Coronavirus Updates

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Dear DIME Detroit Community,

We are writing to update you all on new teaching and learning policies that DIME is implementing in response to coronavirus (COVID-19) to slow the spread for the virus and protect our students, faculty, staff, and their families.

Remote teaching and learning
Effective immediately, all campus-based activities at the DIME Detroit location are suspended. Classes will be held online, potentially for the remainder of the spring semester.  Faculty will be determining how best to use technology to enable students to complete their coursework.

Staff and administrative operations
DIME staff are now initiating a work-from-home directive. They will all still be available through their DIME email addresses. Our phone, 313-223-1600, will be answered Monday-Friday from 10am-6pm as usual. Outside of these hours, please email us at info@dime-detroit.com

Large events and meetings
All events and meetings at DIME Detroit’s campus are suspended effective immediately.

We recognize that this may be a complicated transition for some, but we feel that the risk of not acting outweighs the inconvenience. Your safety is our top priority and we remain committed to supporting all community members with the resources they need to provide and receive an excellent education.

Thank you,
DIME Detroit

Student Spotlight: Riley Kirkpatrick (Bass)

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DIME Detroit's annual guitar and bass show, DON'T TURN DOWN, returns to The Underground @ DIME on Wednesday, February 26th at 7pm! To get us ready for this special occasion, we caught up with one of our 2nd year bass students, Riley Kirkpatrick, to tell us a bit more about his background, what it's like studying at DIME, and what musical projects he's working on now. Learn more about Riley in the interview below, and don't miss his performance at DON'T TURN DOWN!

Riley Performing with Viper and the Vertebrae - Photo by Dan Plucinski

What is your background and music education?  What brought you to DIME?
Prior to attending DIME I've had no formal music education, I was primarily self-taught. I applied to DIME after visiting my sophomore year of high school and jamming with a few of the students attending at the time. The overall atmosphere and openness to many genres appealed to me, and I had made up my mind that this is where I wanted to be.

Who are some of your influences?
One of my main influences, as far as my bass playing goes, is Dan Maines from Clutch. Clutch is a band that is very groove oriented, and a solid groove is something that I strive for in my own playing. There are loads of other influences on the sound I would like to create in my music, some being Poppy, Ic3peak, and Code Orange, to name a few, due to their experimental tendencies and blending of genres.

How has DIME impacted your songwriting and style of playing?
DIME has opened up my vocabulary on the instrument tremendously. I've learned a ton of music theory that also helps me to understand what I'm playing, instead of just "oh, this sounds cool".  This has helped me to be more versatile in my bass playing.

What has been your experience performing as an independent artist?
At the moment, I'm playing bass with a band of fellow DIME students, as well as a non-DIME guitarist, under the name "Viper & The Vertebrae". I've been playing bass for bands since I was 16, starting in a folk-rock group, and through that group I have been able to play at all sorts of local Michigan festivals like Beaver Island Music Festival, Nor-East'r, and Hollerfest, as well as a ton of local breweries around Michigan.

 

Any gigs outside of DIME coming up or current projects?
Viper & The Vertebrae are in the process of recording some songs, with hopes of releasing music in the next few months. (Don't tell anyone I told you, it's a secret.) I'm also in the process of writing some deathcore/hardcore/metal songs with a few DIME students, with hopes to play out live soon.

Where do you see yourself after graduation?
After I graduate, I'd like to be regularly playing in a band, or multiple bands (who doesn't though?) Whether that means going on tour, or having gigs with multiple different groups throughout the week, I'll be playing bass somewhere.

What advice would you give someone considering DIME Detroit?
The biggest piece of advice I can give is to be versatile, but to still be yourself. While it is important to be able to fit into multiple contexts, I feel it's even more important to find/keep your own style. As a bass player, most of my opportunities come from being able to play different genres, as well as bringing some of my own influence to the table. To sum it up in three words: just be yourself.

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Check out our talented guitar and bass students and faculty at Don't Turn Down on Wednesday, February 26th at 7PM. Click the image below to learn more and RSVP on Facebook.

Our next semester begins on August 17th, 2020. Start your application for a bachelor's degree program in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals, Songwriting or Music Industry Studies today!

Apply Now

If you’re interested in in finding out more about DIME Detroit, contact info@dime-detroit.com or check out the homepage: www.dime-detroit.com

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Detroit Public Community School District Announces Expanded Arts and Music Programs – Partners with DIME

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Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) announced Tuesday, February 11th it has partnered with 24 arts organizations for an intentional investment of resources and expertise in the Detroit School of Arts (DSA) Pathways Initiative. The initiative is designed to position DSA as the premier arts school in Metro Detroit and to develop students’ talent in the years to follow. The press conference took place inside the Detroit School Arts Aaliyah Recital Hall. Metropolitan State University of Denver Campus Manager Drew Schultz and Year 3 Vocal Performance student Jamiliah Minter were present during the press conference.

It was super insightful to see the kinds of plans that are in motion for DSA, and other establishments in the city. I love the relationships being created and the furthermore excellence that will be created for youth  in Detroit. - Jamiliah Minter, DIME Student and DSA Alumna

DIME is a proud partner of Detroit School of Arts and we look forward to the growth and enhanced opportunities that this program will provide for young musicians in the city of Detroit!

“The Detroit School of Arts is a beautiful facility that is underutilized as an asset to the arts, students and the City,” said Nikolai Vitti, Superintendent, DPSCD. “We know that Detroit’s children represent historic arts talent and that DPS has developed some of the world’s best artists. As we continue to rebuild the school system, we are committed to the whole child, this is a critical piece to the process. The concentration of focus by the District and partners will make DSA the destination for Detroit’s talent.”

In Fall 2019, the District embarked upon Phase I of the DSA Pathways Initiative with 24 partners committed to providing programming in multiple art forms either in-kind or at no-cost during the first full year of rebuilding (through June 2020). Four schools are designated as Middle School Arts Conservatories, or feeder schools, to DSA – Brenda Scott Academy for Theatre Arts, Duke Ellington Conservatory of Music & Art, John R. King Academic and Performing Arts Academy and Spain Elementary-Middle School. The Middle School Arts Conservatories will work with the 24 partnered institutions, as well as with students and faculty from DSA. In addition, DSA Pathways partners are collaborating with national organizations such as Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Educational Theatre Association, and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy to bring the best of arts to DSA and its middle school programs. The Middle School Arts Conservatories will offer five core art forms – dance, theatre, visual arts, instrumental music and vocal music.

For more information about DSA Pathways and the application process.

Brett Farkas Masterclass Recap

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On Friday, February 7th, we welcomed Los Angeles based guitarist, bassist, frontman, songwriter, and music teacher, Brett Farkas, to DIME Detroit!

Brett has performed, toured and recorded with soul legend, Solomon Burke, songwriter, Aimee Mann, pop star, Rihanna, indie folk dudes, Lord Huron, to name some. He has also recorded film scores for the movies, "The Way Way Back" w/ Steve Carrel and Maya Rudolph, and "Burnt" with Bradley Cooper. Brett brought a wealth of experience and advice to students that attended his masterclass, and even offered them feedback on some of their own original songs.

Check out some photos below!

All photos by DIME Student, Donatella Pompeo. Except for the photo of Donatella Pompeo... we don't know who took that one!

Joel Cummins Masterclass Recap

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DIME Detroit welcomed Umphrey's McGee keyboardist and author of The Realist's Guide to a Successful Music Career, Joel Cummins, for a special masterclass on Friday, January 31st, 2020. Interviewed by DIME Detroit's Music Industry Studies instructor and Area Coordinator, Stephanie Belcher, Joel discussed his lengthy career as a touring and recording artist.  Joel also performed his newest Umphrey's McGee single "Suxity" with DIME Detroit students: Marquette Winston (Vocals), Cyrus Keshtkar (Guitar), James Balina (Drums), Casey Jaerling (Bass). Check out some photos of the event below!

 

Photo Credit: Donatella Pompeo

About The Realist's Guide to a Successful Music Career

About writing the book, Joel says: "During the Summer of 2017 I realized that, along with the rapidly approaching 20th anniversary of Umphrey’s McGee, it was also my own 20th year of working in the music industry. With that came a flood of memories about that journey. I couldn’t help but think about how much easier our path could have been if someone had just told me a few things along the way that seem pretty obvious now. So I decided to work with my friend and now co-author Matt DeCoursey to create The Realist’s Guide to a Successful Music Career. Loaded with practical and useful tips for musicians at all stages of their careers, the book includes not only my own input and advice, but also that of many well-known industry performers, promoters and entrepreneurs who we will soon announce as well. My hope is that what we have created can do exactly as the title says and act as a guide for others to follow their dreams."

Cummins not only shares insight from his 20+ years in the industry but the book also features interviews with musicians such as Huey Lewis, Susan Tedeschi, Chuck Leavell and Nikki Glaspie as well as impresario Peter Shapiro, UM managers Kevin Browning and Vince Iwinski, Sony Legacy VP of Digital Marketing Syd Schwartz and others. To learn more about Joel's book, or to purchase, visit realistsguide.com.

About Umphrey's McGee

The music of Umphrey’s McGee unfolds like an unpredictable conversation between longtime friends. Its six participants—Brendan Bayliss [guitar, vocals], Jake Cinninger [guitar, vocals], Joel Cummins [keyboards, piano, vocals], Andy Farag [percussion], Kris Myers [drums, vocals], and Ryan Stasik [bass]—know just how to communicate with each other on stage and in the studio. A call of progressive guitar wizardry might elicit a response of soft acoustic balladry, or a funk groove could be answered by explosive percussion. At any moment, heavy guitars can give way to heavier blues as the boys uncover the elusive nexus between jaw-dropping instrumental virtuosity and airtight songcraft. To learn more about Umphrey's McGee, visit their website at umphreys.com.

To learn more about MSU Denver at DIME degree programs in performance, songwriting, and music industry studies, click the button below!

Learn More!

Head of Drums, Eric “Rain Man” Gaston, performs on Jimmy Kimmel with R&B legend Charlie Wilson

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We are proud to see DIME Head of Drums & Live Music Content, Eric "Rain Man" Gaston on stage living the dream and being an example of hard work to us all. Gaston is the touring drummer for R&B/Soul legend Charlie Wilson, formerly of The Gap Band.  Charlie Wilson performed his latest single "Forever Valentine" on Jimmy Kimmel Live with Rain Man on the drums.  Watch the full performance below!

Instructor Spotlight: Brad Russell

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Bassist Brad Russell prides himself on being a musician that can adapt to multiple genres and styles. His experiences in the music industry range from Rock to Musical Theatre. Arguably, the bass does not receive as much shine as other instruments but Brad brings a specific showmanship and presence whenever he performs. Dive into his Instructor Spotlight interview below!

Tell us about your background; how did you get started working in the music industry? What inspired you to work in music?

I was inspired to start playing music by my family. My older brothers were professional musicians by the time they were teenagers also my father was a drummer & bass player and my mother was and is a great appreciator of music ( she actually saw Charlie Parker, the Beatles and Elvis live!!).  My instructor as a teenager was Max Janowsky from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and he was such a great teacher he inspired me to teach later in life.

What do you do when you’re not working at DIME?

I’m involved in doing some of the things my students aspire to do such as, playing gigs, recording, endorsing brand name music products etc., so I’m able to share with them exactly what it’s like being a professional musician.

What is your favorite class to teach at DIME?

I enjoy teaching at DIME. It’s a perfect school for me to teach, allowing me to share my knowledge in a variety of styles of music.

What has been your proudest moment as a DIME Instructor?

One of the proudest moments so far at DIME is hearing my students be able to successfully apply some of the bass lines or concepts I’ve shown them in musical performance. I’ve seen my students start to be able to connect some of the music theory I’ve taught them to bass lines in a “real world “ sense of application.

Who are your biggest musical inspirations?

Everyone from Bach to Stanley Clarke to Eddie Van Halen to Jazz bass great Ray Brown and my family of course, my older brothers & father all played music professionally.

What are you listening to right now? Do you have any recommendations we should check out?

Animals as Leaders are cool and Jazz Fusion bassist - Janek Gwizdala.

Come meet our students and staff at the Open House + Student Show on Friday, December 13th at 5PM. Our next semester begins on January 21st, 2020. Start your application for a Bachelors program in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals, Songwriting or Music Industry Studies today!

APPLY NOW!

No time to study for a full-time degree? Study individual classes for credit at DIME

INDIVIDUAL CLASSES

If you’re interested in in finding out more about DIME Detroit, contact info@dime-detroit.com or check out the homepage: www.dime-detroit.com

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7 Tips from DIME: Successful Incoming Students Complete These On Time!

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As we get closer to the beginning of the Fall 2020 semester at DIME Detroit, we thought it would be a good idea to remind our incoming student musicians, songwriters, and entrepreneurs the important dates and deadlines associated with starting a college program. There are many benefits to completing application, audition, financial aid, and scholarships on time. We made the list below to keep you on track to a successful start to your music program and career at DIME Detroit!

Attend a Student Show or Open House
When? Offered 2-3 times per year

Of course our amazing staff can provide you with all the information about the program, but no one will do a better job describing DIME than our current students. No conversation with a staff member will come close to comparing to the feeling you'll get when you see your future classmates take the stage at the Underground to perform an original song for the first time. The atmosphere at our Student Shows and Open Houses is something you need to experience before you start the program! Our next student show is on Friday, December 13th at 7pm, learn more and RSVP here! 

Audition Early for Individualized Feedback
When? As soon as possible! 

We hear it all the time: "When's the last possible date I can audition?" We totally understand; You want to perfect your song choices, agonize over your scales and brush up on your sight reading before you meet with us. However, auditioning at the last possible date denies you the opportunity to receive feedback and guidance from one of our staff or faculty. We would prefer to get an earlier assessment of your playing ability and provide you with detailed feedback and areas for improvement. Often times, we invite students to come back for a second audition, giving them time to correct any mistakes and perfect their performance. Schedule your audition today by calling us at 313-223-1600, or emailing info@dime-detroit.com

Complete your Online Application
When? At least 6 months in advance

Completing the MSU Denver online application for the program takes about 10 minutes, and you can get it done right now! Once your application is processed, MSU Denver will request additional documents from you like transcripts, test scores, and, depending on academic performance, potentially a personal statement or letters of recommendation. Give yourself extra time and complete your online application for the MSU Denver at DIME program as soon as possible. You can apply now on MSU Denver's website.  Use the code "makeyourmark" to waive the application fee! 

Complete your FAFSA
When? Opens in October for the following Fall

Completing a FAFSA is not just about taking out loans! Having your application complete can also qualify you for grants and scholarships, some of which can be awarded based on academic performance while in school. Unfortunately, some students wait months before they fill out the FAFSA, and they lose out on opportunities and money for school. Complete a FAFSA as early as possible for the best possible outcome! Get started now at fafsa.ed.gov.

Apply for Scholarships
When? MSU Denver deadline is March 1st

The hunt for scholarships is an ongoing task that we can help you with. MSU Denver offers hundreds of scholarships for incoming and current students, but you must have a FAFSA completed, and the priority deadline for their scholarships is March 1st. DIME also offers scholarships to students who are in need, and while our deadline dates are much later, we still encourage our incoming students to apply early to maximize their award potential.
MSU Denver Scholarships
DIME Scholarships

Set up your MSU Denver Email
When? As soon as you're accepted

At the top of the list of reasons to activate your MSU Denver email address: MSU Denver's Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will only communicate with you through that account. Once you are accepted, you will receive an email to your personal email address providing you with login details. Visit www.msudenver.edu/myfirstlogin to get access to the Student Hub, Email Account, Financial Aid info, and more.

Register for Classes
When? 2-3 months before classes start

Registering for classes early means that you'll get the benefit of choosing the times that work best for your busy schedule. We know that many of our students are juggling part-time jobs, band practices, and other obligations, so your early registration for classes will help you to plan your schedule out well in advance, ensuring that you'll have a successful start to your first semester. A DIME Admissions representative will get in touch with you

Need Help?
Get in touch with us today! 

We have a great staff that are ready to help you through any of the steps above!

Student Show & Open House: Friday, December 13th

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Our Student Show comes around only twice a year! Featuring performances of original and cover songs from the next generation of Detroit musicians, artists, and songwriters - our talented students have studied, rehearsed, auditioned, and rehearsed some more to prepare - come show your support!

We will also be opening our doors early for a New Student Mixer & Open House, welcoming our incoming Spring/Fall 2020 students as well as musicians, songwriters, and entrepreneurs that may be interested in joining us for a future semester. We will have staff and student representatives on hand to answer any questions about the programs, financial aid, scholarships, and more.

RSVP on Facebook, here. 

If you have questions about the event please contact us!

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Local Mic Night presented by GRiZ featuring Great Lakes Coffee Brewing Co.

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Back again as one of our favorite 12 Days of GRiZMAS events, we are partnering with Electronic artist/instrumentalist GRiZ for the second edition of GRiZMAS Local Mic Night. Taking place at The Underground at DIME, come and enjoy performances from local poets, musicians, comedians, DIME students and GRiZ Fam! Our goal is to raise money for our charity partner while spreading creativity and showcasing amazing local Detroit talent. Tickets are on sale online and at the door for $10, however you can buy a bag of original GRiZMAS Blend coffee at the door to get in FREE. Yup, just buy a full bag of coffee at the door and receive free entry.

Interested in performing?
Fill out this google doc with your submission to apply. Submission deadline is December 3rd.
https://forms.gle/vxdt4eGQAuUFCpBn9

Connect with 12 Days of GRiZmas:
http://12daysofgrizmas.com
https://www.facebook.com/12DaysOfGRiZMAS
https://twitter.com/12daysofgrizmas
https://www.instagram.com/12daysofgrizmas/

We are currently auditioning for our Spring and Fall 2020 semesters. Click below to request more information! 

Contact Us