Joseph, though quiet and not one to brag, astonishes many people once they get to see his artistic side. Not only is he a prolific electronic music composer (with three albums under his belt), he is a self-taught pianist and bass player. At a recent end-of-school performance, I watched Joseph quietly walk onto the stage, sit down, and begin playing his bass guitar almost unnoticed…just his bass. By the end of his performance the entire auditorium was on it’s feet. His performance, a bass guitar through a delay pedal, showed a side that few had ever seen. The quiet, seemingly timid, artist became a giant on stage creating melodies and rhythms that were mesmerizing, unique, and totally unexpected.
WHY IS MUSIC IMPORTANT TO YOU?
“Music is important to because I have a talent to express my emotion and use it as an effective emotional and creative outlet. I view it as the career I strive toward as it’s what i enjoy and I’d like to be a little recognized on the side.”
WHAT DID IT FEEL LIKE THE FIRST TIME YOU HEARD A RECORDING OF YOUR MUSIC ON PLAY BACK?
“The first time I heard a recording of my music was what set me straight on my goal as an independent musician. I enjoyed it, I felt accomplished, I felt a door opening in my life.”
WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING THING FOR YOU IN TERMS OF YOUR MUSIC?
“Watching as others hear what I make and getting that praise or constructive criticism, honestly it’s that which keeps me going and striving to be better.”
WHAT DO YOU HOPE PEOPLE TAKE AWAY FROM YOUR MUSIC WHEN THEY HEAR IT?
“I hope that they take an opportunity to relax or liven up from my music, to take a minute to listen to almost any genre that’s been touched.”
“Music brings me peace. I feel like all the stress and worries I have melt away when I get lost in mixing on the synthesizer or playing something.”
Joseph AKA Arogard Flamewing
“At a recent “Art as Social Practice” presentation, I listened to Joseph speak about his art and music and My Voice Music. I was moved as he said that programs like MVM help him to realize there are other people just like him and that he is not alone.”
Ian Mouser MVM Founder/Executive Director