Rising Talent

Most quality art is generalized to what is created by professionals or “older, more experienced” people. However this past weekend, I can say I’ve seen quite remarkable performances by young growing artists from the ages of 7 to 17. On Saturday November 8, 2008, these youth gathered together for a night of talent. This night was called Staten Island Youth Vision Festival, hosted by a local church.

The evening started off a bit bumping. There were a few technical difficulties, however that was soon forgotten when the first act was up. Three cellos, three violins and a piano filled the place with a light peaceful sound of Mozart, followed by the calming, sweet melody of “Amazing Grace” by Bach. Looking around, I can see the peace in the many faces around. Eyes closed to picture perhaps a field of flowers or sunset at a beach. Soon after the trip to relaxation, four young elementary girls scurry onto stage. With their small hands, they began to play the classic, “Ode to Joy”. Although their performance was not perfection, it was adorable. Mozart wasn’t flawless during his first concert.

By the third act I was expecting another musician. There on stage steps out a girl, maybe an upper classmen in high school; no instrument, no music sheets, just herself. A capella perhaps? However words escaped her lips. “Where is the faith?” I still hear her say. Not only was it moving, there was passion in her voice and in the way she delivered her work.

That night four groups presented their dancing abilities. The first was a simple hip-hop routine put on slow-mo. Although it was a slow song, the dance was powerful. The next was a fast song filled with much energy that I was tempted to just jump up and dance. It was fun and jumpy. The third dance was the “Cha Cha Cha.” These two young brother and sister duo were on fire. It was not like the child-play “cha cha cha” but rather the intense professional version. The last dance group consisted of three boys. It is peculiar how these body parts are able to “pop”. It was amazing. Not only was there “popping” but there was also a story. One dancer represented man and other two, good and evil. The older audiences stared in awe as the young folks nodded with what seems like approval.

Not only was this event a night at Carnegie Hall, a poetry café, and an episode of Dancing With the Stars but also it was the Battle of the Bands. Two amateur bands performed originals pieces. The Namoos (translated into The Trees) has a soft airy singer. The words were strange and scary in the beginning. Some may use the words disturbing. However at the end the lyrics came together to paint this picture of a tree. On the other end of the ring, was the lighter band. The girl sang with a cute-like voice, which was evened out by the lower tones of the males.

The highlight of the long evening was the final act. I guess they do save the best for last. It was a short skit. No words, just movement and music were used, possibly making it even more powerful, leaving room for interpretations. It was a very touching performance. I don’t believe anyone left that night without a tear from his or her eye.

Although it was a very long night, it was also a night filled with a variety of art forms. Regardless of the fact that they weren’t getting paid for their performance, they still put 110% of their passion and energy into each act. It was inspiring to see all the talented kids performing not for money but rather for entertainment.