Fabien Relph

Founder & Piano Coach

Having provided instrumental work for such acts as “Mr. Cheeks,” Albert Jamison and GMWA, and various other artists, UpwardSounds visionary Fabien Relph is no stranger to the New York City music scene. In fact, he practically was born into it taking on various piano playing roles as a young teen. Growing up in Jamaica, Queens, Relph was first introduced to the piano at small Pentecostal church where his mom had been attending. It was here where Relph began to recognize a connection between music and the spiritual. He recalls many a Sunday where people would enter church weary and downtrodden but leave uplifted and encouraged. Recognizing the power of a supportive environment accompanied by “powerful” music, Relph conceived this notion of “Upward Sounds.” He began to use this term over the years to describe what a church organ sounds like during intense moments of praise and worship. Relph believes that these “upward sounds” should be accessible outside the church. Through UpwardSounds music resources Relph proposes that music should be able to provide people with healing and an improved sense of self-worth. “Good music should bless people just like church…not just at church.”

Jarena Brown

Vocal Coach

Jarena Brown-Jenkins is a Vocal Coach with eight years of experience of training students on how to sing many genres of music. Some of those genres include jazz, gospel, soul, and r&b.

Her music education was grounded at a young age with receiving private lessons and then furthering her knowledge with earning a Music degree from Lincoln University. Sarah Vaughn once said. “I am not a special person. I am a regular person who does special things. This quote is her philosophy as a vocal instructor. Her goal for each lesson is to focus on students vocal and ear strength and then enhance them. Jarena Brown-Jenkins is also a professional event singer who has over 20 years of experience with a live band and music.

Eyon Johnson

Director of Operations & Drummer Coach

Having over twenty years of experience, Eyon has distinguished himself with an undeniable talent, coupled with, hard work and determination. Eyon can clearly be distinguished and named among the drumming elite. His creative genius has translated his musicianship across genres. As a result, Eyon has led the music department of various church ministries in the tri-state area and served as the featured drummer on various recordings for local choirs and ensembles. While always remaining faithful to his beginnings, Eyon has expanded his musical flair by partaking in various studio sessions, live performances, TV appearances and recordings. Eyon has played for some of today’s most notable Christian recording artists. His resume names Stellar nominated James Hall Worship and Praise, Grammy-award winner Yolanda Adams and a plethora of others. As he grew older, so did Eyon’s development as a musician. His ability to adapt to all musical styles afforded him the opportunity to perform and tour as the drummer for R&B Grammy-award winner Chrisette Michele. Eyon’s excellent work ethic, attention to detail and professionalism allowed him to also become the musical director and later road manager for Chrisette Michele.