Please note: Road construction on Grand Blvd north of I-64/40 may delay travel to Powell Hall. Allow extra time or use an alternate route.

Peer to Peer Students

This unique mentoring program pairs musicians of the St. Louis Symphony Youth Orchestra with dedicated Black and Latiné music students from Gateway Music Outreach (GMO). SLSO musicians serve as coaches for each student pair during regular meetings throughout the school year.

Meet the 25/26 Peer to Peer students

Rodney Newson

Rodey is a Freshman at Hazelwood Central High School. This is his first year participating in Peer to Peer and he is excited to see what the year brings. Rodney started playing the cello in the 4th grade. Rodney says playing the cello gives him peace. After high school, Rodney wants to attend a performing arts college, continue to perform, and eventually teach music. Rodney enjoys watching anime and playing soccer.

Rodney 's YO partner, Andrew Su

Teilakay Strong

Teilakay is a freshman at Westminster Christian Academy. She has been playing the violin for 6 years. Teilakay enjoys a variety of classical music. Participating in Peer to Peer educational and fun, and she enjoys attending St. Louis Symphony Orchestra concerts. Teilakay is a big fan of Hilary Hahn and TwoSet Violin.

Teilakay's YO partner, Brandon Hu

Zxphina Strong

Zxhpina is a senior at Westminster Christian Academy. She loves a variety of music ranging from classical to modern. Zxphina has been playing the violin since 2019 and the guitar since 2022. She also experiments with song composition. Music is a large part of her life. Zxphina plans to pursue a career in which music can be involved. She greatly appreciates participating in Peer to Peer. It has helped her grow not only as a musician but also as a person.

Zxphina's YO partner, Aiden Moon

David Townsend

David Townsend attends Hazelwood Northwest middle school and is in the 7th grade. He started playing the violin and switched over to the double bass. This is his first season in Peer to Peer. David likes all instruments but the double bass is his favorite. He hopes to follow his music career and one day be a famous basketball player.

David's partner, G Schmiedeke

Recent Graduates

Close up of a violin being played by a violinist

Harrison Killion

Harrison Killion attends Knox College where he is learning more about himself while honing his academic and musical abilities. He has played the violin since 2015 and participated in Peer to Peer from 2018 to 2025. Harrison loves playing violin because it has opened the door to many opportunities for him. At Knox, He is also learning to play guitar and piano. For fun, Harrison enjoys going on walks, working out, cooking, and hanging out with his friends. Harrison currently is interested in psychology and aims to allow this interest to guide his college development.