Ben Gellman

Former J Street campus organizer

Johns Hopkins University 2018,
Computer Science and Mathematics

I did choir and JMM Singers all four years, and I participated in three winter musicals: Beauty and the Beast, Thoroughly Modern Millie, and Singin' in the Rain. I have vivid memories of many of my choir and musical performances. Some highlights include singing the Missa Criolla by Ariel Ramírez, learning to tap-dance for Thoroughly Modern Millie, and performing at the Orpheum with JMM Singers for an American Family Children's Hospital benefit.

The JMM music and theater programs enriched my life immensely by teaching me musical skills and giving me a taste for performing. Because of my experience there, I auditioned for and was accepted into my university's premiere a cappella group.

I support this campaign because I believe that access to arts education is essential for high school students. The staff, students, and parents of JMM are incredibly committed to giving students the best arts experience possible, but it's clear that the building's limited and outdated facilities place an undue burden on the education process.

It is so important for a public school to provide strong facilities for music education, especially since many students may not have access to such facilities anywhere else. In the year 2021, individual practice rooms, production facilities, and a modern theater setting are essential for providing a modern music education. I know that this facility would serve countless students and better the community as a whole.