No Fame, No Money... I'm Nobody.

This month has been dedicated to YouTube stars that have inspired me throughout the past twelve months of graduate school. It wasn’t an easy journey, but it’s artists like Sara Bareilles that have had an impact on my life over the past year. It’s a constant hobby of mine to seek out for artists and music that I can relate to at that point and time. After coming across the song “Vegas” by Sarah Bareilles, I have finally found that song that sums up my life at the moment and one that hits reality.

“Gonna quit my job and move to New York

'Cause somebody told me that's where

Dreamers should go…”

It’s not easy to pack up all of your belongings and move to New York City, but I have always been told that it is a city filled with opportunities and is one step closer to making your dream a reality.

“Listen up now honey, you're gonna be sorry

Can't get out from under a sky that is falling

And you say

No fame no money I'm nobody

The way I'm running has sure got me down

On my knees.

But next stop, Vegas please.

Gotta get to Vegas

Can you take me to Vegas?”

I will be completely honest, New York City is everything that I thought it would be and more, but there are days that are a complete struggle and I wonder why I put myself through this test. It seems like the more I do, the more debt I get myself into and that is the sky that is falling that I can’t get out from under. “No fame no money I'm nobody. The way I'm running has sure got me down on my knees,” is the line in the song that best describes my life at this moment in time. Vegas has got to be the next step that I take in life. Whether Vegas means staying in New York or continuing onward with the journey, it’s time to meet people, continuing to network, get some experience interning, make some contacts, land a full time job, and the big one… start making money.

“It's always just around the corner or you're

On your way to somewhere

That is bigger or better...

If you could only get there.”

This song is worth so much and says it all. I listen to the album almost everyday on the subway on my way to work and really respect Sara Bareilles as a person. This song has had an impact on my life and the decisions to keep moving forward.  It’s a tough world out there, but you just have to take one day at a time and work hard. I know that everything is going to be okay, but it’s all about timing and the stress it takes to get where you are trying to go. I know it’s close, hopefully right around the corner and I’m on my way… now if I could only get there.

Living The Dream...

This past week has been a whirlwind, but I have finally made it to The Big Apple. Moving from Florida back home to Pennsylvania and then to New York, all within four days, along with starting two internships has been quite the journey. In the words of Alicia Keys, “If I can make it here, I can make it anywhere, that's what they say…,” it has been a journey this far and I can honestly say I am truly blessed to be where I am at this point in my career. Coming from a small town in Pennsylvania, I have always had big dreams growing up and have been known to follow those dreams.

“Concrete jungle where dreams are made of

There's nothing you can't do

Now you're in New York!

These streets will make you feel brand new

Big lights will inspire you

Hear it for New York, New York, New Yooork!”

If there is one place on earth that makes you feel brand new, it has to be New York. There are so many opportunities and things to be inspired by within the entertainment industry. I have been given the opportunity to intern with VIACOM/MTV Networks in the MTV News and Docs department working with production management. I have also been given the opportunity to intern with NBC Universal working with the MSNBC booking team. Both companies have been amazing this far. It’s a great feeling to be inspired, appreciated, and welcomed.

With all that aside, it has been a challenging, stressful, eventful, successful, motivational, and entertaining week. Along with graduating with my masters in entertainment business from Full Sail University in 3 weeks, finishing my last class and final business plan, I plan to utilize these next four months to gain experience within the entertainment industry along with finding my niche. My ultimate goal is to land a full time job with one of these companies and I’m determined to survive in this industry. “I'ma make it by any means, I got a pocketful of dreams.” It’s artists like Alicia Keys who inspire individuals like myself to want to succeed in life. I think it’s highly important to educate yourself with the knowledge needed to survive in life, to enjoy life, and to follow that dream of yours. 

"Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." —Confucius

Shark Suggestions...

The show, Shark Tank, is one of the best examples of pitching a business plan. There are many aspects to consider when pitching a business plan, but the main focus of your pitch is to educate your investors on how your product is going to sell and make money. The sharks are only interested in making money. Each shark specializes in a different area, but will invest in any product that they feel will sell and be successful. It is really all about how is your product unique, how much do you believe in your product, what are your past sales, and how will this product make money.

Barbara and Robert are my two favorite sharks. Barbara specializes in Real Estate and is a highly intelligent woman when coming to investments. Robert focuses on technology and is a smart man when considering putting money into an investment. Both sharks have taught me a lot about investing in general, the effective ways to pitch a business plan idea, and what each “shark” wants to hear.

This show and these sharks have taught me that pitching a business plan idea is not always an easy task and things to think about along the way. I’ve learned that for an investor to even consider giving you an investment, you must have an idea that stands out. The sharks always find it interesting when other big companies have shown interest in your product as well. I plan to take my business plan concept and figure out how I can stand out, how I can be unique, and how my product will make money. After conducting research about each of these investors, it has really opened my eyes to determine if my business plan is good enough to sell, survive, and be successful. The sharks have taught me that the most important aspects of your business plan are obviously the financials and how well you present your idea. I plan to take their effective criticism, their advice on being successful, and maybe someday I will be presenting my idea in front of the shark tank.

Shark Tank Experts...

Barbara Corcoran was known as the girl with straight D’s in high school and in college, but by the time she was twenty-three, she had already had twenty jobs. Her twenty-first job was the start of her entrepreneurship and made her one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the country. She started the Corcoran Group with just a $1,000 loan. “She parlayed that loan into a five-billion-dollar real estate business which she sold in 2001 for $66 million.” 

Barbara now contributes to NBC’s TODAY Show where she shares her weekly knowledge in the real estate market. She is also well known on ABC’s reality hit Shark Tank as an investor and shark. Since her time on Shark Tank, she has bought into eleven new businesses and is leading them to success. “Barbara is the author of three books including her most recent, Shark Tales, detailing her inspiring true story and her best advice for anyone starting a business.” She is known as a motivational, inspirational, sometimes outrageous, and tell-it-like-it-is attitude, but is a refreshing approach to success. According to WatchMojo’s interview with Barbara, she looks for a pattern in businesses and here are some things she considers:

“WatchMojo: What’s the common trait between all the investments you’ve made?

Barbara Corcoran: Oh, they have many things in common:

#1, each and everyone of them very high energy,

#2, they weren’t all great presenters, but they all had the right answers to the questions,

#3, they totally believe in their idea,

#4, which is harder to get in a TV form like that organized, I kept trying to say my success guide has got one, two, three as he or she organized, because I think you have to be organized or have a second in command to be organized for you if you are going to succeed in business.”

According to Barbara Corcoran, there are a few things she looks for, “Come on Shark Tank and give us your pitch! Make sure you can sell your product, because if you as the head of the company can't sell it, who will? Also be sure you're ready to answer the two key questions too many of the entrepreneurs who come on the show can't: 1) What will you do with my money? and 2) How will I get my investment back?”

“We all know the dot com industry has had its ups and downs over the past decade. But here's a guy who continually manages to bracket the boom with dollar signs! Robert Herjavec has lived the classic "rags to riches" story.” Robert use to wait tables for a living at a posh Yorkville restaurant. During the initial stages of the dot com craze, he realized that technology was the ticket to serious money. He soon then launched his first technology company, BRAK systems, which is now worth a reported $100 million dollars. He originally sold the company to AT&T in 2000, but that was just a start. He then negotiated another company to Nokia for $225 million.

He now heads The Herjavec Group, a leading IT security and infrastructure integration firm, instead of retiring. “His palatial 50,000 square foot Bridle Path mansion hosts luminaries like Michael Bublé and Mick Jagger. For thrills, Robert jets to a private island near Miami or cruises Yorkville in one of his many luxury cars.”

According to Robert Herjavec, there are a few things he looks for, “First step make sure you need investment – or do you simply need a loan. Most people that want an investment simply need a loan – keep in mind if a bank will not give you a loan – you are going to have a hard time with investors also. They are out there – this is the greatest time in history of concentration of investment capital in cash. Build a great business – everything else flows from that.”

It's... My Moment?! Viral YouTube Queen Rebecca Black is back...

Rebecca Black is back and this time it’s not Friday… it’s her moment! After her smash hit “Friday,” she just released her new “more cutesy” follow-up inspiring pop ballad called “My Moment.” The 14-year-old viral queen is hopefully off to a better start than her previous video. By May of 2011, “Friday” was approaching almost 200 million votes before it was removed from YouTube. Rebecca received so much criticism for her music video being “too cheesy,” but YouTube users fail to remember that every click they make, is supporting her and her work. Even though the music video received almost 200 million votes, the majority of those were “dislikes.” Rebecca stated that she didn’t write the song, used to struggle with all the hatred that people had for her, and is the reason for her new single “My Moment.” It is a song strictly about haters…

“Haters, said I'll see you later


Can't talk to you right now


I'm getting my paper


Said I'm doing big things


Things you never dreamed of


I hope you are happy cause I'm 'bout to blow up”

Tacky?! She’s 14!!! Let the girl live her life! She’s your typical teenage girl living in her fantasy world. She’s obviously making money and doing something right. What can you say about yourself? 

It’s nothing new that any other 14-year-old pop princess hasn’t produced in the past.

I think this new single is a step closer to heading in the right direction, but people are going to dislike her regardless of what she produces. Her last single “Friday” continues to be part of peoples weekend by either changing their Facebook status to those lyrics, posting the video, or tweeting “It’s Friday, Friday… gotta get down on Friday!” Many are glad that the video has been removed from YouTube, but she has gained so much free marketing and promotion through these videos.

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Look At Me Now...

Karmin, “The Little Band with a Big Sound,” continues to gain fame within the YouTube community. Nick and Amy met at Berklee College of Music in Boston, a small town in Old Town, Maine, and in Seward, Nebraska. They then began writing songs together, originally for school projects, before becoming known as Karmin. With a Latin meaning, they chose the name “Carmen” because it means “song” altering the spelling to hint “karma” into the mix. Nick and Amy are becoming very popular within the YouTube community and are well known for their distinct writing style.

With over twenty-five million views in two months, “Look At Me Now” has received some attention on YouTube. Originally a song by Chris Brown ft. Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes, Karmin is known to cover their own version of top hits. Karmin has uploaded over twenty-three cover song videos, ten original song videos, and ten “Random Awesome-ness” videos. According to AJ Rafeal, “Karmin mixes soul and passion into their music with a perfect amount of pop sprinkled on top. Their charisma and charm keeps you glued to your computer screen for hours…”

I think Nick and Amy are a brilliant match. They have a creative style to them and each of their videos are unique and different. Amy also has a unique style to her as well and a voice like no other.  Nicki Minaj? Chris Brown? I think her voice can be inspired by Nicki Minaj and a few others, but she incorporates it into her own style. What about her rapping skills? Yeah, I think she nailed it! Artists like Nick and Amy are on the right track to an even bigger fame with their amount of video views and fan base. Their official website gives you all the news and latest information about them and also gives you information on upcoming appearances, CD downloads, and a link to their store. Check Karmin out here!

All information taken from http://karminmusic.com/ and http://www.youtube.com/user/karmincovers

Last Friday Night...

Katy Perry …or Kathy Beth Terry??? According to KatyPerry.com, “Nobody LIKES Kathy Beth Terry and she wishes she was more popular.” Kathy Beth Terry is an eighth grade girl who is obsessed with the solar system, high school science fairs, Sudoku puzzles, Weenie Babies, Skip It, Pogo Sticks, Jonathan Taylor Thomas, and Hanson. Not your typical “Katy Perry,” but this new video is hilarious! 

It not only brings back memories from your high school/college days, but also relives that retro 80’s look/feel. From one-piece jean jumpers to neon spandex, big hair and jewelry, braces, and big glasses… this music video surely brings back memories to many. Weren’t the 80’s fun? …or just fun on “Friday?” Is Katy Perry, or Kathy Beth Terry, best friends with Rebecca Black now? Katy Perry must have built some sort of relationship with her after receiving the rights to perform “Friday” live in concert and putting Rebecca Black, at blame for the party, in the new music video.

There were also a few other well-known faces to make an appearance in this music video. Where did Kenny G come from? He definitely fits “the look” of the 80’s scene, but plays one mean tenor saxophone. Another familiar face would be Artie from Glee. Who would have fit that part better than him… from the taped glasses to the braces and “nerdy” look, Kathy Beth couldn’t have fell in love with a better nerd.

I think it’s brilliant when artists can step out of character and create a new one to get people talking. Is it a marketing strategy? For people in Kathy Beth’s shoes? Or just for fun? Either way, it was a giant step away from Katy’s sexy, candy land, fantasy dream world. Since Rebecca Black’s “Friday” video was removed from YouTube, I guess there needs to be another song about Friday, that almost everyone can relate to at least once in their lifetime… and I think this video (Last Friday Night… T.G.I.F.) is the perfect fit to take its place.

Lady Gaga Continues to Make History...

Lady Gaga, or Mother Monster, continues to make history. From her music videos to her live performances, album sales, speeches, fighting for equality, dramatic hair and makeup, wardrobe malfunctions, and last but not least her meaningful fashion statements… clearly Gaga was born this way.

She is known as a major force in the music industry selling over eight million records worldwide with digital sales in excess of twenty million. With over 288,000 albums sold its first day, 1.11 million albums sold in the first week, and the fastest-selling album of the year… Gaga deserves to be number one on the Billboard 200. She also just received the Fashion Icon Award at the 2011 CFDA Fashion Awards and was named number seven out of the 100 most powerful women.

Gaga is known to be an inspiration to the lives of many and has a passion in life… to satisfy her fans, or little monsters. Gaga is one artist that I can say is in it because she was born with a gift. A gift to perform… and isn’t an artist that leads you to believe that she is only in it for the money. She is truly an inspiration and a gift to the music industry. Her fans also appreciate her for what she stands for… equality. Not many get her style or wonder why she dresses the way she does, but they also don’t understand her story or the true meaning of her fashion statement that still has everyone talking… the meat dress. 

Say what you want about her, but she is brilliant. From her PR to her marketing team along with promoting her image, she must have one of the best/most clever teams working with her ever… who wouldn’t want to work with Gaga?! I would do anything to be part of her team!

Someone Like... Adele

Adele is one artist to quickly hit the spot light. “Someone Like You” is the last song on her album that really became popular and touched the lives of many. After feeling miserable and lonely, Adele wrote this song, which contradicted her song “Rolling in The Deep.” However, speaking from the heart and personal experience, “Someone Like You” is that song that almost everyone can relate to. After an emotional break-up, this song tells the story of her imaging years down the road looking for him and he’s happily married with a beautiful wife and kids. And she’s still on her own. Her true passion and emotion reaches out to the many lovers who can relate and have had their heart broken. This song has made her who she is today and she is such an inspiration. From her witty stage presence to her gorgeous look, her voice is one to send chills down your spine.

There is even a dance remix of “Someone Like You.”

From covers to remixes, Adele is flooding YouTube. So many of her songs have been remade by celebrities along with Adele’s biggest fans. Here is David Cook’s raspy rock and roll version of “Rolling in The Deep.”

From Lindsay Lohan to Gnarls Barkley, here are two remixes that make you want to turn up the volume.

Another cover that stands out is this talented individual from YouTube.

One group that is making headlines is the PS22 Chorus. From uploading a video to YouTube to landing on the Official Adele Website, this group is truly an inspiration. It’s so great to see grade schools inspiring kids through extremely talented artists.

Adele is truly an inspiring artist and is proof that music is one of the best ways to get through all those hard times. She expresses every emotion through her music and has even brought a tear to her eye singing in the moment live on stage. It’s artists like her that really make you feel like you have a purpose in life and to never hide your emotions. I’m so glad a friend introduced her to me because she has really had an impact on my life along with sharing some of the same life experiences. 

8 Year Old Raps Black Eyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough (Cover/Remix) Ma...

Talented or not? The newest Justin Bieber look-a-like? Check him out...

Were You 'Born This Way?'

Lady Gaga has come to great success with her popular single ‘Born This Way.’ Toping the charts and remaining number one for weeks, this song has been an eye opener and a crowd pleaser. From covers to remixes, this song has flooded YouTube with the talent of others along with being able to express yourself. She has touched the lives of so many sending the message that it doesn’t matter what or who you are, that you were born this way! Lady Gaga is so talented and in my opinion one artist that is in it because she was truly born with this gift and not just in it for the money. Lady Gaga is one artist that is strictly fan based and is always reaching out to make sure her “monsters” are satisfied and have something to relate to. One fan that grabbed Gaga’s attention was the talented Maria Aragon. Releasing a cover of ‘Born This Way’ on YouTube landed her in Toronto, Canada to perform live with Gaga herself.

Lady Gaga has also cracked the whip on the newly released ‘The Country Road Version of Born The Way.’ You would never think her style could match the country twang and harmonica, but it is actually, in my opinion, an entertaining and unique creation.

‘Born This Way’ has also been a leading contributor and supporter for the NOH8 campaign. NOH8 is a photographic silent protest for equal rights supporting the LGBT community. This song couldn’t have fit the campaign any better.

Another YouTube favorite of mine is Sam Tsui’s cover of ‘Born The Way.’ He is one of many covers out there, but one that stands out in my mind for his unique and creative style. Each of his covers are inspirational and you can tell he puts a lot of time and energy into his work. He is known for his covers, but his originals are also a piece of art. I have been a true follower of Sam and really appreciate his work. I also have respect for everyone who has supported Lady Gaga and ‘Born This Way,’ not only for it’s up beat club feeling, but also it’s true meaning.

The Story of Ethan Bortnick

Ethan Bortnick is one inspiring individual with a true passion for music along with being an eye opener to the wonderful world of music. “At only nine-years-old, Ethan Bortnick is already achieving accomplishments that many musicians work towards for an entire career.” He is well known for mimicking any music he hears, whether on the radio or while listening to the popular Baby Einstein series. Ethan began learning how to play the piano at the early age of three. Currently at the age of nine along with a talent beyond his age, he has the ability to play almost any song by ear.

At the age of five, his talent was outstanding and was already starting to compose his own music. “Ethan appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno in May of 2007, making his national television debut.  Since then, he has returned to the show three times as Leno’s guest, including an appearance in May 2009 where he presented Jay with a special gift – a song titled “The King of Late Night” which Ethan wrote as a tribute to the talk show host.  He has appeared on national shows on every major network including The Oprah Winfrey Show, Good Morning America, The Martha Stewart Show and Yo Gabba Gabba.”

 Ethan has appeared in front of crowds as large as 20,000 people. He has also performed in concerts and televised specials both nationally and internationally. His first concert stage debut was opening for Nelly Furtado in Hollywood, FL in May 2007 after meeting her on the set of The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He has also taken the stage with both the Orlando and Naples Philharmonic Orchestras. He is currently the youngest piano soloist to ever perform with these ensembles. Through charity events and concerts, he has also taken the stage with legendary artists including Elton John, Natalie Cole, Smokey Robinson, Beyoncé, Reba McEntire, Gloria Gaynor and many more.

“On February 1, 2010, Ethan joined music’s biggest names as the youngest member of the all-star “We Are The World 25 For Haiti” line up.  Produced by Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie, the track featured superstars including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Kanye West and Miley Cyrus and made its debut during the opening ceremony of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.”

As one of the world’s youngest philanthropists, Ethan had made a name for himself along with using his talent to express his desire to help people, especially children. “By performing, inspiring and educating, he has helped raise millions of dollars for charities around the world.” These charities include the Miami Children’s Hospital, the Boys & Girls Club, the American Heart Association, the Starkey Hearing Foundation and many others.

Ethan is currently on the road with his show along with lighting up the stage in his first national headlining tour. He brings some of music’s biggest hits and classics to life for crowds both young and old in over 50 cities across the country. Ethan arrives in Orlando, Florida on Friday, March 4, 2011 at the Plaza Live Theatre, 425 North Bumby Ave., Orlando, FL. Doors open at 6:30pm with showtime at 7:30pm. Tickets are $29.50 plus service fees and can be purchased at the Plaza Live Theatre, online or by calling the box office at 407-228-1220.

Ethan is truly an inspiring person to me along with an amazing musician. True talent is hard to find at this age, but clearly this proves that it’s possible. Ever since I’ve seen Ethan on TV, I think he is beyond talented and can’t imagine where he’ll be further on in his career. My hopes are that Ethan’s story inspires more parents to want to make music a part of their children’s life. I am a true believer that music is one of the most important talents out there and is one that is repeatedly overlooked in schools. I believe music should be a top priority, and through music, anything is possible.

All information taken from Ethan Bortnick.

Boyce Avenue at The Plaza Theatre on Feb. 27th

Boyce Avenue, a Florida-based band popular for its strong acoustic roots and melodic rock sound, consists of the three brothers Alejandro, Fabian, and Daniel Manzano.

“In 2007, in an effort to share their music and ideas with the world, the band decided to start filming and posting videos on YouTube of their own songs and some of their favorite songs by other artists. Some of the first few videos they posted included acoustic versions of songs such as Justin Timberlake’s “LoveStoned”, Rihanna’s “Umbrella”, and Coldplay’s “Viva la Vida”, among many others. The videos began to resonate instantly with YouTube viewers.”

Boyce Avenue have been an inspiration to me since I’ve discovered them on YouTube. While studying to receive my masters in Entertainment Business, I’m always on the search for “Inspiring YouTube Stars.” They are that breath of fresh air and through their passion for music, they have recorded some of most creative and unique acoustic covers and mixes.

“Currently, the band is touring Europe and preparing its next nationwide headline tour of the United States. Launching with this U.S. summer tour, the band will remain on the road through the end of the year, with repeat touring in Europe, and plans to enter new international territories, including Canada, South America, Asia, and Australia.”

Boyce Avenue will be making an appearance in Orlando, Florida on February 27^th at 8p.m. at The Plaza Theatre, 425 N. Bumby Avenue, Orlando, FL, 32803. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased online or through their box office at 407-228-1220. “The Plaza Theatre is Orlando’s premiere live concert venue offering a wide range of concerts, comedians, and cultural events. In the early 1990’s, the theater was converted into a live-performance hall which opened the doors for many new artists and talent, while also acting as the 3rd largest seated venue in Central Florida.” I’m really looking forward to this event and have already seen how excited others are on Facebook to see them live. It’s one thing watching your favorite artists on YouTube, but it’s always an experience of a lifetime to see them perform live. I am also a huge supporter the arts and appreciate what people like Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre do to keep the entertainment and music industry alive. Feel free to check out further information and upcoming events at The Plaza Theatre HERE.

All information taken from Boyce Avenue and The Plaza Theatre.

NCIAA - National Club Industry Association of America

“The National Club Industry Association of America (NCIAA) was founded in 1989 and is the official advocate and trade association of Professionals in the Nightlife & Club Industry. The only recognized Professional Club DJ Licensing Bureau in the world resolving DJ name use disputes. The NCIAA needs your help and support to keep our nightlife culture alive and combat unjust laws.”

Some of their responsibilities consist of dealing with laws being threatened by special interest groups against them. They protect member's intellectual, property and First Amendment rights and promote responsibility. They serve as federal, state, municipal "legislative watchdog" to review laws, regulations and policies. They respond to proposals impacting the industry through policy consensus from experts in our field. They also protect, represent and educate their members to serve the industry through coordinated activities along with educating their members, media, elected officials, civic and community leaders on industry issues.

MISSION STATEMENT: “NCIAA's mission is to represent, preserve, protect, educate, promote and support the economic, social and cultural contributions that provide a safe and vibrant nightlife & club industry community.”

Their Members and Alliances consist of Advocates, Community, Development, Entertainment, Establishments, Hospitality, Marketing, Media, Research, Safety, and Suppliers. 

The NCIAA is the main organization that takes care of all legal aspects and to provide them with guidelines to follow to protect your business to keep your doors open. A benefit to their website is the tools to share news, information, issues, legal developments and anti-club activity. They use this program to allow members to list interactive profiles and messaging features. They also allow members to access media, artwork, website, newsletter, and publications and informal services. It provides access to project leads, jobs, fellowships, internships, experts and professional businesses along with networking opportunities with fellow professional peers, colleagues and recognized experts. It also provides access to award shows, conferences, meetings, symposiums, workshops, seminars and tours.

As a possible nightclub/venue owner in the future, it wouldn’t even be a question to join this website… I would greatly consider this organization and what they have to offer. They offer you everything there is to know and give you the ability to be flexible and open to new ideas through networking. Networking is key and is one way to help make your business successful!

All information taken from NCIAA - National Club Industry Association of America

Jose Abreu - kids transformed by music | Video on TED.com

Jose Abreu is a very inspiring person in my eyes. His dream was to be a musician and was determined until his dream came true. His goal was to give back to his country in hopes that the children would have the same opportunities that he had. From his first rehearsal, he saw a bright future for the program that he started, however only eleven students showed up. He was forced to decide, “Do I close the program or multiply these kids.” He decided to fight the challenge and promised those eleven children that he would turn their orchestra into one of the best/leading orchestras in the word. And he did. He was recognized as the 5th World Orchestra, he attends to 300,000 lower to middle class children along with targeting poor children, encourages the younger generation to be role models for their family and their community, and was also awarded the TED prize.

Through his story, he shares knowledge about his life experiences and how he accomplished his goals. To me, he is inspiring because I support the music programs in schools and is one program that has always been sadly looked upon. Schools don’t understand the importance of music in an individual’s life. I saw the music program wither away in my own school and we could have really used someone like Jose to motivate, inspire, and teach children one of the most important talents in the world… to make music.

His strategy is to never give up on something that has so much potential. My goal is to be as inspiring as he was, so someday I can give back to my community for the opportunities it has given me.

“The music becomes a source for developing the dimensions of the human being, thus elevating the spirit, and leading man to a full development of his personality.” –Jose Abreu