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

Denim Browder

Denim Browder is a multi-talented musician, conductor, and composer from St. Louis, Missouri. He is a tenth grader at Grand Center Arts Academy, where he serves as the Head Student Piano Accompanist and has been part of Peer to Peer for five years. Denim also performs at COCA (Center of Creative Arts), collaborating with vocalists, dancers, and ensembles. A skilled pianist and cellist, he began playing piano at age six and later conducted the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, leading Sleigh Ride with Byron Stripling at age 12. Mentored by Dr. Phillip Woodmore, Denim draws inspiration from Ray Charles and John Legend, blending gospel, classical, and contemporary styles. His passion for music continues to shine through his performances and dedication to inspiring others through sound.

Denim's YO partner, Eric Chang

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 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