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Jeffree White owned and operated Washougal School of Music for five years, before he and wife, Kelli Rule, moved to Ajijic, Mexico earlier this year. His significant contributions to Washougal art include: donations of musical performances at the Washougal Senior Center and at Washougal Art Festivals, performing at local establishments with multiple bands, helping businesses promote and develop their music programs, hosting a recital and open jam session during Washougal Youth Arts Month, performing at the City of Washougal Pirates in the Plaza/Park events multiple years, being a festival sponsor and donor to WACA and performer at WACA house concerts, and being selected to serve as a member of the Washougal Art Commission.
Giving back to the community with art was important for White. “I believe that people need to be uplifted with inspiring creations, and shown that art and music is participatory, not just consumptive,” he explained. “This can motivate people to be active in their community and give them purpose.”
White’s work with Washougal School of Music did not just serve beginners, or kids; a large percentage of his students were adults at an intermediate level or just starting an instrument. “I had an 81-year-old student,” White remarked. “Music is a life-long journey, and the styles to be explored from history and around the world are practically limitless. It's also a healthy hobby to start up in later years.”
Teaching beginners is fun for White. “It is a new and exciting experience for students, and I get to participate in that joy,” he said. “I still teach several students in Washougal and Camas over Zoom. I miss in-person lessons because you can play together in real time; and obviously the sound quality in real life is better! It was mostly rewarding to be able to answer the need for individual music education in Washougal & Camas.”
White feels fortunate to have made the decision to move to Washougal. “At the time, the town had a real need for individual music instruction in the instruments and styles I offer, and that gave me the opportunity to serve the community, a most fulfilling endeavor, and a rewarding experience for all,” he said. “Washougal ended up being the perfect place for this chapter of my life.”
Currently White has joined the lively music scene in Ajijic and continues to play keyboards in a local jazz/pop band. He is working on his solo show, hosts rehearsals in his home music studio and has started playing weekly with a bluegrass musician, which may develop into a new incarnation of his band, Train River.
White was surprised and humbled by the recognition from WACA. “Being in my own bubble of a home-based business, I don't always see the impact I make in the community over the years.” Closing the studio did result in an outpouring of appreciation and gratitude that gave White an impression of the value of his contributions. “This honor truly means a lot!” he added. “The folks in WACA are exceptional humans whom I greatly admire. And I know there are many worthy
artists in the area!”
