PS22 Chorus

I don't know why I hadn't heard of these kids before. Apparently they're quite the sensation- and for good reason. The PS22 chorus has been performing with a number of celebrity musicians who discovered the group through online videos. They will be performing at the Oscars this year.

Yes! I would love to see more school choirs like this! Singing in choir helps raise self confidence, encourages teamwork, assists in developing a musical ear, teaches self-discipline, and gives a sense of achievement. But more important than all that: it's fun! These kids are having a blast! The director  Gregg Breinberg, seems encouraging and just plain fun. 

Another exciting discovery of music education at its best! 

Mosaic

Okay, the Promotional video is pretty cheesy. Please ignore the overly dramatic voice over. This is just a basic overview of the amazing group, Mosaic, that I saw perform live last night. These guys make up one of the many professional a cappella groups out there today. They have a fresh and accessible approach to a cappella performance. They took some of the most basic pop songs and turned them into mind-bending arrangements that make me proud to be a musician. All of these guys are amazingly talented, and they are true entertainers (but I guess if you come from Las Vegas, it kinda comes naturally).

Here is a clip from a live performance of "Lean on Me." Don't expect the typical version you remember from summer camp.

They did an amazing version of "Closer" by Ne-Yo last night, but I haven't been able to find a video of it online. Hopefully there will be something up soon.

The encore last night was a longer version of this song. The audience literally jumped out of their seats and started dancing in the front. I don't know how many a cappella concerts you've been to, but that is not a regular occurrence!

Larynx Transplant

This is a very exciting event in the voice world.  A Northern California woman had the world's second Laryngeal Transplant. The Larynx (otherwise known as the "voice box") is a very delicate and dynamic part of the vocal anatomy. It is crucial for phonation (basically: making sound) and for years this woman lived without the gift of speech. It is very humbling to reflect on my life after hearing her story.

http://www.nbcbayarea.com/news/health/Transplant_Gives_Woman_Voice_Back_Bay_Area-114325209.html

I couldn't find this on YouTube, but I've provided the above link for the news clip.

Quiet of my Heart

A great sound from a lovely person. Last time I checked, Kristen was making her mark at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I'm excited for her and the music she's making. 

What are you Waiting for?

I stumbled across this old video from high school. You can't see me because I'm one of the singers in the band. Anyways, the energy and excitement of all of these soon-to-be-graduates brought a smile to my face. I love the fact that everyone knows the song practically by heart -down to each little ornament. They're all singing their hearts out and loving life. Not a bad moment.  

Zero to Hero

So, I definitely saw this film with a birthday party on opening day in the theaters. The Muses have always been heros of mine. If they ever make a stage version of this Disney movie, I would love to audition. (Though, I probably look more like a Meg)

First Post

Alright, here's the first post:

I decided to give this blog thing a try. I have no idea if anyone will read it, though my sister has assured me that I will have at least one follower. Hopefully this will be a fun way to talk about different things that interest me- mainly in the singing world. We'll see how it goes!