The YOU and Gallery U Enter New Partnership

Youniversity of Music and Arts, Bethlehem’s community music school, that offers instruction to all ages, announced today that it is partnering with the new Gallery U Center for a music and art exchange. The Youniversity, located at 700 Evans St., is provides drumming instruction to clients of the Gallery U, while the Gallery supplies artwork for the walls of Youniversity.

Gallery U, located at 314 E. Third St., Bethlehem, is part of the
Universal Institute Rehabilitation & Living Centers. The local unit serves
individuals with traumatic brain injuries, providing a vocational training program to assist them to return to the work force. The U offers a unique art therapy program and much of the artwork displayed in the gallery space is handcrafted by the center’s clients.

“This is an excellent partnership for both organizations,” said Valentina Jotovic, C.E.O. of The Youniversity. “We were seeking inspiring artwork for our walls and the Gallery clients are enjoying the music therapy we are providing.”

Youniversity instructor Andrew Lynn meets with Gallery U clients once a week to teach them drumming basics on conga and bongo drums.
“ Music and art therapies are both important for multiple reasons, explains Allison Smith, Assistant Director of the Gallery U’s Rehabilitation Department. “Not only do these types of therapy encourage the use of fine motor skills, but they also promote mental and emotional well-being, such as relieving stress or anxiety and improving mood. Music and art therapy also act as a leisure outlet to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from brain trauma.” Smith added that the clients look forward to Lynn’s weekly drumming jam sessions. Many of the clients have also made their own maracas to use as another form of percussion. “Andrew is a great instructor and really engages all the clients in the music,” Smith added.

Approximately 25 pieces of mixed media artwork are now hanging in the
Youniversity, adding color and interest to the facility, Jotovic said.
“Aside from the fact that the artwork is beautiful and inspiring to look at,
we are happy to promote the good work that the Gallery U is doing, Jotovic
said. “Music and art not only enrich, but transform our lives. Art has healing powers for the human body and spirit.”

An Open House/Art Reception will take place on First Friday, May 4th, from 6-8 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the works, which will be available for purchase, and enjoy light refreshments. All proceeds from the sale of the artwork will be applied to the Gallery’s art therapy program for supplies and ongoing expenses.

For more information, contact the Youniversity of Music and Arts at (877) 292-4973, and the Gallery U at 610-625-4959.

(By Sharon McCarthy)