Darius Brooks Organizes Summer Camp for Teen Singers

From Chicago’s ABC 7 News:

The continuing street violence in Chicago has prompted Gospel recording star Darius Brooks to organize a special summer program for teens who love to sing.

Grammy, Stellar and Dove Award Winner, Brooks is hosting the SDM Jam Session Music Camp. Brooks’ non-profit organization, SDM, is sponsoring the week-long music and empowerment camp from August 11-15 at Rainbow Push for teens 14-17 years old.

The camp will offer vocal training, personal development, college resources and career development. Brooks will conduct daily ensemble singing sessions with students.

“Growing up on the west side of Chicago with fourteen sisters and brothers, my anti-violence initiative was my love for music. I spent most of my time singing and playing the piano,” says Brooks. “My urgency to develop this program was sparked by the growing number of young people killed by violent crimes in Chicago this year alone. Our youth need motivation, support, and an opportunity to believe in themselves.” says Brooks.

The five day music camp will be in session from 9:00 am – 4:00 p.m. daily and include master sessions and lectures by noted music industry professionals throughout the week. Jam Session will culminate in a concert on Friday, August 15, featuring Darius Brooks & Jam Session’s talented youth. During the finale concert, one Jam Session student will be awarded a scholarship to attend UCLA’s Summer Institute (2009).

“An opportunity to pursue their passion for music and gain the skills and resources necessary to develop a clear educational and career plan for future success – that’s what Jam Session is about”, says Brooks.

SDM is a not-for-profit foundation aimed at nurturing, mentoring and training individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in music. SDM identifies and develops young talented vocalists and musicians from the Chicagoland area. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to provide educational enhancement programs through annual scholarships, career fairs, college fairs, and informational support to all students interested in the performing arts.

To learn more about SDM’s Jam Session, visit www.myspace.com/sdmjamsession or call 708.488-8500