Budget cuts. Fired teachers. Program money redistribution. Education received a hard blow this year, but one school in OK, one family and one student in Oklahoma, has much about which to be proud.
Greyson Michael Chance.
This sixth grade boy has spotlighted recently for his vocal and piano performance at his Middle School's recital. Performing Lady Gaga's "Paparazzi", Chance wow'd the audience with an original score and a heartfelt twist on the singer's melody. He may only be in 6th grade, but this talented young man holds quite the promising future if he continues to hone and pursue this avenue as a career. The sad thing is, it takes something like a web sensation, a possible performance on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, and a quick internet "buzz" to spark an interest in musical talent.
In fact, this is not the only song this young boy has performed. On his You Tube Channel you can see two of his other songs. He wrote lyrics and score to both, and they are not any old "Top 20s" nonsense pop-song either. They are deep, intense, lyrically-moving songs. The sad truth of today is that we would rather our students succeed on the field than give them a chance to shine on stage . . . and yet we spend hours pouring over shows like American Idol and Glee that put emphasis and praise on musical talent. But I guess these venues are only for students who can afford private lessons at home or can find the means to be self taught. Why bother supporting in-school programs that foster these children's creative strength and talent when we would rather have a football or diving team to support? Silly me, musical talent is only something to praise once you have some...not supported in the process of "until you have some" / "while you learn". Maybe we need a few more Greyson Michael Chances to remind us of awe and power these talents bring to society. Maybe then they'll actually be supported, because I would certainly hate to live in a music-less society. Until then, Greyson, you have my full support. Keep up the hard work! You're doing an amazing job.
He's talented. I wonder how long he practices. Parents don't want kids pursuing the stage b/c its risky. You could be rich and famous or your could be dead broke.
ReplyDeleteI think the music industry is turning fake. Why is it that on the radio I always hear crappy singers and people who think they've got talent when real muscians are hidden. I hate it. Just because you look good doesn't mean you can sing.
Amen to the last statement. Singers have always been noted for their sex appeal (Elvis, Frank Sinatra, even Rosemary Clooney), but they at least had equally amazing voices. Technology plays such an integral role in modifying voices and perfecting pitch, you really don't need ultimate talent anymore to be famous (think Britney Spears). Don't get me wrong, it's still entertainment and personal preference of music is at the discretion of the listener, but it is definitely a changing industry. The sad part about Greyson is you probably will never hear about how much he practices. That's not what interests people. They don't want to know or face the work; they just want to see and have the success.
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