I am sure everyone reading this article has at one time watched the Grammy Awards. It is a peer-recognized award program that honors the industry’s highest achievers. To get to this pinnacle, there is work that must be put in. This is where Grammy U comes into action at Prairie View A&M University.
Grammy U provides an outlet for aspiring college professionals with the tools and opportunities necessary to start a career in music. Events throughout each semester allow students to touch on various facets of the industry, which include performing, business, technology, and the creative process.
This semester’s future rising stars include:
Nehemiah Nelson. He is a senior flute major who also plays mellophone in the Marching Storm. At the Grammy U presentation held on April 29, Nehemiah performed a Hip-Hop selection and a rhythm and blues song, both written by him. He enjoys the fact that the organization is open to the student body and allows their creative productions to serve as an introduction to the industry. His future plans are to be more involved in the organization and do what it takes to continue improving in this field.
John Ferrell, a percussionist, is interested in commercial music and, perhaps, composing for movies and games to get his sound recognized. His main interest is jazz and differing contrasts for movies and games. He said, “I create melodies but don’t seem interested in creating beats,” “beats” being short rhythmic motives. John is more interested in creating complete compositions, and he feels Grammy U is affording him the opportunity to grow in this area. He also feels this organization will allow members to see and experience some of the jobs in the industry, such as music mixing board procedures and techniques.
Rafael Salazar Mendez, a trumpet major from Dallas, was interested in the production aspect of music when joining Grammy U. Rafael is interested in what goes into making music, from creating lyrics to putting them to music. “I struggled with creating lyrics, and my classmates felt I was holding back.” When performing his creation, Rafael said, “I finally got that special feeling that comes when others can relate to my music.”
The students came up with lyrics and music to set the style for their created works. However, the music background allowed development to be created quicker than coming up with the lyrics that would develop the presented theme. They also worked on adding a chorus or hook section that the listener would readily identify. Once they attached the introduction and created the musical interlude, all the parts were ready to be put together for a complete composition for your listening pleasure.
So, when you see posters advertising the various offerings from PVAMU’s Department of Music and Theatre, please come and support us. Our performers want you to know them before they become famous and hit the Grammy stage.
Mark W. Phillips, Ph.D., is professor and head of the Brailsford College of Arts & Sciences Department of Music & Theatre at PVAMU.
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