Community Resources
GRP uplifts and spotlights our incredible cohort of volunteers, organizers, creators, consultants as an available resource to our broader networks during COVID & beyond!
While we may not be able to gather in person for Rock Camp, we know that the need for music and meaningful connection still exists for the young people and adults in the GRP community. We're hopeful that through this uncertain time, our campers and volunteers will still be able to tap into GRP's magic by connecting with new/familiar faces through the power of music, learning and community. This list is an ever-growing introduction to just a few of the incredible educators at GRP who are available during this time to give virtual music lessons and community skill-shares!
Music Instructors
Nina Rajagopalan
I have many years of experience studying and playing music. I love collaborating with my students to create lessons that incorporate their musical tastes. I want every lesson to feel exciting and to relate back to what makes the student feel most enthusiastic. I like to jam with students to practice their listening skills and to make it feel like a real band practice! I usually blend elements of music theory with instrument study. I love to play in rock bands but I appreciate and listen to all styles of music!
Teaches: Piano, guitar, bass, drums, voice
Rates: $30 for online/ $45 for in person (I think I’m willing to negotiate on this depending on family’s needs.)
Works with ages: 7+
Links to music: Jellyphilly.bandcamp.com
Email nina.rajagopalan@gmail.com
Em Downing
Hello! My name is Em (they/she). Reach out if you would be interested in virtual one-on-one or group violin lessons. My instrument teaching style is very hands on, and less about technical and musical theory and more about ear training, improv, and learning to write your own music or parts to play with others. I also am available to virtually trouble-shoot on gear questions, such as pedals! I can also virtually take you through Reaper if you are interested in home recording.
Teaches: violin, gear, basic home recording on reaper
Rates: Free
Email: em.downing.sounds@gmail.com
Sally Louise Polk
I am a classically trained violinist who has been making rock and alternative music for ten years. I use the a boss loop pedal for my one-woman act, creating the sound of a full band with just one person. If you are interested in learning violin or loop pedal, please feel free to contact me!
Teaches: violin and loop pedal
Rates: $30-$55 online, $45-$65 in person and a $10-$20 tip if student requires me traveling
Link to music: www.thunderthighss.bandcamp.com
Email: sallylouisepolk@gmail.com
Andrea Giraldo
I’m a music therapist so I would love to support people in the process of finding their own voice and confidently singing with freedom. If you interested in exploring yourself and seeking personal growth and wellbeing through music, I’d love to support that process.
Teaches: voice
Rates: Sliding scale $25-$45/hr for online or in person teaching
Email: anpagiso@hotmail.com
General Community Resources
As always, the latest updates from the City will be posted on www.phila.gov/covid-19.
Coping During COVID-19: A Resource Guide for Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ Communities
City Council Announces $1M In Arts and Culture Grants
Be Intentional Financial: River Nice
My name is River Nice, my pronouns are they/them, and I run a business called Be Intentional Financial. It is a remote, fee-only financial planning firm that specializes in working with trans and queer individuals and families. We help clients understand their current financial situation, figure out their short- and long-term financial goals, and make a plan to get from here to there!
Resource Offering: Financial planning!
Works with ages: 18+
Identities Centered: I center trans and queer individuals and families, but am happy to work with anyone!
Rates: $250+/month: I offer free half-hour consultations with no commitment! You can schedule a consultation via my website.
Link to website:https://beintentionalfinancial.com/
Meg Wolensky
Need a little boost of artistic energy in your day? Whether you’re a novice or expert, you’re invited to join local painter and art instructor Meg Wolensky for a lively injection of daily creativity. Offerings include a range of exciting learning opportunities, from one-on-one instruction for adults to group instruction for kiddos. Each virtual session is tailored to your specific interests while exploring foundations techniques, advanced topics in various painting/mixed-media methods, individual critique, and no-fail DIY projects with gorgeous results!
Resource Offering: Individualized Art Instruction (including general painting, oil painting, watercolor, acrylic, college portfolio prep, charcoal, graphite, mixed media, and more!)
Works with ages: 13+
Identities Centered: I center trans and queer individuals and families, but am happy to work with anyone!
Rates: Sliding scale ($20 - $100, depending upon services requested)
Link to website: Www.megwolensky.com
Email: Megwolensky@gmail.com
Em Downing
Hello. I'm Em (they/she). I live in West Philly and can provide assistance with:
- Navigating healthcare
- Applying for benefits and assistance
- Finding doctors, scheduling appointments.
- Resumes and Cover Letters
- Simple Website
- Navigating Art and Music Industries
- Applying for shows, residencies, press, funding, booking.
- Pet care
- Gardening
- Vegetarian Meal
Rates: Free
Email: em.downing.sounds@gmail.com