Valerie was my teacher when I was 18 years old. She was a supportive and inspirational teacher. She gave me confidence to explore my creativity and connect with the heart of the sound. Since I didn't read music, and she didn't stress reading we were a great match. I became her assistant at the Usdan School of Arts on Long Island and it was a great honor and pleasure. One day her friend Dr. Billy Taylor and drummer Graddy Tate came to the camp to play. I got to jam with Dr. Taylor. Improvisational music is still very important to me and I will always thank Valerie for her easy and supportive teaching. Renard Cohen
I learned so much from being in your jazz improvisation class at MSM. It is one of the few things I enjoyed in that school. Finally with you, I felt like I had a teacher who really cared about me. God bless you Valerie Capers💖🎹🎶.