Community Unity Music Education Program (CUMEP)

A lively scene featuring a diverse group of adults and children gathered together outdoors, likely participating in a community event. In the foreground, a man in a yellow cap and shirt and a woman in a green shirt hold microphones, actively engaging with the onlookers. Children in colorful attire, including red, orange, and purple shirts, sit and stand around them. A large banner in the background displays the inspirational words, 'Every great dream begins with a dreamer,' against a backdrop of vibrant playground equipment. The setting is lush with greenery, creating a cheerful, inclusive atmosphere filled with laughter and joy.

CRNY artists Dr. Nia Nunn and Alan “Fe” Nunn

Photo courtesy of Dr. Nia Nunn

Two young children stand on a concrete surface, both dressed in oversize green t-shirts. They are holding a large, colorful poster that reads 'Respect My Bubble' featuring two large pink bubbles. The children appear to be smiling and engaged with one another, suggesting a playful and friendly atmosphere. They are surrounded by other children and a few adults, some seated on benches or the ground. A couple of drums can be seen in the background, hinting at a musical or cultural event taking place. The setting is outdoors, likely in a park, with trees providing some shade.

Youth of CUMEP

Photo courtesy of Dr. Nia Nunn

A group of young children stands on stage during a Black History Month event. The children are at the front, holding large printed signs featuring portraits and names of significant Black historical figures, such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman. They are dressed in matching blue T-shirts, possibly indicating they are part of a school or community group. Seated behind them are other children, wearing similar outfits and appearing attentive to the proceedings. Large, colorful educational books themed on Black history are placed in front of the group, reinforcing the theme of the event. The setting suggests a school auditorium or community hall with a focus on education and awareness.

Youth of CUMEP celebrating Black history

Photo courtesy of Dr. Nia Nunn

A group of children are participating in an educational presentation outdoors. They stand in a row holding signs that collectively form a message. Two of the children are holding a large, colorful poster that represents Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, but humorously labeled as "Maslow's Hierarchy of NERDS." The wall behind them features a vibrant mural with a rainbow, tree, and zebra. Several adults are present, some playing musical instruments like a guitar. Children and adults wear colorful T-shirts, adding to the lively atmosphere, while some people are seated on the ground, watching the presentation.

Youth of CUMEP learning about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs

Photo courtesy of Daraisi Marie

Children and an adult are engaged in a leaf rubbing activity at a classroom table. Each child has a sheet of paper placed over large, textured leaves and is using crayons to rub over the paper, revealing the patterns of the leaves underneath. One child is wearing a red T-shirt with a music-themed design and seems focused on the task. The adult, standing across the table, guides the children, showing them how to perform the activity. Various leaves and crayons are scattered across the table, indicating a hands-on, creative learning environment.

Leaf printing activity

Photo by Maryam Adib

A group of people engaged in painting a mural on the wall of an alleyway. The alley walls are decorated with vibrant artwork, including nature and abstract designs. One adult stands on a step ladder painting details, while two young people use long paint rollers to reach higher parts of the wall, all smiling and appearing to enjoy the collaborative effort. The setting is urban, with one wall covered in lush green ivy, and buildings visible in the background. Paint supplies are scattered on the ground, emphasizing the artistic activity taking place.

Collaboration on Community Healing Mural Design by CRNY artist Annemarie Zwack

Photo by Annemarie Zwack

A colorful illustration of a suburban schoolyard featuring a prominent two-story brick building with white accents, set against a backdrop of green hills and a bright sky with fluffy clouds. In the foreground, a playground area includes a basketball hoop and an elaborate jungle gym with slides. A vibrant green lawn surrounds the buildings, adorned with flower beds of red blooms and bordered by a black metal fence. The walking path is slightly curved, leading up to the school entrance, and a cozy neighborhood is visible in the background, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere of the scene.

CUMEP book illustration by CRNY artist Annemarie Zwack

Photo courtesy of Annemarie Zwack

The Collaboration

Maryam Adib, Resana Malone, Daraisi Marte, Alan “Fe” Nunn, Nia Nunn, Nicole Bethany Onwuka, Cyepress Brathwaite, Harry Smith, and Annemarie Zwack worked with the Community Unity Music Education Program (CUMEP) in Ithaca, NY as part of an invigorating adventure offering all participating artists an opportunity to explore and deliver creative energies as well as innovative curriculum. Activities included a theater intensive leadership winter camp, a musical production, a new logo design, creative entrepreneurial workshops, a Black Consciousness Curriculum journal and calendar, community murals, and original music composition. The collaboration provided opportunities for CUMEP youth to take ownership by leading projects to benefit the community, including a child who helped lead a parade as part of a festival in Ithaca. CUMEP also reached a major milestone by establishing its 501c3 status, celebrating 21 years of service, creative curriculum, and transformation within its community.

The Organization

CUMEP empowers and uplifts children of all walks of life so they can develop self-awareness, academic success and social/civic responsibility through the performing arts.

Working with CUMEP, has been freeing & inspiring. I’ve developed as an Artist, all while being introduced to what it means to dream. Nicole Bethany Onwuka

A youth who had been struggling at school engaged in CUMEP to work on a mural. At the unveiling, he said he hoped people looking at it felt less alone, because that was how working on it made him feel.