The Peter Fox Project

Hey there,

So after a hiatus, today I was inspired to blog because I had to share a wonderful example of the arts community in DC.

His name is Peter Fox. Today is his birthday. I got to meet and perform with him while singing with the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington. That was back in 2007. And it was right when he was pivoting to pursue his music professionally. I remember talking to him about it, as the work he was in was not as fulfilling as his art was.

While Peter was already a pillar in the local arts & LGBT community, it was wonderful and inspiring to see him take that to the next level. Check out this clip from Aids Walk 2010, just a little over a couple of years ago:

It hasn't even been a year since he left us, gone too soon. He succumbed to cancer. And while he isn't here in body, his spirit is still with us, and his energy continues to change the world.

Friends set up a fundraiser, which you can support on Crowdrise, called the Peter Fox Project:

On January 2, 2012, we lost one of the most beautiful souls to have entered our lives. Peter Fox touched everyone he encountered, and we - his family, friends, and fans - have partnered up with the Sitar Arts Center to continue his love, light, and legacy. Peter has always wished he had began his music career sooner, so this partnership with Sitar is just and appropriate. 

This annual fundraising campaign aims to raise $30,000 each year to ensure that Peter's love for music will help underprivileged, artistic and musically gifted youth in Washington, DC continue their talents.

So whether you knew him or not, I hope you consider joining Team Peter and supporting the work of the Sitar Arts Center through this fund.

Peter: You are missed and loved,

- J Street Jr,

DC's Different Drummers

Hey,

So I can't think of a better way to kick-off the post-Intersections blogging than with the group that helped wrapped up the festival, DC's Different Drummers, with one of their ensemble groups, DC Swing!

As is my style, I won't try to say anything that isn't better said already:

In addition to creating fine music, our goals are to have fun, play with pride, work together, and educate others. Although we have differing backgrounds, experiences, talents and abilities, we share the goal of excellence in music.

I can say, from what I heard at the closing Tea Dance party, they certainly seem to be accomplishing their goals.

Here's another clip of their Marching Band participating in last week's DC Pride parade:

So definitely check out their website for more info, and like them on Facebook!

If you're interested in participating, check out each ensemble for instructions on how to contact 'em.  And if you're particularly interested in DCDD's Marching Band, they've got an open house coming up April 9th, so mark your calendar.

Also if you're interested in seeing an upcoming performance, mark March 31st on your calendar as well. Their Capital Pride Symphonic Band and Capital Pride Wind Ensemble will be at the Columbia Heights Education Campus for their spring concert, My Favorite Things!.

You can also keep track of them through two of our wonderful, local LGBT publications, Metro Weekly with the DCDD tag (I think there might be others, but this is the most recent one I found),  as well as Washington Blade's DC Different Drummers tag.

And if you ever want to really get to know an organization, get to know the leadership. I actually got to meet Matt Swearman, DCDD's president, at last Sunday's tea dance (can't believe it's already been a week), and WB's Joey DiGuglielmo did a piece profiling Matt last November, so definitely check out Queerty: Matt Swearman.

Also, hoping to get in touch with some of the musicians, as well as their special guest conductor, former Artistic Director, K. Scott Barker for the concert on the 31st, so keep an eye out for more blogs about this wonderful local community musical organization.

- J Street Jr