In our first virtual school assembly of the school year, we experienced the cello hip-hop electroacoustic music of internationally traveled artist Jordan Hamilton coming to us live from his studio in Michigan. Mr. Hamilton shared his influence from Jackson Browne to Yo-Yo Ma and Bach to Chicago Hip-Hip. Hamilton’s original work was shared as well as the varied processes of song creations. In describing the lyrics he expressed life experiences with dreams and taking chances. Using his drum machine he demonstrated how he develops a sound, adds a beat, and loops the music to create a beat. His love for the cello is the result of a teacher playing it for him in his third grade class. He identified his love for cello as a flashlight beacon showing where his cello could take him in life. 

Our curious learners asked if, as a professional musician, he gets nervous playing especially when performing original work. Mr. Hamilton shared the connection of excitement with nervousness as well as the three sided triangle breathing he uses to focus his energy saying that he suggests being in the moment and enjoying what you are doing. His final advice to learners was “If you have something you think you want to do, reach out and share it with friends, family members or teachers.” Your idea may be better than you think!