Popup Soundcheck and Performance
In the latest installment of our podcast series, titled "Chatmosa Session - Popup Soundcheck and Performance," host Dan, a multifaceted composer, performer, and educator at the David Z Foundation, shared an incredibly insightful and experimental session that blended music, technology, and pedagogy. This engaging episode served not only as a soundcheck for Dan's upcoming live performance but also as a platform for discussing the evolving landscape of the creator economy and the importance of digital presence in today's artistic communities.
Dan opened the session with a heartfelt introduction, reflecting on his journey as an artist and his desire to step into the limelight after years of working behind the scenes. "I’ve been a performer pretty much my whole life, but always just kind of in the background," he admitted, emphasizing his commitment to sharing his artistic voice more prominently this year.
A major focal point of this session was the preparation for his performance of "Once Upon Another Time" by Sara Bareilles, which features acapella elements laid against a high drone. Dan explained the importance of selecting the right key for singers, saying, "As singers, we are unique instruments we carry around with us all the time." He stressed the necessity of matching the music to one’s vocal range, describing the process in a way that was both informative and relatable.
Throughout the session, Dan addressed several themes crucial to modern music education, particularly within the context of the digital world. He spoke about "digital citizenship," urging the audience to recognize and honor the online presence of today’s youth as part of their identity: “What does that look like when we are integrating this? Digital citizenship has been a huge push...” This nod to the realities of digital life reflects Dan's understanding of the intersection between technology and personal expression—an idea he continues to explore in his work with students and the community.
As the session progressed, Dan dove into a practical demonstration using BandLab, a web-based digital audio workstation. He articulated his intentions to make the platform accessible for all, underscoring his educational mission for the David Z Foundation. "I want this show to always be beginner-friendly, but also a launchpad for advanced technique and advanced practice," he said, showcasing his dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for learners at all levels.
Dan navigated the functionalities of BandLab in real-time, and despite some initial stumbling, he maintained a light-hearted and informal tone that made the technical aspects approachable. He remarked, "I’m learning in public,” capturing the essence of the session as both a teaching moment and a personal exploration.
Key takeaways from the session included insights into vocal arrangement using harmonizers and a nuanced understanding of creating vocal layers. He made practical suggestions on how to set up tracks effectively while encouraging participants to familiarize themselves with the platform's features. His advice to simply explore and experiment was encapsulated in the quote, "This is how we learn. This is how we do it."
As the session drew to a close, Dan's enthusiasm was palpable, inspiring listeners to engage with their own creative processes. He encouraged the audience to consider how they might “keep from singing,” effectively inviting reflection on their personal artistic journeys.
Listeners were reminded of the community aspect of the project through the promotion of Dan's various online spaces where aspiring artists can connect and share experiences. "I would encourage you... join the how can I keep from singing community," he said, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and support in the creative world.
In closing, this Chatmosa session transcended a mere soundcheck; it was a celebration of creativity, technology, and the shared human experience of making music. Dan’s passion and commitment to fostering artistic growth both personally and collectively left audiences eager for the next installment of this innovative series. As he aptly summarized, “Go make a beautiful noise and ask yourself... how can I keep from singing?”
This session exemplified the vibrant intersection of music education and digital innovation, promising to leave a lasting impact on all who tuned in. Don’t miss the next opportunity to be part of this exciting journey!