Little Stompers
At Second Line Arts Collective, our Little Stompers program is dedicated to inspiring and cultivating the next generation of musicians and music lovers. Our interactive music education program immerses children in the vibrant music and culture of New Orleans and beyond, using culturally relevant music to help kids develop their musical skills while deepening their understanding of different regions' cultural history and traditions.
At Little Stompers, we offer various ways for children to engage with music, such as after-school programs, interactive concerts, comprehensive lesson plans, and Little Stompers Uptown Explorers - a community-based group class musical adventure tailored to young children. Our programs are designed to create an inclusive and supportive environment for children of all backgrounds, where diversity is celebrated, and a sense of community is fostered. Join us to provide your child with a space where they can thrive and develop a love for music.
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Our Teachers
Little Stompers takes pride in offering classes taught by seasoned teaching artists who possess three or more years of experience in live and remote education. We're committed to providing access to world-class educators who are passionate about music and teaching. Our goal is to provide a supportive and enriching musical environment that fosters creativity, learning, and fun.
Lyndon Harwood
Lyndon Harewood, also known as Gengis Don, joined the faculty of Little Stomper in 2020. With a lifelong passion for creating and crafting music, Don developed his musical talent at an early age through his involvement in church. After completing a degree in accounting and music composition, Don made the decision to pursue his dream of becoming a full-time musician. In 2018, he formed the hip hop/jazz band Gengis Don & the Empire, with whom he has shared stages with renowned acts like Solange, Braxton Cook, and Tiffany Haddish. Along with being a bandleader, Don is a master educator who excels in teaching music. Anyone who has had the opportunity to work with him on the bandstand or in the classroom can attest to his skill and expertise.
Meghan Stewart
Meghan Stewart, a Little Stomper faculty member since 2020, is a highly skilled jazz vocalist and master educator who specializes in sharing her extensive knowledge and experience in music. Having studied opera and choral education at the University of Southern Mississippi, she moved to New Orleans to further develop her expertise in jazz. Today, Meghan is known for her outstanding performances of modern and contemporary jazz standards with her band. Her passion for music and teaching shines through her dedicated work as a master educator. Her students on the bandstand and in the classroom have witnessed her exceptional skills and fervor for teaching firsthand.
Tim Sullivan
Tim is an experienced music educator, accomplished performer, and curriculum developer, who will be joining the faculty of Little Stomper in 2023. With a background in leading early music education classes and teacher trainings across the globe, Tim's passion for music and education is reflected in his contribution to Little Stomper's curriculum development. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Jazz Saxophone from the Chicago College of Performing Arts, a Master's degree from the University of New Orleans, and a recent Ed.M. from the Music Education program at Teachers College, Columbia University. In addition to his work in education, Tim has collaborated with notable artists such as Aretha Franklin and NEA Jazz Masters.
Zahria Sims
Zahria Sims is a highly skilled saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and expert educator from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A member of the Little Stomper faculty, Zahria is a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans with a degree in Music Industries. She founded The Zahria Sims Collective, an ensemble that blends jazz, funk, soul, and R&B, and has performed at major events and festivals. Zahria has opened up for renowned artists like Kenny Garrett and Arturo Sandaval and has been mentored by respected musicians like Wessell “Warmdaddy” Anderson and Michael Esneault. Zahria also shares her passion for music education as an assistant instructor at Birch Creek Performing Arts Center in Door County, Wisconsin. With her talent, expertise, and dedication to teaching, Zahria inspires and motivates students on and off the stage.
