'Voice' winner Jermaine Paul starting Monroe music school

Tuesday August 14, 2012 5:20 PM By Kirthana Ramisetti

Photo credit: NBC | Harriman's Jermaine Paul was named the winner of the second season of "The Voice." (May 8, 2012)

Jermaine Paul won “The Voice” this season, and now he wants to share the gift of music with others. The Harriman native is partnering with Viktor Prizgintas, director of the Allegro Youth Orchestra, to form a music school based in Monroe.

In a video press release, Paul lauded the Orange County-based orchestra. “I think it’s extremely important for kids in this day and age to kind of venture out," he said. "And Allegro definitely allows them to do that. I’m talking like rock, jazz, soul and gospel -- all different kinds [of genres].”

The Allegro Youth Orchestra, which has toured locally and internationally and even performed at the White House, has more than 60 YouTube videos available for view online. The group prides itself on performing a variety of styles and credits Paul for adding R&B and gospel to its repertoire after their musical collaboration this spring.

Prizgintas and Paul’s goal for their school is to “nurture and develop contemporary young artists and help them reach for their dreams.”

Paul has high praise for the director. “What he’s done here, singlehandedly in this town, you’re talking about bringing the community together," Paul said. "He’s teaching these kids. He’s in the business of being inspiring.”

Planning for the school is still in its early stages, perhaps because “The Voice” winner is currently working on his own dream: recording his first album, which is due out this fall. However, he did visit and perform with the Allegro Youth Orchestra in May. Check out their performance of Paul’s original song, “Eyes Like Brazil."

Tags: Harriman , Monroe , Jermaine Paul , Allegro Youth Orchestra , The Voice , music school