Year 1 Commercial Songwriting student Violet is in her second semester here at DIME, and is already making waves with her grunge-inspired music. We asked her a few questions about her experiences as a songwriter, bandleader, and student in advance of her performance at our Live & Lyrical showcase, coming up on March 22.
What is your background and music education? What brought you to DIME?
I haven’t had any formal training or lessons. I taught myself to play guitar and sing. My first time singing and playing in front of someone besides my parents was when I auditioned for DIME. I certainly got a late start, but I’m not letting it hold me back. I came here because music is the only thing I like enough to go to school for it.
Who are some of your musical influences?
I have always been heavily influenced by grunge music, Radiohead and Elliot Smith. Recently I have been inspired by more modern bands/artists like Big Thief, HOMESHAKE, Timber Timbre and Beach House.
What can we expect to see from you at the Live & Lyrical Showcase?
Just me, an electric guitar, and my voice. The lyrics for the song, called “Sunspot”, are very special to me, and I hope to convey their meaning through a raw and intimate performance.
You often perform your original music with a backing band as Violet Viper and the Vertebrae. What has your experience been like as a bandleader and working with your fellow DIME students to arrange your songs?
Forming a band has been exciting, stressful, and rewarding, as well as one of the biggest learning experiences I have ever had. I’ve never played with other musicians before coming to DIME, and I am so lucky to have the bandmates that I do, and that I can call them my friends as well. Their intellectual input and developed skills have encouraged me to grow and improve as an overall musician. They make me better. I’m proud of what we’ve written in the past few months, and extremely optimistic for what the future holds.
How has your first year at DIME impacted your songwriting?
The education I’ve received just this first year has allowed me to combine technical skills and techniques that I otherwise may have never learned and weave them with my raw songwriting style. With the teaching I’ve received, I’ve been writing music that I’m proud of. My songs are still me, just more thought-out from new and different angles and perspectives.
Do you have any upcoming gigs outside of DIME?
Catch my band playing at Peacefest at LA Cafe in Waterford, MI June 8th!
Where do you see yourself after graduation?
Traveling to a far away country and hiding away in a cabin to be alone and write music.
What advice would you give to someone that’s considering studying at DIME Detroit?
Do it. Prepare for a lot of clichés in the following statement: It doesn’t matter what anyone else tells you, it matters what you feel. Go with your gut and follow your dream because in the end it is YOUR life and your choice. You will never know unless you try.
Make sure to catch Violet at the Live & Lyrical Showcase on Friday, March 22! More information can be found on the Facebook Event Page.
Our next semester begins on August 19 2019. Start your application for a Bachelors program in Guitar, Bass, Drums, Vocals, Songwriting or Music Industry Studies today!
No time to study for a full-time degree? Study individual classes for credit at DIME
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
