For vocalist and composer Johnaye Kendrick, getting nominated for her fifth Grammy Award is a huge personal achievement. “This nomination means a lot to me,” she shares. As the chair of music at Cornish College of the Arts, she’s seen the vibrant music scene and feels honored that her work stands out among so many talented artists.
Kendrick is not just a performer; she’s a founding member of the vocal quartet säje, which blends various music styles, from jazz to original compositions. She believes that each role she plays influences the others. “When I create, I bring all my experiences together,” she explains. This holistic approach helps her create music that feels genuine and true to herself.
Through her label, johnygirl, Kendrick aims to push musical boundaries. As the Composer in Residence for Key to Change, a local organization dedicated to making music accessible to youth, she’s intentional about her compositions. “I always consider the musicians and their context when I write,” she says. This thoughtful approach reflects her commitment to nurturing young talent.
Currently, säje is working on their second album, which is in the mixing stage. Kendrick emphasizes that this project is about growth. “We’re taking our time to ensure it truly represents who we are now,” she notes.
Her Grammy nomination only fuels her passion for teaching. “This experience shapes both my teaching and leadership,” Kendrick states. She encourages her students to embrace risks and see failures as stepping stones. “Growth happens in those uncertain moments,” she adds, highlighting the magic found in exploration.
Looking to the future, Kendrick hopes her work leaves a legacy of creativity and empowerment. “If I can inspire artists to embrace their uniqueness, I’ll have succeeded,” she reflects. For her, the music world, from classrooms to Grammy stages, is full of possibilities, and she’s determined to lead others as she continues her journey.
Recent surveys show that a growing number of young musicians are exploring non-traditional genres, representing a shift in the music industry. Kendrick’s approach aligns with this trend, showing that innovation can be powerful in shaping new musical landscapes.
By blending fresh ideas with traditional learning, she embodies a future where music is inclusive and inspiring, continuing to influence artists for years to come.
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