About Us
About US
We strive to make music education available to all students regardless of their socioeconomic background, and it should reflect the cultures of the students we serve.
Educational Arts Society, Inc.
The “Create a Smile with Music Project” seeks to create an atmosphere where students examine who they are, where they choose to go in the future and how they will get there, through self-analysis, determination, courage and inner growth, coupled with a chosen musical skill-set that will provide a pathway to future career opportunities and positive societal values.
The Project is designed to overcome low self-esteem, lack of self-discipline and accountability, a void in public school music education and the inability to have a one-stop shop for music development in the performing arts. These classes are available to underprivileged children who can receive FREE instruments from EAS through our scholarship program.
Staff & Board Members
Duane Parham
Founder/CEO
Duane Parham is Detroit’s most beloved jazz artist. A native of Detroit, Michigan, Mr. Parham has a 50-year career marked by innovation and versatility in jazz, R&B, and gospel music. His seamless blending of musical styles has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Beyond his stage performances, Parham’s civic contributions, including mentoring aspiring musicians and promoting music education, demonstrate his commitment to enriching communities. As CEO and founder of Educational Arts Society, his mission is to give back to the community that has provided him with a platform to perform and inspire young and old toward jazz and gospel music. Through EAS, Mr. Parham continues to inspire future generations of artists while leaving a lasting impact on the world of music.
Dr. Mamie Smith
Chief Operating Officer
Dr. Mamie Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Educational Arts Society, brings a wealth of expertise as a classical musician, a vocal music teacher, an author, a talk show host, an astute businesswoman, and motivational speaker. Her profound insights, shared through various media outlets and publications, uplift and guide listeners worldwide. With a background in business ownership and extensive experience in broadcasting, Dr. Smith’s leadership enriches the organization’s mission to empower communities through arts and education.
Shabaura Perryman, MPH President
Shabaura Perryman, MPH, nominated as board President in 2024, a Detroit native and public health leader, has over 25 years of impactful experience in health advocacy and policy development with the nonprofit and private sectors. A former dancer with Detroit’s Motown Artist, Kim Weston’s Festival of the Performing Arts, Perryman’s journey from arts to public health underscores her commitment to community well-being. With a blend of administrative prowess and strategic business acumen, she excels in driving positive change, ensuring access to treatment, and advancing health equity. Perryman’s dedication to improving lives, coupled with her passion for the arts, makes her a valuable asset in any endeavor aimed at empowering underprivileged communities.
Garret Ziehlsdorf
Vice President
Garret Ziehlsdorf brings invaluable expertise in business management and relationship-building to the Educational Arts Society. With over 45 years of experience, particularly in merchandise buying, he has demonstrated remarkable dedication and advancement within the industry. Garret’s commitment to community service, notably through fundraising for organizations like the Muscular Dystrophy Association and Special Olympics, reflects his altruistic nature. As a board member, he is passionate about leveraging music to foster self-esteem, ambition, and spiritual growth in children.
Carl "Butch" Small
Vice President
Carl “Butch” Small, a master percussionist and entertainment industry veteran, boasts over 40 years of experience. As co-founder of multiple Detroit-based music companies since 1986, including World One Records Inc. and GenCar Productions Inc., his influence spans globally. Small’s tenure as an executive at Death Row Records and music director for nationally syndicated TV shows underscores his profound impact. His musical prowess, collaborating with legends from Aretha Franklin to Eminem, reflects his unparalleled expertise and widespread acclaim. Additionally, Small’s contributions extend to booking international performances and sales exceeding $50 million, solidifying his status as a luminary in the field. Carl Small has been a fixture at Educational Arts Society since its inception.
Janice Slappy
Former President
In remembrance of the late Janice Slappy, our former President, whose expertise and leadership greatly enriched the Educational Arts Society’s mission.
Click here to learn more about Janice Slappy and her contribution to Educational Arts Society.