DIME invites you to a Masterclass with Kern Brantley
Serving as musical director for over 2,000 live shows, Kern is DIME artist in residence and has toured with Lady Gaga, Beyonce, Chris Brown, Young Jeezy and many more!
Friday March 3rd
1PM-3PM
Open to the public
$5 For Guest/Free For Students
The Underground at DIME
5 pieces of advice to parents of DIME students
Lea Wiercioch and Steven Showers once stood in the position that parents of prospective students at the Detroit Institute of Music Education now do, wondering what to expect from the one-of-a-kind specialty college.
As parents of students who will be part of DIME’s first graduating class, they recently reflected on their experience to give others perspective.
Here are five highlights they think you should know:
Trust the instructors: Lea’s daughter, Alison, is a folk music vocalist and songwriter, but early in her studies at DIME, her instructor had her singing tunes from Motown legend Stevie Wonder’s catalog. The purpose? Expose Alison to another genre and extend her ability to perform and improvise.
“You have to trust what they’re doing,” Lea said. “I admit wondering ‘Why Stevie Wonder?’ Everything is done for a reason and it helped her immensely.”
Embrace Detroit: The city’s resurgence is real, especially in the heart of downtown where DIME Detroit is located. There is energy and opportunity, according to Steven, the father of guitar student, Jimmy Showers. The elder Showers has lived in New York City and Chicago and says they have nothing on Michigan’s largest city.
“Watching what’s happening here and what’s available is incredible,” he said. “Detroit today is exciting. There are people everywhere. You can do anything. It’s a great, safe place to be. Come down and check out the music venues, the public spaces, the restaurants. There is a reason DIME works in Detroit and why Detroit works for DIME.”
Prepare for late-night jam sessions: Students, well after classes have ended for the day, often hang out with each other at their parents’ homes. They tend to play their instruments, sing and laugh together at all hours of the night. It was a comfort to Lea.
“It was actually a really cool part of the experience,” she said. “You could hear and see them forming relationships with each other. They love to be together, and then you saw the change in their talent and ability. They progressed so far so fast because of what they were learning.”
Come check us out… SCHEDULE A TOUR
Step back to let them soar: The music industry is demanding. It’s unforgiving. It’s hard. And so is the instruction and guidance offered at DIME. But it’s also for the best, both Steven and Lea said. The professional musicians offer honest constructive criticism that sometimes requires a thick skin for students and parents.
“You have to let it go as a parent,” Lea said. “It’s for the best because every step is about learning, and ultimately, it’s not going to be easy. At some point in a career, there will be hurdles, rejection or heartache, but they’re prepared for it and know how to keep pushing forward.”
Enjoy the ride: Their personal and professional trajectories hit rocket speed during their time in the program. Attend the live performances. Be active in their education.
“It’s an adventure and you have laid the groundwork for your child to succeed,” Steven said. “Everything they’ve done, it’s not just to find a job. It’s taking that passion and talent to a rewarding career. My son has a future in the music industry and that’s exciting. It’s what he wanted and DIME has gotten him there.”
It’s time again for DIME’s Open House!
With classes taught by music industry pros, masterclasses from major-label artists, and a creative and inspiring learning environment, DIME Detroit is a music institute like no other. Meet DIME Detroit instructors, staff, and students! Check out our facilities and see live performances on all 3 DIME stages. Learn about our degree programs in partnership with MSU Denver and get all the information about classes starting in Fall 2017!
Click here for more information or to register!
Or, feel free to contact us at 313-223-1600 or at info@dime-detroit.com
Taming the DIME audition nerves: “Success lies outside of your comfort zone”
Steven Showers saw the nerves in his son, Jimmy Showers, before his guitar audition for administrators at DIME Detroit.
Since then, Steven has watched Jimmy get excited before putting on incredible performances for a crowd of more than 1,000 people.
It was part of the learning process and something most students will encounter, Jimmy said. He beat back his audition nerves by using a piece of advice given to him by a friend, who told him: “Success lies outside of your comfort zone.”
Jimmy, who considered himself shy before the audition, embraced the opportunity to build a foundation.
“I just took the risk and took the chance,” said Jimmy, who is set to graduate from DIME in May. “I believed in myself and that’s what I would tell other students who are interested in going to DIME.
“Go ahead and do it because you’re never going to know if you don’t.”
Unlike Jimmy, Ali Wiercioch, a vocal student who had performed in community theater and choirs growing up, wasn’t intimidated as she approached her DIME audition.
That doesn’t mean it went off without a hitch.
Ali recalls being warmly greeted by Elise McCoy, the school’s Head of Recruitment and Admissions. She first interviewed Ali, then asked her to demonstrate musical skill including sight reading music, at the time, a weakness of Wiercioch’s.
“I did my best and worked through it,” Ali said. “Elise made me feel comfortable that I could be myself, so while I knew it could have gone better, I also knew that it wasn’t the end of the world.”
Ali and Jimmy know that the audition format can produce anxiety, particularly because performers understand the benefit of getting into DIME’s program that will build sustained, successful careers in the music industry.
Jimmy reminds musicians they don’t have to be perfect, but they do have to be passionate. That desire will help them shine.
As Jimmy learned and has since repeated: “Success lies outside of your comfort zone.”
Come check us out… SCHEDULE A TOUR
Get your tickets here!
Detroit Laugh City, producers of outstanding comedy events, proudly brings national touring comedian, writer, and actor, Dwayne Kennedy!
About Dwayne: DWAYNE KENNEDY is a stand-up comedian, actor and writer whose TV writing credits include The Arsenio Hall Show (CBS), The Orlando Jones Show (FX), and the critically acclaimed FX/FXX original series, Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell.
His debut stand-up comedy EP, OH NO, ITS DWAYNE KENNEDY! is available now at Bandcamp, with a variable price point plan (Black Folks = $9, White Folks = It Depends).
Dwayne got his start in comedy in his native Chicago at Zanies Comedy Club, and has since evolved into one of the funniest and most thought-provoking comedians of our time. His satirical diversions and piercing perspective on social and world issues showcase a comedic genius heralded by the likes of Chris Rock and Marc Maron.
Described as a world-class stand-up by The Village Voice, Dwayne continues to challenge the norm and connect with audiences through his keen, incisive wit. Winner of the 2002 US Comedy Arts Festival in Aspen, Colorado, Dwaynes stand-up has been featured on The Late Show with David Letterman, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Premium Blend, Comedy Central Presents, and Talkin’ Dirty after Dark.
Dwaynes acting credits include roles on Seinfeld, Martin, Amen, 227 and in the feature film How High. Hes also had the distinction of appearing as a correspondent on Totally Biased with W. Kamau Bell, where one of his popular segments was named the The Most Intentionally Funny Video of the Day at Nerdist.
Joining Dwayne is local favorites, comedians Tom McCarthy & Tonya Murray!
Tickets are only $15 at the door – but when they’re gone, they’re gone – SO GET YOURS NOW!
What attracted me to DIME Detroit?
DIME Detroit vocalist, Alison Wiercioch, performs at a DIME student showcase.
It took Ali Wiercioch one day to know that her education and her future started at DIME Detroit.
“I could just tell there was nothing else like the people here, their passion and their excitement,” said Ali, an aspiring vocalist and songwriter. “I saw that they cared about everyone as an individual and that it would be a great place to grow and learn.”
Ali’s impression of DIME Detroit came together during the first day of a summer course that followed a disappointing year at a musical theatre school in New York City after her high school graduation.
Three years later, Ali is set to be among DIME Detroit’s first graduating class and embark on a career with complete understanding of the music business.
“I wanted to be a part of something, and I knew I could do it here,” said Ali, who grew up in Howell and for two years made the daily one-hour commute to Detroit to attend DIME Detroit.
DIME Detroit drum student, Jonathon Staten, practices with his class.
That ambition and drive to make a difference also compelled Jonathon Staten, who is studying drum performance, to commit to DIME Detroit. Staten, originally from Macomb County, met the instructors, including Head of Drums Eric “Rain Man” Gaston, and was inspired. Gaston’s professional credits have had him on national tours with Charlie Wilson and Big Sean among others.
“They’re laying the foundation for you and building you as a musician, as a businessman and as person,” Staten said. “They want you to be as great as you can become, and the thing is, they’ve lived it. They’re doing it now themselves. There’s no better way to learn than from those that are in it.”
Staten said he grew up in the church and he remembers feeling the same sense of camaraderie when he met other students in the drum program. It was an instant brotherhood, he said.
“We’re all pushing each other to be better and to be leaders,” Staten said. “That’s a great feeling and you know you have to be a part of it.”
For information about degree programs available at DIME Detroit, click here!
ATTN Incoming Students! Are you on time? Recommended deadlines for financial aid and scholarships are approaching!
For more information on how to get started with your applications, click here!
Click here to see the latest on S.T.E.A.M.y Winter Events!
DETROIT – January 27, 2017 – Detroit Public Schools Community District and major partners from the city’s largest and most exciting arts and scientific museums and venues took the temperature of Detroit this winter and collectively agreed that it’s S.T.E.A.M.y — with S.T.E.A.M. standing for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics!
On Friday, the district and supportive partners announced a series of free, fun and exciting events with a S.T.E.A.M. theme to engage DPSCD families in learning activities after school hours at the participating venues and at well-known family-friendly spots, including the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Institute of Arts, Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit, Belle Isle Nature Center, Michigan Science Center, Detroit Public Library, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Eastern Market and The Rink at Campus Martius Park. Other partnering organizations include Downtown Detroit Partnership, Detroit Public Television, detroitpbskids.org, and the Detroit Public Schools Foundation.
“We are pleased to partner with so many of the city’s most prominent Arts and Science museums, as well as family centered venues to create this extraordinary set of experiences for our current and prospective students,” said Alycia Meriweather, DPSCD Interim Superintendent.
Many of the events will be open to the public, thanks to the partnering organizations. Some events will be specifically for invited DPSCD/EAA students that selected educators will choose based their display of S.T.E.A.M. ingenuity. Those students – called DPSCD S.T.E.A.M.-gineers – and a family member will receive special invitations. In cases where there are a limited number of slots for an event, DPSCD will make available a small number of free tickets for prospective students. Details on how to RSVP for events with a limited number of tickets will be available within one week at detroitk12.org/enroll.
The partners overwhelmingly chimed in with their support.
“Art is critical to helping children and families connect to our shared history and understand creative problem solving,” said Salvador Salort-Pons, Director of the Detroit Institute of Arts. “We are thrilled to be able to devote a day to demonstrating to DPSCD students and families the many ways that art and science intersect.”
“DIME takes community outreach work seriously, and embraces every opportunity to support and contribute to the development of Detroit’s music communities. We believe that contemporary popular music is a valid and valuable field of study, and that the modern music business offers varied and exciting careers for those who have the right skills and knowledge. Studying at DIME enables students to acquire the skills which are necessary for sustainable long term careers,” said Karl Middleton Head of Institute. “Our event on March 5th offers aspiring, young musicians the chance to attend a variety of informative, introductory classes and gain insight into DIME’s unique approach to music education.”
“At the Michigan Science Center, we believe that all children and all communities should have access to STEM experiences that spark their curiosity and encourage imagination,” said Dr. Tonya Matthews, president and CEO, Michigan Science Center. “Our newest IMAX® film, Dream Big, offers the perfect opportunity to inspire DPSCD students and their families. The film reveals how a diverse group of engineers is pushing the limits of innovation, proving that STEM is for everyone.”
“As part of our commitment to offering incredible musical experiences for all members of our community, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra is always seeking ways to be an advocate for Detroit students,” said DSO President and CEO Anne Parsons. “This partnership with DPSCD is the perfect opportunity to join with our arts and science colleagues and create an unforgettable series of events for Detroit families.”
“We are committed to providing unique learning opportunities that lead to the appreciation and stewardship of wildlife and wild places,” said Ron Kagan, executive director and CEO of the Detroit Zoological Society. “We are pleased to be working with our community partners in sharing authentic and meaningful STEAM-based educational experiences for our youth.”
“The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History is thrilled to be part of this DPSCD partnership. Today’s learners are tomorrow’s leaders. This robust cultural collaboration makes learning STEAM exciting and unforgettable. We look forward to welcoming participants to the Wright Museum,” said LaNesha DeBardelaben, Senior Vice President of Education & Exhibitions, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
“We are excited to support this effort because it only strengthens our ability to be in the community and amplify the work we’ve been doing with parents and educators,” said Tara Hardy, DPTV’s Education Specialist. “We are committed to our mission of engaging children in learning through our programming and various initiatives such as Digital Adventure and the new Detroit PBS KIDS 24/7 Channel.”
Amy Corle, MOCAD’s Curator of Education and Public Engagement, says that “MOCAD’s newest exhibition, The Architectural Imagination, is filled with perfect examples of how Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics intersect in the real world. We’re excited to show students and their families some of the wonderful possibilities that can happen when S.T.E.A.M skills and unlimited imagination are combined.”
“The Detroit Public Library will joyfully continue to support and encourage the Detroit Public Schools Community District families through fun and engaging S.T.E.A.M. events,” stated Atiim J. Funchess, Assistant Director for Marketing & Communications, The Detroit Public Library.
“The DPS Foundation is proud to support the district’s S.T.E.A.M.y Series of events,” said Pamela Moore, President and CEO of the DPS Foundation. It’s part of the mission of the Foundation to support S.T.E.A.M. in education and career pathways, and we have directed hundreds of thousands of dollars in supportive grants to initiatives that support Science, Tech, Engineering, Arts and Math in our schools! We highly encourage industry and community partners to reach out to us to see how you, too, can make a difference by supporting our students through donations to the Foundation.”
*Belle Isle Nature Center
176 Lakeside Drive, Detroit, 48207
Family-Friendly Birds and Bees Event
Saturday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Free Public event
Family-friendly Valentine’s event on “love” in nature with music, photography, bird seed and “bee mine” crafts and zookeeper talks on bird conservation & U.S. Forest Service. Nature Ambassador Joe Reilly concert at 2 p.m.
*Detroit Public Library – Main Library
5201 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, 48202
Concert: An Evening with Daniel Washington
Wednesday, Feb. 15, 7- 9 p.m.
Free Public Event
The DPL presents the 73rd Annual E. Azalia Hackley Collection Concert, “An Evening with Daniel Washington.” Dr. Daniel Washington, Professor of Voice at the University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, & Dance, has performed at the world’s major opera houses and concert stages.
*Michigan Science Center
5020 John R St, Detroit, 48202
Sunday, Feb. 19, 1 p.m., 3 p.m.
Dream Big IMAX® film
Limited free admission for prospective DPSCD students
Select DPSCD/EAA students will receive exclusive free access to visit the Michigan Science Center and view the new IMAX® film – Dream Big: Engineering Our World. One hundred limited free admissions available for prospective DPSCD students. First come, first served; RSVP details to be at detroitk12.org/enroll beginning February 1.
*Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit – MOCAD
4454 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48201
Contemporary Interactive Art Experience
Saturday, Feb. 18, noon
Free Public Event
The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit invites DPSCD students and their families to view The Architectural Imagination, an exhibition featuring drawings and models of imaginary buildings designed for real locations in Detroit (a lot in Mexicantown, a riverfront post office, parcels along the Dequindre Cut, and the Packard Plant) and to design their own dream buildings using their imaginations and the inspirational materials provided.
*Drew Farm at Drew Transition Center
9600 Wyoming Ave, Detroit, 48204
Starry Night at Drew Farm
Friday, Feb. 24, 6-8 p.m.
Free Public Event with RSVP
DPSCD Office of School Nutrition and Garden Collaborative offer a “Starry Night at Drew.” Event includes a cooking demo, healthy snacks, nature walk and bird feeder crafts at Drew Farms. RSVP required. Please call 313-651-3457 or email garden.program@detroitk12.org to reserve.
*Detroit Symphony Orchestra, atrium
3711 Woodward Avenue Detroit, 48201
Concert and Activities: “Star Wars at the Max”
Saturday, Feb. 25, noon-1:30 p.m.
Limited free tickets for prospective DPSCD students
Tots to middle school students experience a Star Wars performance by a small ensemble of DSO Musicians, plus art and music making activities. Star Wars costumes welcomed. Limited free public tickets for prospective DPSCD students. RSVP at detroitk12.org/enroll beginning February 1.
*Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
315 East Warren Ave, Detroit, 48201
“Meet the Scientist Saturday”
Saturday, Feb. 25, 2-4 p.m.
Free Public Event
Curious students, young Einsteins, or future tech wizards who are always thinking of the next big thing are invited to discover and explore science with activities led by scientists and technologists with the hands-on exhibit, Inspiring Minds: African Americans in Science and Technology! Visit the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History for “Meet the Scientist Saturday” featuring David Head & Dr. Terrance Dillard on Saturday, February 25, 2017 from 2-4 p.m.
*The Rink at Campus Martius Park
800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48226
DPSCD Robotics on Ice
Sunday, Feb. 26, 10 a.m.
Free Public Viewing Event
DPSCD showcases a “Robotics on Ice” competition with invited DPSCD students at 10 a.m. Public is invited to view. Families can engage in Chess in the Park activities, sample cherry slurpies by DPSCD nutrition staff.
*Detroit Institute of Arts
5200 Woodward Ave, Detroit, 48202
“Get S.T.E.A.M.ed at the DIA”
Saturday, March 4, 11 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Free Public Event
Discover “Science Behind the Art,” a virtual field trip produced by DPTV, on the science of the DIA’s Conservation Lab; investigate technologies and innovations of ancient civilization; Career talk by Andrea Montiel De Shuman, Digital Experience Designer; Gallery games, drop-in workshops and more.
*Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME)
1265 Griswold St, Detroit, 48226
DIME for a Dime
Sunday, March 5, noon-3 p.m.
Limited Free Public Tickets for prospective DPSCD students
One-day event where students aged 12-19 can attend up to four 30-minute classes with the industry-professional faculty of DIME Detroit. Subject areas covered are guitar, bass, drums, vocals, songwriting and music business. Students rotate between designated classrooms. Very limited free tickets for prospective DPSCD students. Reserve at detroitk12.org/enroll beginning February 1.
*Eastern Market, Shed 3
DPSCD “All Schools” S.T.E.A.M. Showcase
2934 Russell Street MI 48207
April 2, noon-3 p.m.
Free Public Event
Discover “Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math” S.TE.A.M. events with representatives of every DPSCD school. Give-aways! Science, tech and agricultural arts demonstrations. Learn about tuition-free Montessori, foreign language immersion and more.
DIME is looking for a full-time Marketing, Events and Guests Manager for it’s Detroit location.
This is a broad role, primarily focused on Marketing, Press liaison, and the management of DIME’s social media platforms and website content.
The post holder will have excellent communication, prioritization and organizational skills and have significant demonstrable experience in leading on the development and execution of creative, innovative marketing campaigns across a variety of platforms.
Additionally, the post holder will have experience of delivering projects to a high standard, on tight deadlines.
Click here to view the full Marketing, Events and Guests Manager Job Description
If you or someone you know is interested in applying for this position, please send your cover letter and resume to Brittany Linville at brittanylinville@dime-detroit.com
DIME Presents is a new night dedicated to showcasing artists and bands from DIME and the Detroit area.
Join us for our very first event on February 16th at 6:30pm in The Underground @ DIME
All ages are welcome! FREE and open to the public.
Only at DIME!
