I grew up in the arts. From age three, I was in dance classes, art classes, piano lessons, musical theatre, etc. I gained an incredible understanding of the technical elements that make the arts not just entertainment but a craft.
When I was small, the stages were small as well. As I grew older, the venues and audiences grew as well as my commitment and ability. At 14, I missed 3 months of school to be in a professional production of the Sound of Music. By 18, I was burnt out. My upbringing had led me to sing at pro sports arenas and a choral tour of Italy but it was never my place to create but just be a part of someone else’s creation.
The transition to college wasn’t my best endeavor. I felt unsure of my direction and unsure of my purpose. I started writing music and singing/playing in a band that was having some success and after a year together, I was able to hear my first single on the radio. Soon after, we played our first festival, and signed to a label. We released our first record, and toured and shot a music video to promote our record. After 20 years of playing roles for someone else, I was able to metaphorically, write my own script. Taking ideas from scratch and working them into a brand and building them into popularity, gave me a feeling that I’d never had.
Soon after the tour, we did what bands do. Life took us separate ways. I took my desire to create and ability to engage with people and started pursuing some of my own curiosities. These have ranged from photography and graphic design to a Top 40 Radio station and church planting. I’m rediscovering myself as someone who is not limited by a lack of certification, with the ability to lean forward and take ownership what tomorrow brings with a wealth of unique experiences inspiring me.
I found Praxis by word of mouth from friends I admire and the fit seemed natural. Hard work, commitment to excellence, and forward thinking are traits I can get onboard with.