DAP 2011 Day #4 - Push the Limits

Our day started with circuit training with Grace - sweating and pushing all the way through. Although they always end up sweaty and in pain, they are making the effort to condition themselves everyday.

Next, they had their daily session with JJ to discuss techniques and tricks for performances.  He got them performing and breaking down each others' performances for critical analysis.  Confidence and connectivity were the lessons learned today.

As food has become the running issue, we sought out a soul food restaurant and there was no fast food today - yay!

Our afternoon session was an exciting treat as we were able to have the students sit down and chat with Mr. Tommy Ford, actor/producer/director/author of "Martin" fame!  He was most gracious with his time and spent over an hour speaking with the students.  He discussed their passions, their goals and gave them insight into the process of success.  We are so very honoured and blessed to have had him give of his time - Blessings to you Tommy! (photo is attached - video is coming!!)

We continued working on the group song/project into the late afternoon until we headed to EnKore Recording Studio to "sit in" on a session.  We were allowed to watch Lloyd Shepard - a Pop Soul duo record their newest track.  Due to Chad's production background, he was allowed to assist the engineer.  Additionally, the ladies returned to the house to continue working on the group song - Chad remained at the studio, working with the staff of Enkore until after 11pm.  Push the limits and see what happens . . .
Stay tuned.

PLM

DAP 2011 - Day #3 - Blood, Sweat and Tears

DAP Day #3 - Sweat, Blood and Tears

Day 3 began at 8:30am, leaving the house to get the day started.  We arrived at Crea8tiv Spaces to start our day with conditioning with Grace Page, our fitness instructor.  After the workout, everybody was hurt and tired - we all need "up" our fitness regiment.

Next, JJ had his initial session with the artists, highlighting their goals and aspirations as artists.  He pushed to expose their wants and desires, in order to get them to analyze their talents and what they want to accomplish.

After lunch, we experienced choreography with dance coach Jerod Times, focusing on performance techniques and stage positioning.  At the same time, Olivia had a private session with Jazz pianist, Al Smith.

With everyone together, we attended a rehearsal with I.S. band, ATL.  They provided the students will valuable information about the work it takes to prepare for a performance.  With the assistance of Miguel Gaetan on drums and Kerry Davis on keys, Jason dazzled the student artists with his melodious skills and intensity.

Dinner at Red Lobster and then back to Crea8tiv Spaces to brainstorm and create song ideas and possible tracks.  With a bit of pushing and encouragement, they worked feverishly until we called it a night at 10:00pm. As usual, the work continues at the house, as they want to produce the best . .  Stay tuned.

PLM

Video clip - Chad at Cafe 290 - Sunday, July 10, 2011

Video clip - - Amber at Cafe 290 (Sunday, July 10, 2011)

Day #2 - A little Praise, then a little Play . . .

Day #2 of the DAP 2011 program began with worship with the family of Fellowship of Love Church in Fayetteville, GA.  Pastor BaSean Jackson and his church welcomed us with open arms and warm hugs.

After church, the students did a little shopping - in total, about 2 to 3 hours worth.  Throw in a little bite to eat for lunch, they were allowed to get back to the house to rest up for the evening's activities.

At 9 pm, they entered Cafe 290, Atlanta's spot for Jazz.  As guest of well-known Jazz Saxophonist Gary Harris, they were given the VIP treatment and provided table seating for the performance.  Our students were invited to participate in the Open Mic portion of the evening, and as a result, provided two memorial performances - - Congrats to Amber and Chad for providing two excellent performances which people will be talking about for awhile!  Additionally, Justice and Olivia were waiting in the wings for their chance; however, due to time and other factors, we will have to wait just a little more for their Cafe 290 debuts.  They returned to the house at approximately 2:15 am.

Check back in the morning for a little snippet of Amber performing Chaka Khan and Chad performing his original song.  DAP 2011 in full swing!

PLM

DAP 2011 Day#1 - Just before we leave . . . initial thoughts

Our students provided a little insight into their initial thoughts as the trip began.

"Excited, excited, excited."
"Excited and tired."
"Hungry"
"My momma took my phone."

After a few hiccups, we boarded the plane and were off to Atlanta, GA.  Our arrival was swift and before you knew it, we were out on the highway on our way to our "temporary" home for the week.  Dinner was held at a local Ruby Tuesday and a quiet night in the house ended the first day of the program.  Rest is needed now as the "real" work lies ahead . . . stay tuned.

Tomorrow - THE BIG DAY!

Hello bloggers and friends:

Tomorrow is the big day!  Tomorrow, our 4 artists will have the opportunity to explore their talents and experience the music industry like never before!

They are all very excited and we will provide the sounds, images and their thoughts along the way!

Stay tuned and follow their amazing journey.

PLM