On Friday, December 5, Wayne Center for the Arts welcomed acclaimed jazz artist Theron Brown to the auditorium for a dynamic and uplifting workshop designed especially for high school musicians. More than 45 students from Waynedale High School attended the session, filling the room with curiosity, energy, and a deep love for music.
The workshop, presented in partnership with the Tri-County Educational Service Center, the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education, and Wayne Center for the Arts, offered students a rare opportunity to learn directly from a nationally recognized performer, educator, and composer.
A Masterclass in Creativity
Over the course of the workshop, Theron guided students through his creative process—how he writes songs, approaches improvisation, and draws inspiration from the world around him. He shared stories of his early beginnings in Zanesville, Ohio, where music first took root in the rhythms of church, and how jazz legends like Thelonious Monk helped shape his artistic journey.
Theron encouraged students to explore their own voices boldly and authentically. His message was clear:
“It’s important, now more than ever, for people to create and express what’s in their heart. It adds to our culture and tells the story of today. It’s also just good to release the ideas and try new things.”
He reminded students that they won’t love every piece of art they encounter, but they can learn to respect all art, because artists everywhere are sharing pieces of their heart with the world.
An Artist with a Global Reach and Local Heart
Theron Brown’s career has taken him from the Kennedy Center to Tokyo’s Kokusai Forum Hall, and from sharing stages with the Cleveland Orchestra to collaborating with Snarky Puppy. Many know him from his memorable portrayal of a young Herbie Hancock in Don Cheadle’s Miles Ahead. Yet despite his international acclaim, Theron remains deeply committed to the arts in Northeast Ohio.
He currently serves as the artist coordinator for Curated Storefronts and Akron’s I Promise School, teaches throughout the region, and leads community events such as the Rubber City Jazz & Blues Festival. His dedication to mentorship shone brightly during his time with Waynedale students—reminding them that music is not only a craft, but a lifelong journey.
Strengthening Arts Education Through Partnership
This workshop is part of the Tri-County Educational Service Center’s long-standing commitment to enriching arts opportunities for students across Wayne, Holmes, and Ashland Counties. Their fine arts programming spans all grade levels, art forms, and ability levels, ensuring that every student can grow, explore, and discover a love for the arts. Many of these programs are made possible through collaborations with community partners, including Wayne Center for the Arts and the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education.
The Ohio Alliance for Arts Education also plays a key role in this work, advocating statewide to ensure that arts learning remains an essential part of every child’s education. This event reflects their shared mission: to empower young people through rich, meaningful experiences in the arts.
Special thanks go to Domino’s and Bowman Beverage for generously providing lunch for participating students and instructors. Their support helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for an unforgettable day of learning.