On November 7, 2020, SOUNDSCAPE Vocal Jazz Ensemble led by Music Professor Michelle Hawkins, debuted new performance videos at the virtual Cuesta College Vocal Jazz Festival. Clinicians recognized Soundscape for their excellence, selecting their piece “Together Again” as one of only 5 performances to spotlight at the event showcase.
Since its inception in 1998, the festival has offered high-quality feedback and performance clinics. 2020 was no exception, as Soundscape performed in a masterclass format receiving comments and critique from clinicians that included a Grammy-nominated music professional, highly regarded music educators, and internationally known a cappella performers The Real Group. The Real Group is considered one of the leading forces in the world of vocal music.
“So beautiful….so expressive….so musical….so artistic…so on time – inspiring, absolutely stunning”, were just a few of the judge’s accolades about Soundscape.
Soundscape’s upbeat “Together Again” shared at the festival showcase event embodies their joy in being and performing together. The fifteen-member audition selected group, also shared video performances highlighting their 2020 remote learning experience. The more reflective “Nearness of You” and “Higher Ground” were creatively crafted from beginning to end as true artifacts of their time. Professor Hawkins encouraged members to learn new skill sets, “embrace the medium and be as creative as possible”, and investigate “what we get to do in the current environment that we couldn’t do otherwise”.
In prior years Soundscape performed at festivals and competitions in such diverse locations as Columbia College, University of Nevada at Reno, Cabrillo College, and the Apollo Theater and Carnegie Hall in New York City. This year the group took on the challenge to create a compelling product from home. We believe the results are engaging and reflect students thinking of creative arts in new ways. Check them out for yourself!
“Higher Ground” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-Isc-yHvOw&feature=emb_logo
“Nearness of You” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XxNHl1HPOy0&feature=emb_logo
“Together Again” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ry4d6GFYs4E
Spring 2020/Soundscape at Home:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XEyxfWOwZY
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4CDQns3FW0
Article by Chris Woo
