from the heart, John’s creative content inspires listeners to take action – whether that means voting, buying their mother a new house, or starting their own business. But Just John’s talent isn’t limited to music and poetry. With his undeniable charisma and fierce determination, he’s the kind of artist who can beat a grizzly bear with his bare hands – figuratively speaking, of course.
Music Production
Annie Jules was born in Miami, FL. on May 18, 1988 as an American with family of Haitian descent as Haitian-American. At an early age, Annie Jules started listening to many types of music like Gospel, jazz, classical, hip-hop, R&B, and Caribbean music. Music has captured Annie’s heart and soul by the age of 10 when she began playing her first instrument the Piano, by ear and then taking formal lessons from Haitian Classical Musician Jonas Jules. From then on while growing up, she ventured on to other instruments like the xylophone and the Steel Pan. Annie’s experiences and exposures began in High School and was more of the progress that excelled and benefited her Music Education. Annie Jules Participated in the Marching Band and Jazz Band performing at Colleges, Festival events, and Evaluation Competitions from under the Direction of her former mentor and Jazz Saxophonist Melton Mustafa Jr. and where she was apart of a straight Superior rated band from 2004-2005. In 2007 Annie won first place locally in Miami for Musical Contemporary/Instrumental and Second Place for Musical Classical/Instrumental for the NAACP ACT-SO Competition. In that same year, she graduated from North Miami Beach Sr. High in 2007.
From then on Annie Jules continued forwarding her education graduating from Florida Memorial University with a Bachelor’s of Arts in in Music Production. During her times attending college Annie has participated with the Music Department in many events traveling to numerous of places like Brazil, Orlando with the Steel Pan Band Orchestra in 2009 and to Tampa, Fl for Music conferences with the Jazz Band in 2008. In 2011 Ms. Jules began expanding her horizons when she began playing with many other great South Florida upcoming Artist in Top 40 Bands. She worked with singers, songwriters, and Recording Artist Mentor and Jazz Musician Melton Mustafa Sr., Singer and Live Performer Valerie Tyson, Marcia Mitchell, George Tandy Jr., Jody Hill, Eric Stinnett, Dangerflow, Baby Cham, Damian Marley, Camilla Cabello, and in Gospel Music, Kierra Sheard, Pastor Avery Jones, Sherl Burke, and Jonathan Laurence. Annie Jules desires is to become a wonderful inspiration to all who love music and to those that have a passion to reaching their goals in life.
Keys
Vania Junco is a Miami native and recent University of Miami grad with a Bachelor’s of Music degree in Media Scoring and Production. In her studies she emphasized in composing and performing jazz; in 2018, she won the Downbeat Student Music Award for Outstanding Performance in Jazz Voice. Her introduction to collaborative music was in the Miami Children’s Chorus, and she has since performed in groups led by Dr. Amanda Quist, Amanda Taylor, Avi Kaplan, and Pentatonix founder & producer Ben Bram, in venues such as Carnegie Hall in New York and the New World Center in Miami. Vania is a prolific composer and arranger and lends her talents to various performance and education-based ensembles around Miami. She joined Guitars Over Guns in 2021 and believes the most important part of educating young musicians is helping them self-surprise – to discover they can do something they didn’t yet realize they could.
Drums
KeAndre “K2Stixx” Kelley is a drummer/percussionist who started playing his first drum set at the age of 2 and has been passionate about music ever since. His love of Gospel music has built the foundation of his skills. He has watched and listened to other drummers from various genres and has developed the ability to play anything from Gospel to Rock. KeAndre joined his middle school band where became a member and captain of the school band’s drum corp. He continued to develop his talents as the lead drummer in his high school jazz band. He attended “Groove School” at Berklee School of Music. His talent has afforded him the opportunity to travel across the United States and play for various artists, including Tye Tribbett, Jonathan Nelson, Chandler Moore, J Howard and is currently the President of K2Stixx, LLC. KeAndre wants to use his talents to promote the love of music and the ability for music to transform lives. He believes music is not only a source of entertainment, but a form of self-expression. He regularly plays at churches, concerts, weddings, festivals, and other engagements.
Guitar
Timothy LaRoque is a singer-songwriter born and raised in Hollywood, Florida. Frontman for South Florida favorites “The Summit” and “The Def Cats”, Timothy’s latest project is “Stuck In The Past.” The debut EP features the likes of veteran musicians Shawn Fichter (Tim McGraw, Faith Hill), Will Lee (Late Show with David Letterman), and Rob Arthur (Peter Frampton).
From a young age, music has been a crucial part of his life. As a mentor, his goal is to encourage and empower his students with lessons that will last a lifetime.
Drums
Drummer and percussionist, Javier Luna is currently studying “Jazz Pedagogy” as a master’s student at the Frost School of Music, University of Miami. He also holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from the University of North Texas. Originally from Texas, Javier recently moved to Miami with his wife and 1 year old son to finish their formal education. While living in Texas, Javier was the Associate Director of Bands/Percussion Specialist at Garland HS in Garland, TX.
Javier has performed in many different musical settings such as Latin Jazz Ensembles, Steel Drum Ensemble, Afro Cuban Ensembles, Marching Band, Drumline, Musical Pit Percussionist and studio sessions to name a few. In these settings, Javier has focused on Latin American Hand Percussion including instruments like the congas, bongos and timbales. It is a dream of his to share this knowledge with the next musical generations to come.
In his free time, he likes to spend downtime with his son going to parks and enjoying nature. Javier and his wife Valeria are enjoying Miami as new parents and full-time students.
Visual Arts
My name is Nilka Maisonet, a native artist of Florida. Born and raised in the city of Miami, a city that feels like the Caribbean in all its sunny nature. Art to me, is music, painting, writing, singing, dancing, acting and everything that demands a creative thought to be executed; in order for that very thing to exist. Drawing in pen/ink is my go to in the visual arts. Years ago, I decided to draw in mediums like pen and marker; to exercise the art of mistakes and the opportunity to transform them in real time as the art is happening. But life has taught me that it is not enough to make the art or be talented; It has to be shared, gifted, received, experienced and exchanged like a healing currency. Which brings me to the art of mentorship, an umbrella that gives space for all art forms to be the foundation for the youth & for us all.
Leo “DaVincci” Mayorga is a HipHop producer and song writer hailing from West Kendall Florida. A well seasoned underground MC with a wide range of production including HipHop, RnB-Soul, Trap and Reggae as his medium. Credits of production include DJ EFN, Dead Prez, David Banner, N.O.R.E., Sizzla, Bernz, MC Eiht, Ras Kass and Killer Mike. Leo also has been working as a rap mentor for Guitars
Over Guns Org. Since 2015 working in Dade County at Georgie Jones Ayers Middle, Citrus Middle and Brownsville Middle in Liberty City.
Production
Andrew McCoy is a former professional baseball player turned music producer. After 17 instrumental projects, he released his first album, PASADENA, In February of 2022. He will follow up with the release of In The Water in the Fall of 2023. Drew (as his friends know him) has worked with a variety of organizations helping children from the US Baseball Academy to Lotus House in an effort to support the communities that surround him. Andrew began his 22 Wins LLC in 2021 by selling out of his Vantage hoodies and will follow up with shirts and candles with is upcoming album.
Keys & Drums
Jean Petit-Homme and is a piano mentor at GOGO who started his journey with us playing in our Alumni Band. He loves working with kids and believes it’s a privilege to be able to have such an impact on young people to help them grow and learn more about the art of music.
Piano
My name is Junior AKA juju and I am a GOGO mentor. I’ve been apart for about 2/half years. Started off doing a few shows with Caleb and I did my first 2022-2023 as a mentor. I am a firm believer in Jesus Christ, he is legit the reason why I’m in music. He saved me from captivity and forever grateful. I want to be able to share that same love with everyone unless especially my students. I want my students to know that there is better and there is more. I want them to feel loved and comfortable enough to express themselves and grow in wisdom subs knowledge. I want them to have better opportunities than I’ve ever had.
Music Production
Julian Munro is a record producer, mix/recording engineer, multi multi-instrumentalist.
Born and raised in Miami, he has over 10 years of experience working in the music industry. He started teaching music production mid 2022 and has a passion for teaching and inspiring the youth.
Peruvian musician, born in the summer of 1987s, Alejandra Pizarro began to learn to play the trumpet at her school in Lima. By the age of 14, she became the lead trumpet at the “Orquesta Interescolar Jazz en Lima”, and in 2004 she became part of the trumpet section of the “Orquesta Juvenil de Música Nueva” later touring with them to Europe.
In 2008, Alejandra began to study at the Music Conservatory of Perú where she received her Music degree in 2015. She also recorded the first “Colectivo Circo Band” album called “PAWAWN” and toured through almost every region of Peru with the band. A few years later she became the music teacher at “Sinfonía por el Perú”, youth Symphonic Orchestra of the peruvian tenor, Juan Diego Flores. For six years Alejandra was apart of the Preludio Asociación cultural’s Orchestra, playing in Broadway musicals for 6 years. Also, she was a musician for the National Symphonic Orchestra and Operas and Zarzuelas at the most recognized theatre in Lima and attended to “Chosen Vale Trumpet Seminar”, in 2015. In 2018 she got a Full scholarship to get a master’s degree at New Jersey City University. She also shared the stage with some recognized musicians as: Wynton Marsalis, Bobby Shew, Mariah Schneider, John Benitez, Lakecia Benjamin, Ariacne Trujillo, Eva Ayllón, Susana Baca, Juan Diego Flores, Tito Nieves, Diego Torres, Gianmarco, Christian Meier, Maricarmen Marín and many others. In March 2019 she released her first solo music album called: “Soy Libre” in every digital platform.
At the present Alejandra is attending MDC Kendall for an Associate degree in Music Business, she holds a Master of Music from New Jersey City University, being student of Bobby Shew, John Benitez, Nathan Eklund, Tim Horner, Ariacne Trujillo and Garry Dial.
Guitar
Ryan Rachal is a musician born in Memphis, raised in Nashville, Tennessee, and is now residing in Miami Florida. Grew up listening to everything from the Beatles, Johnny Cash, Chet Baker, Elvis, Stevie Ray Vaughn, The Ramones, Dolly Parton, Cure, Marvin Gaye, Metallica, and Louis Armstrong, to name a few. He learned to love all genres, and therefore, has been influenced to perform many genres. Ryan’s talent has been passed down by his grandfather, who was a touring lap steel session guitarist playing regularly at the Memphis Peabody hotel, which gave him the opportunity to play with Elvis before Elvis was a huge success.
Over 10 years of playing live music, Ryan is well known locally in Miami. Starting with a melodic rock band “7 Seas” to acoustic soul-rock band “The Zipperz” and now also as solo singer-songwriter, he has played numerous great shows–from the intimate ‘Sofar Sounds’ music festivals, breweries, wineries, restaurants, and animal sanctuaries Working with 3 music agencies. He also supports the scene by doing volunteer work and booking local acts. Works for ‘Guitars over Guns’ as a music mentor for Madison Middle. Ryan is also the Airbnb intimate concert host- booking travelers and locals together!
Ryan has grown his songwriting repertoire into an eclectic variety that will hit your senses. Ryan has ‘no limit’ to his writing style. One of his best performed songs- ‘Home Again’ (attached)was the top 3 finalist in 2014 Guitar Center Songwriting Competition. As of recently, Ryan has been recording and preparing his new EP!
Programs Manager, South
Born and raised in Medellín, Colombia, Camilo Velez is a composer, producer, multi-instrumentalist, and visual artist based in Miami. He attended the prestigious Frost School of Music at the University of Miami, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Production and Composition of Music for TV, Film, and Media.
Camilo has been a vibrant part of the Miami music scene for the past 15 years, performing locally, nationally, and internationally. He has showcased his talents at major festivals such as III Points and Altavoz in Colombia.
His work includes features on notable albums like Polygons (2023), Where’d You Go (2019) by Butterfly Snapple, and Orden (2017) by Muning.
Before his current role as a Program Manager, Camilo was a Site Coordinator and Mentor for three years at Guitars Over Guns, a nonprofit organization that empowers youth through music education and mentorship.
Currently, Camilo focuses on researching and implementing self-actualization practices into daily life and creating social awareness around the importance of self-development.
Drums
Spoken Word Poetry
Salam The Poet is a Spoken Word artist from the southeast side of Chicago. Writing for over over a decade a piece. Salam uses his craft to spread dope energy through creativity, affirmation, and interaction. Salam’s talent has taken him to stages as big as Bantu Fest, 24/7 Hip Hop’s ‘Check Da Mic’, Columbia College Chicago’s ‘Manifest’, and The Broward Center for Performing Arts, to spaces as small as High School classrooms, family gatherings, and various community events. Since then, his endeavors have lead him to becoming the host of his own open mic called ‘Spit Yo Peace’ as well as 1/6 of the artistic conglomerate ‘The Goat Pen Society’ where he continues to use art, affirmation, energy, and interaction to reach people while simultaneously creating a community safe space.
Vocals
Born and raised in Miami, Florida, Penelope Cruz; artistically known as Penelope Santacruz, has always been surrounded by music. Her father, Daniel Santacruz is an award-winning singer/songwriter who has introduced Penelope into the world of artistry with the bachata duet she sang alongside him, “”Mi Estrellita de Algodon,”” establishing her career as a singer/songwriter herself. Currently working on upcoming releases, her relaxed mix of R&B, pop, and Spanish are the essence of her sound, which captivates those searching for a melodious feel. She is currently obtaining an A.S. in Music Business Creative Production from Miami Dade College and has recently joined Tropics Entertainment as a vocalist for the band Cameo, amping up her stage presence and live performance. Penelope’s musical journey has just begun, and she is ecstatic about her latest endeavor as a Mentor for Guitars Over Guns and the magic of teaching!