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Hook and Harmony

Music Mentorship in Denver

2026 Hook&Harmony Showcase

Our Mission

The Hook and Harmony Songwriting Program is designed to spark creativity, promote self-discovery, and amplify student voices within our school and musical communities.

Our Story

Hook and Harmony

A new program is striking a chord across four Denver schools this winter. The Hook and Harmony Songwriting Program is bringing together eighteen students from Swigert, Polaris, Denver School of the Arts, and George Washington High School for a four-week, student-led, and musician supported, songwriting journey, from blank page to big stage.

Meet Our Mentors

January 2026 Singer Songwriter's Showcase mentors

Singer/Songwriter

Paul Hoffman

Paul Hoffman is the mandolin player and main writer/singer for the band Greensky Bluegrass. The band has earned critical acclaim from Billboard, NPR, and Rolling Stone who hailed them as “representing a genre for a whole new generation.” Greensky recently played their 20th Red Rocks show on September 13th and will be celebrating 25 years as a band on October 31st in the place of origin, Kalamazoo, Michigan.

“I am a touring musician that has been a member of the band Greensky Bluegrass for 25 years. I live in Golden, CO, and my daughter is a student with Jeffco Public Schools. My wife and I have volunteered at her school and found it to be very fulfilling. It has become increasingly important to me to participate in as much outreach with schools as I am able to and have a positive impact in the lives of the students and teachers whom I value dearly and adore. Last year I did songwriting sessions with Sarah and Robin at each of their schools and it was clear that the students were eager to participate. It seemed being able to intersect with these students over a few weeks would be impactful so we are giving it a shot!”

Singer/Songwriter

Travis McNamara

Travis McNamara, part of Trout Steak Revival, a band that was known for its strong musicianship and ability to put light and beauty into the world with its music, is a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and inspiring lyricist. He recently produced a solo album where he plays over 15 instruments, entitled Moon Calendar, that blends earthy, ethereal sounds with thought provoking yet grounding lyrics.

“I know how important music programs were for me growing up. I love the idea of getting to witness and encourage the creativity of these young writers, and to hear what is on their minds. I am honored to be a part of this.”

Founders

The GT Educators behind the project

Program Coordinator

Robin Bresnahan

“Now that all of the pieces are in place I’m most intrigued to see what the final showcase brings. At this point, I truly have no idea what to expect — and that’s what makes it so exciting. The program will unfold organically over four weeks, shaped by the creativity, talents, and collaboration of our students and musicians. These students are passionate about songwriting and music; many sing, play multiple instruments, and bring their own unique voices to the process. One DSA student has been producing an album for the past year, and a GW student, who plays mandolin, has been learning Greensky Bluegrass songs. Add Paul Hoffman and Travis McNamara into the mix, two remarkable musicians with a genuine interest in mentoring young artists, and suddenly it feels like the sky is the limit. I’m deeply grateful to be part of something so inspiring and full of possibility.”

Lead Educator

Sarah Holdeman

“What excites me about this program is that the professional musicians are interested in what we are doing in schools and willing to spend their personal time bringing real world skills and experience to these students, lifting our entire community.”

Sarah Holdeman has been teaching for 31 years. She loves live music.

Upcoming Concert

See us in Action

Latest News

Our Vision

The Hook and Harmony Program elevates creative process and self-expression, harnessing the power of music to bring light, beauty, and much-needed positivity into the world. Through this work, we aim to build confidence, support mental health, and foster community—connecting classrooms with Denver’s vibrant creative scene.

OUR SPONSORS