“The work done by Mr. Walker-Loud (director of Big World Breaks) is in perfect alignment with our mission. He builds community through the arts, uses music to elevate and amplify the voices of marginalized people, and he honors the history and legacy of those that came before while helping his students create the future they want to live in. I have seen the way Mr. Walker-Loud fosters leadership in his students while holding them accountable to each other and to themselves. Working across generations with BWB’s programming takes that accountability to the next level, not pointing to problems within this group or that, but bringing all folks together to problem solve, to collaborate, and to create together. That’s just the way we need to address many of the issues that face us.”

– Aaron Counts
(Co-Director / Lead Engagement Artist: Creative Justice)

“Big World Breaks is simply an outstanding community partner. Aaron and his team are fully committed to the music and the culture, integrity in character and values, crystal clear communication, and the ability to connect creatively, professionally, and quickly with young people. Making music with Big World Breaks is just an absolute joy!”

– Daniel Pak
(Executive Director: Totem Star)

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Aaron (director of Big World Breaks) since 2012… He is without question one of the strongest teachers/teaching artists I’ve met because he makes such great relationships with kids, his content knowledge is second to none, and he is passionate about teaching all students in a very diverse environment of learners while meeting a variety of student needs. His work includes leveraging the arts and arts education while addressing institutional racism in our communities. He gives students a voice to share their experiences while being part of a team that helps them celebrate new common experiences as well. Aaron has a very professional, yet conversational style and really gets to know his students. He leads great discussions and has students excited to talk about music and history. He’s familiar and effective working with a diverse group of learners in a low-income neighborhood. He also brings a professional background of being a producer and musician into our classroom, which leads to a much deeper understanding of our local history and music told through the lens of somebody who has studied it and been a part of it as opposed to somebody who just read about it in a text.”

– Mike Kreiger
(Educator: Aki Kurose Middle School / Madison Middle School)

“Aaron (director of Big World Breaks) brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his teaching. He is a respected community leader with a commitment to equity and social justice. He approaches his teaching with the same level of responsibility and excellence he puts into his professional artistic work. His engagement with young people focuses on persistence, accountability, self-confidence and empowerment. He meets young people where they are at, and creates a safe container for them to gain new skills, collaborate and shine.”

– Tina LaPadula
(Arts Education Project Manager: Seattle Office of Arts & Culture)