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LJMS
My name is Alice Laurissa and I am the director of LJMS. I am Graduate of Howard University and LaGuardia H.S. of Music and Arts & Performing Arts.
My name is Alice Laurissa and I am the director of LJMS. I am Graduate of Howard University and LaGuardia H.S. of Music and Arts & Performing Arts.
I Am an artist, who believes true self-expression can only be found when we are able to tap our innermost emotions, with music this is made possible. It's even better when we teach our young children how to fully express themselves through music all while giving them an open platform to be themselves.
I Am an artist, who believes true self-expression can only be found when we are able to tap our innermost emotions, with music this is made possible. It's even better when we teach our young children how to fully express themselves through music all while giving them an open platform to be themselves.
Learning music lets our young generation re-learn how to do things by themselves, learn a positive skill and keep away from the negative influences they encounter everyday It's something I was able to do and I want to keep that going. When the school day is over, children may participate in the Laurissa Jane Music Performing Arts Program.
Learning music lets our young generation re-learn how to do things by themselves, learn a positive skill and keep away from the negative influences they encounter everyday It's something I was able to do and I want to keep that going. When the school day is over, children may participate in the Laurissa Jane Music Performing Arts Program.
OUR BOARD of DIRECTORS
OUR BOARD of DIRECTORS
Kelly-Marie Mingo, Secretary
Kelly-Marie Mingo, Secretary
A proud Southeast Queens native, Kelly-Marie Mingo has supported Laurissa Jane Music for more than 13 years, helping shape its growth and community impact since its early days. As Secretary of the Board, she drives organizational planning, communication, and record keeping with precision and heart. Professionally, Kelly-Marie serves as a Contract Manager and Legal Operations strategist at JetBlue and leads Dream Chic Events, a boutique experiential design company rooted in culture and joy. A committed community advocate, proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and program manager for JetBlue’s African Diaspora Experience Crewmember Resource Group, she is dedicated to expanding access and opportunity for youth and continues to champion LJMS programs that inspire creativity, confidence, and collaboration across Southeast Queens
Eric N. Wheeler, Vice President
Eric N. Wheeler, Vice President
Eric Wheeler is a Washington, DC native and has been studying string bass for 20 years. Eric received both his Bachelor and Masters degrees from Howard University as of May 2006. Since then he has toured the world and performed with many notable jazz artist such as Stephon Harris, Tim Warfield, Benny Golson, Curtis Fuller, Delfeayo Marsalis, Russell Malone, Pharaoh Sanders, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Terell Stafford, and Cyrus Chestnut.
Alice Wheeler, President
Alice Wheeler, President
Our Teaching Artists & Staff
Our Teaching Artists & Staff
The LJMS Summer Musical Theatre Program is led by a dedicated team of experienced teaching artists, educators, and arts professionals who are passionate about youth development and performing arts excellence. Our staff bring diverse backgrounds in music, theater, dance, and arts education, combining professional performance experience with strong instructional expertise.
Each instructor is committed to creating a safe, structured, and inspiring learning environment where students feel supported and challenged to grow. From vocal coaching and choreography to acting technique and production design, our team works collaboratively to ensure every student receives personalized guidance and meaningful performance opportunities.
Throughout the summer, guest teaching artists join the program to provide masterclasses and specialized workshops, exposing students to industry insight and varied artistic perspectives.
At LJMS, our staff are not only skilled artists—they are mentors who model professionalism, discipline, and creativity while nurturing confidence and teamwork in every student.
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