Artist Access Grant

My conception of this project is to record an album of original music, then create physical copies of the album in the form of CD's and vinyl records. These copies will include original artwork by painter and wood-block expert Jeanine Scheffert. I have been working with NeonBrown Studios in Crystal, MN. I am scheduled for several days of recording over the next three months. I am confident that after these sessions, I will be completely done or very nearly done with the recording process. See my planned timetable under the "Ability" section. Finally, I will organize a series of "album release events" at venues where I have previously performed and market this show as a "Album Release Show." For example, the Lyric Center for the Arts in Virginia, MN, is a room dedicated to listening audiences. I have already played there and I am in communication with the executive director, Paul Gregerson, in regards to future performances. If I am able to complete the recording process, including most of the mixing and mastering, by May 15 of this year, I will have been successful. I am confident I will do this. I have 20 hours of studio time booked over several days in April, 2023. These upcoming recording sessions should allow me to finish the recording process. If I am able to complete the formatting of the booklet that will accompany the CD's by August 1 of this year, I will have been successful. I have no doubt that I will do this. I am already in communication with Copycats Media in Minneapolis, in regards to formatting and printing options. Placing the order for the physical copies will be a significant indicator of success. Once this order is placed, it means all of the hard work is done. The only thing to do after this is wait for the physical copies to be delivered, and book the album release events. Ultimately, I will know I have been successful if I am able to secure better performance opportunities moving forward. I believe in these songs, and I am thrilled that so many talented Minnesota musicians have helped me record them. The ability to sell an album that not only contains great music but is also physically appealing and artistic would be a tremendous boost to my music career. This would be especially true if I am fortunate enough to have this project legitimized by sponsorship from your organization.