I cannot believe that I haven't posted anything since February. Obviously, my goal to write daily fell apart this last semester, but it looks like I'll have more time to write this summer.
This is it: my final semester at Berklee College of Music. As a result of many semesters of focus and determination, I'll have earned my bachelors degree in 3 years. It's been a rocky path, but I wouldn't trade my years in Boston for anything.
Last semester was a big transition (and unusually busy). The reality of "how can I make a living from this after graduation?" finally set in and I quickly approached all my course work and classes with a new perspective. I've found that the Professional Music degree has been a really good thing for me because my last semester was essentially all electives. I'll be able to focus on classes that I believe will really help build up my toolbox in a few short months.
In August, I'll be moving back to Orlando, FL and hope to continue working with music in any capacity that is afforded to me there.
Here are some highlights from the spring semester:
1) Private instruction with Kurt Elling in New York City. This was such a surreal and informative experience. Kurt provided a lot of helpful insight into the business of a music career and also vocal technique and improvisation.
2) Audition for a Tokyo Disney production this fall in New York City. I didn't receive a call-back, but I learned a ton from the experience. Over 200 people auditioned for only 5 or 6 openings.
3) Helped record vocals on several Music Production & Engineering and Contemporary Writing & Production projects at school.
4) I found out that I will be leading a recital this July at Berklee. The theme will be: A Tribute to Frank Sinatra. I'll be posting more about this as the date gets closer.
5) I became really interested in aspects of arranging, especially for big bands. Before I left Berklee, I wanted to be able to write charts for myself and now I can.
6) Performed with the Video Game Music Choir at Trinity Church in Copley Square. This brought back great memories of the incredible score for "Zelda: The Ocarina of Time".
7) Enrolled in and continuing dance lessons.
8) Helped two students by singing on their projects in the "Techniques for Accompanying Vocalists" course in the Guitar Department.
9) Led a piano trio in the studio to record demo tracks for my Professional Music Final Project degree requirement.
10) Walked in the Commencement Ceremony last week and shook hands with honorary doctorate recipients: Paco de Lucia, Gamble & Huff, Angelique Kidjo, and Kenny Barron. Very humbling.
As always, stay posted for more updates soon. Hopefully, that won't mean four more months.
With kind regards,
Dan
