Marcellla Monk-Flake, my cousin, launched a fundraiser against cancer at Yale University on May 7th, 2011. It was attended by locals, civic entities, music professionals, students and clergy. The headline was T.S. MONK. He was amazing and entertaining. The T.S. Monk Sextet was preceded by an ensemble comprised of High School students who attend a jazz program in New Haven. They were phenomenal.
Now, how does this fit into this blog?...
When I go out to enjoy music, I ask myself "how does this tune make me feel". If I'm tapping my feet already, I don't even have to ask. I might feel like dancing or swaying. If there's no reaction, something is not right. I look for the reason I'm feeling what I'm feeling. Do I want my music to feel like that? How can I get that reaction to my music (if it's not already there).
This way, I find new favorite artists and genres. I wholeheartedly advocate going out to listen to live music. You meet other musicians, you get inspired to play and write . . . and most of all, practice! Some local students from, COOPERATIVE HIGH SCHOOL, played with T.S. Monk at the fund raiser and RAISED THE ROOF!
Now, how does this fit into this blog?...
When I go out to enjoy music, I ask myself "how does this tune make me feel". If I'm tapping my feet already, I don't even have to ask. I might feel like dancing or swaying. If there's no reaction, something is not right. I look for the reason I'm feeling what I'm feeling. Do I want my music to feel like that? How can I get that reaction to my music (if it's not already there).
This way, I find new favorite artists and genres. I wholeheartedly advocate going out to listen to live music. You meet other musicians, you get inspired to play and write . . . and most of all, practice! Some local students from, COOPERATIVE HIGH SCHOOL, played with T.S. Monk at the fund raiser and RAISED THE ROOF!
Here, they are playing IN WALKS BUD. Taking solos and trading 4's.
They were absolutely amazing! They opened and closed the evening.
This was an important event for me to attend. The Civic Community cited T.S. Monk for his contribution to the world of jazz from the high administration of Yale University to the Mayor of Connecticut. Hearing the young, new jazz artists who are coming up now makes it clear that Connecticut is doing it's part to make sure jazz stays alive and thrives. Youth everywhere should be inspired and you guys at COOPERATIVE H.S. should be proud of yourselves!
Chime in! Comment and pat yourselves on the back.
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