McGovern students’ new band uses music for philanthropy
United by a shared passion for music and service, students at McGovern Medical School have formed The Devonshires, a band that blends creative expression with community impact by using live performances to support pediatric patients through music-based philanthropy.
Band members include Euan Zhang (MS2), Alexander Frumovitz (MS2), Caroline Keller (MS2, Baylor College of Medicine), Grace Giles (MS2), Khang Le (MS2), Hunter Martin (MS1), and Taylor Sweeney (MS2). The band is managed by Stephanie Davis.
“We are inspired and mentored by John Riggs, MD, former assistant dean of professionalism at McGovern Medical School, whose own background as a musician has shaped our mission,” the band said. “Many of us first learned about Dr. Riggs’ involvement in music during a McGovern Medical School town hall in our first year (MS1). Despite being retired, Dr. Riggs remains deeply involved as a mentor, providing musical insight, logistical guidance, and unwavering support.”
After noticing the depth of musical talent within the medical school, The Devonshires wanted to create something fun and creative that existed outside the academic setting while still giving back to the community. What began as a shared love for music quickly grew into a band with a purpose.
The Devonshires perform at a wide range of events, including medical school formals, school-sponsored gatherings, private house and holiday parties, and hospital volunteer performances. Each performance also serves as a fundraiser, with donations collected to support the band’s philanthropic partner, Purple Songs Can Fly, a nonprofit music therapy organization at Texas Children’s Hospital that empowers children with cancer to write, record, and produce their own original songs.
Building on their momentum, The Devonshires also founded Musicans United in Song and Impactful Care (MUSIC) Club at McGovern Medical School. MUSIC Club brings together students of all musical backgrounds, from professional and collegiate musicians to DJs, casual players, and music enthusiasts. In addition to fostering creativity, the club also serves as a philanthropic arm of the band’s musical efforts.
“We are grateful for the support of our faculty sponsors, Claire Hulsebosch, PhD, and Dr. Riggs, whose encouragement has helped both The Devonshires and MUSIC Club thrive,” the band said. “Together, we hope to continue combining music, medicine, and philanthropy, and using every performance as an opportunity to give back.”
Keep up with The Devonshires on Instagram at @thedevonshires, and book them for your next event by emailing [email protected].