Individual Artist Project Grant FY21

This project will satisfy current fans of Superior Siren within the community, and increase listeners within the community. A goal of mine as a musician is to use the music I create as a way to evoke compassion and connection with diverse audiences. This project will help share the music of Superior Siren, and will hopefully bring some joy and healing to listeners. In the midst of the pandemic, I have observed that music lovers long for ways to experience creativity. Virtual performances are an accessible and safe way for people to enjoy music. Additionally, live streamed shows allow artists to interact with listeners in real-time while performing, which can inspire a feeling of togetherness. Though virtual shows lack the same energy and atmosphere of in-person shows, I have found that virtual shows can have a greater outreach through connecting online. I want these sessions to be free and open to the public so that everyone in the community is able to tune in. Most virtual shows suggest attendees to buy a ticket or make a donation. I instead want to remove that concern during this difficult financial time and have the experience be about the music. My main goal of the work is to successfully host live streaming concerts called "Superior Siren Studio Sessions", that feature solo performances by Superior Siren (myself). I aim to procure visual and audio equipment to enhance these virtual events. Another goal is to sustain my creative endeavors, create ways to perform, and connect with listeners during the pandemic. I also aim to promote the new solo Superior Siren EP "Kill Your Darlings". The measurable outcomes are: the obtainment of the equipment listed in the budget, the execution of the equipment functions, the completion of ten performances as the "Superior Siren Studio Sessions", an increase in listeners, social engagement with the new EP "Kill Your Darlings", and an increase in EP CD and digital sales and streams. You should have confidence that I can execute this project, because I have a fervent determination to meet desired creative goals. I have successfully completed seven projects that were funded through grants from the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council. I have researched the necessary visual and audio equipment to use for online streaming concerts. I have learned that a successful virtual event takes much more complex tools than originally anticipated. I have had experience performing virtually, and believe these tools to be essential in producing a live event that is visually stimulating with good sound quality. The equipment I have selected has positive reviews for live streaming shows. Additionally, I have personal connections with audio engineers and videographers than can assist me with the initial set up and trouble-shooting. Finally, the compensation through this grant will allow me adequate time and energy to execute this project.I will measure the outcomes of the project in the following ways: by successfully obtaining the selected equipment, by analyzing my use of the equipment, by completing ten performances of the "Superior Siren Studio Sessions", by recording web analytics to analyze the growth in listeners and increase in engagement, and by recording CD sales and digital streams of the EP "Kill Your Darlings". All of these ways, and by stimulating my unique creativity, will show that the work was a success.