Shiloh House

Reviews and Looking Forward

Shiloh House - Longmont

Week Seventeen

August 16, 2010

Things are picking up for us, and each member is present and handling things with a new level of effectiveness.  I mentions this, because it's a great feeling to know that there are multiple people working towards the same goals alongside myself.

We had an informal discussion about the future with the boys in Longmont today.  We showed them a demonstration of some of the advanced software that they can look forward to using, and we had them fill out some forms to give us specific feedback about their experiences in the program so far.  We also got some feedback from the staff, and that will help us design the next phase of programming.  Plus, it will be beneficial for potential revenue supporters to see what the students and staff think about the organization.


Longmont's Backyard


 

We Can See the Finish Line Again!!!

Shiloh House - Adams County

Week Fifteen

August 10, 2010

It was quite the chaotic day. We set many goals for the class period, all with the intention of making next week the last. We had three students scheduled to record vocals, about half the students needed to finish their album cover, most of the students had to pick a final name for their song, and all had to submit their name as they wished it to appear on the cd; after which they would be able to play the keyboard and guitars, which were situated in stations around the room. Almost all was accomplished. There is some very good stuff, much different than what one may find with the older students. This group seems to be less self-conscious and more experimental; also, surprisingly, they are very certain of what sound they are looking for, whether vocals or samples. As the older students are more conditioned to mainstream taste, the younger group appears more experimental because they lack the acute peer pressure that often, if not always, shapes the self.

As extra motivation we showed the students the website featuring the Longmont student's albums.

A few of the students were unable to be present, making it difficult to make next week the last week, but we will see. We look forward to editing the final songs, it really a chance for us to gauge our progress.

This week we learned that much can be accomplished in the midst of perceived chaos.

The Completion of Our First Program!!!

Shiloh House - Longmont

Week Sixteen

August 9, 2010

Today was the day that we have been working towards in a general sense. Today the students received their cds in their final form. We began the class by bringing the students pizza and natural soda, which we had arranged  to do prior to class. While the students were eating, we played live performances from many of the artists that have inspired us personally over the years. It was a treat to have them respond so positively to music that, in many cases, was at least twenty years old. Afterward, Cody gave a live performance in honor of the student's accomplishments, stating, "It is only right that I perform for those we have asked, week after week, to set aside fear for the sake of expanding boundaries." Cody's performance was magical for all of us.

Finished Projects

Finished Projects

Then there was the unveiling of the cds, one at a time. We played each student's mastered song  through the monitor speakers, at the end which, we gave the student their cd. Aaron did an unbelievable job in editing the album covers, giving them a store-ready appearance and feel. Each time a cd was handed out, the students would crowd around the featured student's desk, and all would share his excitement. Everyone was very enthused.

For the finale, we unveiled the student's music and artwork on the website. We explained to them that anyone, anywhere, could access and download their music, and that their music would be there, for the world, forever.

We then took pictures and played basketball for some time. It was fun to interact with the students on a different level, especially after so much was accomplished!

Together we set a goal, and together we accomplished what we had set out to do. We all, now, have less fear in setting goals, for we know that they can be achieved.

Thank you boys!!!


Shiloh Longmont - Albums Complete

Finished Projects



Vocals, Album Covers, Keyboards, Bass

Shiloh House – Adams County

Week Fourteen

August 3, 2010

These guys are doing really well, and we are very close to having their class album completed.  Cody is doing a nice job helping each guy stay on topic while recording their voices over the music they made.  We have everyone moving through the keyboard and bass guitar stations, and their album covers are coming along nicely.  It's really rewarding working with them to refine the songs they make, which need a few tweaks here and there.  This was the inspirational video for the day:

We had a student say that the guy in the video copied from him, so we put him to the test...and he pulled it off!  There's some strong talent in this room for sure.

Almost there…

Shiloh Home – Longmont Campus

Week Fifteen, Lesson Fourteen

August 2, 2010

We like to encourage the boys with videos that demonstrate that age is no barrier for ability:

We are almost finished with the songs that the Longmont students are working on, and they will be ready by next Monday.  Stay tuned...