Inside the Community: A Conversation with Jess Garland of Swan Strings

as seen in Guitar Girl Magazine Special Issue 2022 – I Belong

swan strings is a non-profit musical organization run by Jess Garland, also known as Jess, the fantastic jazz harpist. Jess is the founder of Swan Strings, whose mission is to provide free music education and sound therapy services to people in North Texas who do not have access to music programs. Using her talents as a multi-instrumentalist and educator, Jess offers guitar, harp, and songwriting lessons to her students. She has provided over 226 of her children with her 339+ hours of free music education. Music education has the power to inspire and empower children and adults of all ages. It is also a bridge to self-expression and creativity. guitar girl magazine We spoke with Jess to learn about Swan Strings and how the power of music education can help uplift, encourage and inspire communities. She delves into her experience as a black woman in the classical music industry.

What are Swan Strings and what is your mission? How did Swan Strings start?
Swan Strings is a music nonprofit organization that provides free music education, community concerts, and sound therapy services to inaccessible North Texas individuals. It started in 2017 as a program called Guitar His Lessons by Jess. As an independent solo artist he had just received his first grant. I originally wrote Grant for La Londala, a program founded by my mentor and bandmate, the late Dennis Gonzalez. Since 2017, the program has provided approximately 679 hours of free music education and served 308 children. Last year we did his 340 hours of free music and added his 82 new students to the program.

How was your journey as founder and director of Swan Strings?
The trip has been great overall and I have received a lot of love and support from the community. I always receive instrumental donations from WRR and provide KXT and KERA functionality. Visit Dallas supports me and Wild Turkey and Matthew McConaughey recognize me as a local legend.

Where is your organization located and who can benefit from the opportunity to experience music education offered by Swan Strings?
We are located in Dallas, Texas and primarily serve North Texas of all ages. Reached an audience other than I think there are a lot of young people and adults who would benefit from the education that Swan Strings provides.

What types of music classes does Swan Strings offer?
I mainly take guitar lessons. However, we also offer bass guitar, harp, songwriting and vocal music.

Why is music education and giving back to the community so important to your organization?
The services I offer cannot be found in most schools. I live the effect it had on me as a child. As an educator, I have seen how it changes the lives of many families.

What other programs does Swan Strings offer besides music lessons?
In addition, we offer free or low-cost concerts. We also want to expand to offer music in hospitals, nursing homes and hospice care facilities.

When are lessons and sound therapy services available for students who want to participate?
We offer programs year-round, after school and on weekends.

How can you donate and support Swans Strings’ mission to provide music education and sound therapy services?
We accept donations through our GoFundMe page. Swan Strings 501c3 – Free Music Lessonsfundraising event or by visiting our website jessstrings.com.

How do you feel that black women are underrepresented in an industry that thrives on exploiting and appropriating black culture?
I think it’s intentional for people to be taught that black women are not innovators if we’re the blueprint for all areas of music. Sister Rosetta Tharp, Alice Coltrane, Sylvia Robinson and Missy Elliott, we are the creators of rock, jazz and hip hop. We often create our own genres. I call my music Ethereal Jazz.

What has your experience been like as a black woman in the classical music genre? How do you feel there is a need for more representation of black women in classical music?
I’ve worked in orchestras for many years, and I don’t remember seeing a black female musician in office. We have been educators and guest services, but there are no seats on stage. I got a seat. Yet there has always been a shortage of agencies with the convenience of using my skin color and gender to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. I was seen as physically intimidating rather than submissive whenever my skill set or talents were questioned.

Do you have any advice for black women who want to get into classical music or the music business?
Join various organizations within the community. Create committees, hold meetings and use your voice. Stay away from distractions and noise, and protect yourself from those who try to interfere with your mission. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to start your own business or organisation, as there is something that most places can’t offer.

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