Singer Robert McFletcher-Jones Visits Music School

World traveler Robert McFletcher-Jones has been performing internationally since he was 10 years old when he sang a solo with the Battle Creek Boychoir in Europe. He recently performed the role of Hud in the 50th anniversary concert of “Hair,” starring Tony nominee and American Idol Star Constantine Maroulis, and Remember Jones. He was featured in four different casts of Broadway’s “Cotton Club Musical After Midnight” Starring Tony nominee Brenda Braxton, Marva Hicks, and Sharon Wilkins on Norwegian Cruise Lines, while also having the privilege of premiering his own cabarets “Soul Music Experience” and "The Love Music Experience” around the world with Norwegian Cruise Lines and Celebrity Cruises.

Last month, McFletcher-Jones returned to his home-town of Battle Creek for a short break until he hits the road again in May to return as Education Director at Timber Lake Playhouse. While in the area, he is giving back to the community through school outreaches with Ars Voce, a program of The Music Center, and at The Journey of African American Music and Theatre, February 21 at 6:00 p.m. at the Binda Performing Arts Center on the campus of Kellogg Community College.

Executive Director of The Music Center, Susan Balbaugh, shares, “We are extremely excited to announce Robert will be available for a very limited time while he is in town for private voice lessons at our Community Music School. This is an incredible opportunity for area singers of any age and skill level to gain experience with a professional of this caliber. I have gotten to know Robert and can tell you he is one of the most positive and kind people I have met and will sure to add much fun to the experience.” McFletcher-Jones is available Thursday evenings, and Friday and Saturdays during the day, now through May for lessons. If you are interested, please call 269-963-1911, ext. 2586 for availability. Balbaugh adds, “Although there is a cost for private lessons, we also offer generous financial aid and have partnered with the Miller Foundation’s BCreative scholarship program to help defray the cost for eligible students.”

McFletcher-Jones states, “I am blessed to have a supportive family, “framily,” and community. Through hard work and incredible teachers who I am forever grateful to, including Dr. Min Jin, Tim Elliott, Seth Gardner, Carolyn (Washington) Ballard, Dr. Blanchard, Dr. Grantier, Dr. Wells, Justin Brown, Dale Schriemer, and Dr. Bruce Vantine, I have developed a solid healthy sound over various styles of music. As a consistent working artist, this is imperative. I want to share everything I’ve learned thus far, to help continue the legacy of excellence within our community.” He earned his master’s degree in higher dducation from Grand Valley State University. With over a four-octave range and excellent comedic timing, he has been praised by audiences for his rich baritone sound and charismatic presence on stage and is trained in opera, gospel, jazz, pop, soul and musical theatre. McFletcher-Jones adds, “Sheet music or not, I love to bring joy to an audience and tell stories through song. I’m so honored to be a part of the excellent Music Center team, and cannot wait to work with you! Come sing your heart out!”