INSPIRATION THROUGH MUSIC

Jamie Berland is a multi-instrumentalist, performer, and artist of many mediums. As a classically trained violinist from the age of three, she has grown over the years to explore jazz, contemporary, punk and experimental genres which lead her to pursue a degree in violin performance from Berklee College of Music.

Jamie often performs her original music both as a solo act and along with ensembles all around the country. Having played alongside Styx, Kenny Loggins, Melissa Etheridge and others, Jamie is well versed in the rock genre of strings as well. As a passionate improviser, Jamie is especially respected within the jazz community both in Boston and in Cleveland. As both an artist and a teacher, Jamie feels it is her mission to embrace the authenticity and raw beauty that exists within this sort of explorative creative process of music making. Jamie has been a teaching artist with the Center for Arts Inspired Learning since summer of 2024 and has thoroughly enjoyed sharing her passion for music with the students of ITM. Teaching both violin and guitar across three of ITM’s program sites, she has supplemented several young artists on their creative journeys, aiming to help them to reach the magic and their full potential as musicians.

Malik G. Burks grew up playing drums in church, and he also joined the percussion section in 5th grade at Shaker Heights Schools. Malik continued playing percussion all the way through 12th grade graduation, and in that time he and his classmates were gifted an opportunity of a lifetime to play overseas in Istanbul, Turkey and its surrounding cities. Thereafter, he proceeded to complete the Traditional Theory course at Tri-C. Malik taught music at Rainey Institute from 2014-2020, and now he is currently teaching with Arts Reaching Kids Inc. Malik found a passion for helping others learn various percussion instruments whilst teaching music theory as well!

Keyboard & Voice Teaching Artist

A committed third-year music education major, Alyssa is deeply passionate about breaking down barriers to music and championing inclusivity within the musical realm. Alyssa’s foundation in classical and jazz music has not only shaped their academic journey but has also fueled their enthusiasm for diverse musical expressions.

Having taken center stage in several bands, Alyssa has honed their skills as a versatile musician and performer. Beyond the spotlight, their commitment extends to the community. Alyssa has actively engaged with music education programs across Cleveland, Ohio, striving to make the transformative power of music accessible to all.

Whether conducting workshops, collaborating with local initiatives, or participating in musical outreach, Alyssa’s goal is to contribute to a vibrant, inclusive musical landscape. Through their experiences and dedication, Alyssa aims to inspire a love for music and ensure that it resonates with people from all walks of life.

Violin Teaching Artist

Ethan Sheils is the violin instructor for Inspiration Through Music, with sessions at Cudell Recreation Center and Thurgood Marshall Recreation Center.

Ethan taught instrumental and classroom music from 1998-2006 in the Cleveland Municipal School District, where he earned National Board Certification in Early/Middle Childhood Music, and taught beginning strings and middle school bands and orchestras in the Solon City Schools from 2006-2011. Ethan has taught at The Music Settlement since 2012, delivering outreach instruction, conducting numerous string ensembles, and teaching private lessons. In addition to performing as a violinist in orchestras, string quartets, and big bands, Ethan also enjoys playing the saxophone in jazz, blues, and rock bands in the Cleveland area. Ethan earned a Bachelor of Music Education at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.