Philadelphia - GRAMMY U Master Classes RECAP
Photo: Kazia Nowacki
Excited GRAMMY U members took a break from their end of semester studies to gather at Annenberg Hall at Temple University on Saturday, April 21st with some of the best musicians in the Philadelphia area for GRAMMY U: The Master Classes.
The event kicked off with a candid talk by Jim Thorpe of The Legendary Dobbs and the Dewey Beach Music Conference. He discussed touring, booking, and promoting and what to do and what not to do. “I love putting on shows,” he said to students as he let them in on what he looks for when booking his own shows. “I want talent first,” Jim says, as opposed to booking acts solely based on the draw that they have. He also encouraged students to trade shows with out of town bands, do the ground work to get people out, and not to overbook themselves.
After the discussion, students broke out into small music workshops. Jean Baylor, formerly one-half of the duo Zhané and a solo artist in her own right, led the vocal workshop in some practice exercises and techniques. The workshop segued into a frank discussion about being a vocalist in the music industry. Ben O’Neill, who has played guitar for Kanye West and Common (among others), led the guitar group that left the students eager to go home and put their new chops to use. Marcus Baylor, formally of The Yellowjackets and embarking on new solo work, gave an intimate drum workshop that highlighted important techniques to master the drum kit. Lastly, Gerald Veasley, contemporary jazz bassist who has played with the likes of Grover Washington, Jr., tackled topics like challenging key signatures for the bass workshop.
Everyone made their way to the atrium to enjoy some networking and a delicious taco bar. Everyone left the event having made a new, lasting connection.
The Philadelphia Chapter would like to thank Temple University for allowing us to host our event on its campus, and for all of the instructors and speakers who donated their time to make this occasion a successful one!