(PRESS RELEASE)SDM Jam Session, a week-long music and empowerment day camp for teens 14-18. JAM Session was developed as an answer to the growing number of youth killed by violent crimes. Designed to provide a safe, nurturing environment for youth to escape the perils of the inner-city streets. Jam Session is an outlet to channel youth's passion for music and give them the knowledge and resources necessary for the advancement of their education and future.
In an ensemble setting, sopranos, altos and tenors are taught from a diverse mix of African-American music styles; including Negro spirituals, inspirational, and gospel music. Students receive the following: Vocal Training – Personal Development – College Resources – Career Development
SDM, Inc. is the not-for-profit, 501 c 3 foundation of Grammy, Stellar and Dove award winner, Darius Brooks. SDM is aimed at nurturing, mentoring and training individuals who are interested in pursuing careers in music. SDM identifies and develops young talented vocalists and musicians from the Chicago area.
Darius Brooks
After garnering Grammy, Stellar and Dove awards over his 25 years in the music industry, Darius Brooks founded JMG (Journey Music Group) in 1999. Darius Brooks, a man who has been one of Gospel's greatest driving; creative forces has an international reach that extends to Great Britain, Scandinavia, Italy, South Africa and Germany.
He has worked with Aretha Franklin, jazz legend Ramsey Lewis, the late Rev. Milton Brunson and the Thompson Community Singers, as well as, Shirley Caesar, Stevie Wonder, and Avant, to name but a few as either a songwriter, singer, accompanist, arranger or producer. Darius serves as musical director for Reverend Jesse Jackson's Rainbow PUSH and is now Pastoring his own church, Grace Central.
SDM Jam Session 2008 Recap
30 Students Attended
Geographic Info: 65% of students from the city of Chicago & 93% from Illinois
Scholarship Info: 47% of students attended Jam Session for free because of sponsorship and donations.
SDM Jam Session II (2009) Info
Students: High school, 14-18
5 Days: August 10-14, 2009
Daily: 9 am – 4 pm
Finale Concert: August 14, 2009
Location: Rainbow PUSH, 930 E. 50th Street, Chicago
Registration: $150 per child
Contact: 708-488-8500 phone
