Hey guys, Rob here with some more PS22 reflections.
Of all the amazing moments that we shared with the kids, my personal favorite collaboration of the day has yet to have been mentioned! Dave talked about how the first thing we got to do was to go “caroling” around the school, singing for classrooms and teachers. Just as we were wrapping up the tour, we came across a group of kids walking to class with a girl who Mr. B knew. I don’t know if she was in the chorus (I think she was actually a third grader), but at Mr. B’s request (and with a camera ready to capture the fun) she launched into an absolutely amazing pop rendition of jingle bells. We listened for a verse and then spontaneously joined in with a full four part backup.
To me the experience summed up everything that was so special about the day. First and foremost I was very impressed that this young woman who couldn’t have been much older than 10 had the confidence to bust out a song on camera in front of her whole class and 18 strangers. When I was 10 I don’t think I would have had the guts to *talk* to a group of college guys, let alone make music with them (and teach them a thing or two about music in the process). It was a real testament to the positive, encouraging environment that’s such an important part of Mr. B’s teaching. The good vibes are everywhere.
The chorus itself was indescribably cool. I’m sure you’ll hear more from other guys, but I mean it when I say that their rendition of Beyonce’s “Halo” was one of the most powerful performances I’ve ever seen. The depth of emotion that the kids were able to communicate with their faces and voices went well beyond their years and touched me in a way I’ve never experienced. Truly amazing.
As someone who is interested in getting into the business of music, working with these young people gave me some much needed perspective. So much of the industry is focused on image, glamour, money, and fame. Here in the midst of the flashing lights are these kids. They’ve had the opportunity to meet some of the biggest names in the business (we were told by one student that Lady Gaga smells like a “fruit medley”), yet as Dave mentioned in his post they still list performing for the elderly and the town council as some of their most exciting moments.
There is no ego in what they do, just joy. It’s the joy of making music as a way to communicate things that go beyond words. It’s the joy of creating friendships and a community based on making something beautiful together as a group. For one afternoon we had the privilege of being welcomed into that community, and we walked away with a whole new way of thinking about who we are and the music we make.
To PS22 and Mr. B - Thank you! I think I speak for all of us when I say we learned lessons from you that years of school could never convey. I wish you guys many more years of fun and success. As you get older, never be afraid to keep expressing yourself through song. You guys have an incredible gift, and you never know who’s life you might change! Hope to see you again soon!
-R
