Teen Grace Music

My name is Kristyn Murphy and I am nineteen years old. I founded Teen Grace Music when I was about fourteen years old, for a number of different reasons. I believe that communities should be told that not all youth are focused on the negativities of life. I feel that communities should understand that a rural state, such as Maine, is able to offer many, if not more opportunities to young musicians than more populated areas of our country. I want to help youth understand the importance of a solid foundation and strong individuality. Most importantly, I have a never-ending desire to encourage youth to pursue their musical interests, and encourage them to use their talents to address issues within their community, the country, or even the world. When I was thirteen, I recorded a patriotic CD, with three of my middle school classmates. We recorded the CD, which was dedicated to the heroes of America, in response to the 9-11 terrorist attacks on the United States of America. We had a message of hope and gratitude to share, and when we were able to reach both adults and children on emotional levels, with our music, I was inspired. If people, adults and children alike, were willing to listen to the voices (not just in a musical sense) of four middle scholars, it would go to reason that they would listen to other youth, especially if music was the communication tool used. It was because of these events that I was truly inspired to create Teen Grace Music. It is hard to measure the impact Teen Grace Music has had upon different communities and individuals, the important thing is that Teen Grace Music is making a difference. Teen Grace Music has moved within many communities, states, and countries. Concert presented in my hometown usually have an audience between 100-500 members, while news stories and newspaper articles tend to reach thousands. The youth directed impacted by Teen Grace Music’s work would number over 1000. Online websites reach out to between 20,000 and 80,000 individuals a year. Musical recordings have impacted individuals in many countries including the United States, England, Japan, Canada, Finland, Australia, France, New Zealand, China, and Italy. Also, Iraq and Afghanistan where U.S. soldiers are stationed.