I am incredibly touched by your book. The memories of teaching you in my music classes reflects the realities of a truly dedicated and hard working student who always showed love for music as well as an understanding of the environmental and historical factors that affected your drive and passion. Your voice in this book is authentic, empowering and uniquely you. I am so proud of you and your accomplishments. Thank God and thank you for allowing me to be just a small part of your fantastic journey.
 

Ms. Jane Brewer - Retired Music Teacher Woodbourne Junior High

 

This is a beautiful story about a critical time in the history of our country for African Americans.  These sisters’ story is personal but reflects the experience of many people we don’t hear about in school. This book is a wonderful tool to teach young people how an event in Civil Rights affected the lives of children like them.
 

Cheryl Crowder

JD, MSW, LICSW

 

This story reflects the power of an efficacious family, one that believed in their capacity to mobilize resources, overcome barriers, and create pathways for their daughters to succeed. Their confidence, faith, and determination shine through every page.
 

Dr. Deborah L. Wortham, CEO

Superintendent Emeritus

Wortham Educational Enterprises, LLC

 

DrDeborahLWortham.com

 

"Essential reading for all ages, with attention to detail that is truly captivating. I’m proud to support this remarkable book by two brilliant and accomplished sisters, Marilyn Barber and Judge Claudia Barber. The bus rides across Baltimore to the Peabody Preparatory Institute of Music during the civil rights unrest of the 1960s and 1970s are beautifully illustrated, offering vivid glimpses of the city at a pivotal moment in history. The story and illustrations together celebrate perseverance, cultural pride, and the belief that talent, discipline, and opportunity belong to everyone." 
 

Pocahontas Davis, Ed.D. - Retired Educational Leader

 

Thank you, Marilyn for sharing your book with me. I enjoyed reading your work and could hear the gratitude and respect you have for your parents' dual stewardship in preparing their daughters for success through practice, discipline, and music as a universal language.

 

It sounds like your mother was practicing non-violence and endurance in the midst of excluding and dismissive environments (e.g., navigating the bus and the Woolworth's Counter). At the heart of the work are these two little girls who are playful and curious children, being shepherded by dutiful and watchful parents who dare to reach and aspire.    
 

Dr. Tracy Robinson-Wood, Professor

Department of Applied Psychology

MSCP Program Director - Northeastern University
 

This story is an elegant tribute to every African American family who would not let oppression keep them from striving for excellence. The
young ladies in the book remind the world that with the right support and guidance, young African American children can achieve greatness in any environment. As a mother, music teacher and former student at Peabody Conservatory, I was truly inspired.

​

Charmaine Michelle

Trumpet player and Former Noble Levi Jolley Jr Jazz Scholar,  Peabody Conservatory

​

I was honored that my friendship with both Marilyn and Claudia has span for 50 years. We have been able to see life through our professions, academia, and music/performing dance careers. This book is has a clear impact for people of all ages not just children. The acceptance of African Americans into the world of the Arts has been an ongoing challenge. Yet, we were able to persevere, with our parents’ consistent support of love and foresight. The challenges we encounter can not be taken lightly. Indeed this memoir was a labor of love to be broadly shared and treasured by many. 

​

Leda Fuller
Colleague

​