 Nothing like a little fun in Auburn to make everyone happy. Remember our overall theme is artistry. We are not trying to take over the world as photographers. We are just trying to exemplify the many mediums of art.
Over the last few weeks Mike and I have had the opportunity to take the girls out for some family time and it was much needed. We had the opportunity to take a few photos of the girls and start playing with the idea of photography. I already new Mike had the talent for creating life memories thanks to the work he did honoring my Dad, so another idea is born and we hope you enjoy.
Beginning in April 2012, Mike and Kelli are beginning services in developing video slideshows, as well as candid/lifestyle/wedding photography and event videography. Please visit this site often over next month to view updates on pricing and packages.
As I stated in a previous post Rhythm and Beans was born finally because of a chance opportunity. Mike had always used the R&B stamp as his copyright on his publications. For a brief time we were more of a publishing company, or a better term, engraving service for young and upcoming musicians.
Our first engraved product was for our eight year old niece after she had completed her first piano composition. She had drafted the piece out on a legal pad and had no idea that a few weeks later, Uncle Mike would help create her first publication. We still have a copy of the "Pink Poodle" and we are reminded everyday that not everyone masters everything. So, to stay true to our philosophy that everyone should have access and the idea of artistry and creativity, we run an engraving services for a nominal fee. During the engraving process the artists work is edited and compiled to meet publication guidelines. We also provide support on self publication and the copyright process. We offer a variety of musical services for a nominal fee. Our goal is to help all students and programs gain access to valuable instruction. All programs are not created equally, nor are all programs funded. It is a sad state of affairs and once again this is something that we believe strongly in, that all students' should be able to have access. Like I said in the previous statement, not all programs are created equally. Today, because of the economy and the constant struggle to prove the value of music and arts in the classroom, not all programs can afford extra staff to help when camp rolls around.
Mike started off as the only staff member of his first high school band ten years ago. We understand the frustration and the desire to help students reach full potential. Rhythm and Beans offers affordable music compositions to fit any band, as well as drill writing and show design. We offer consultations, private lessons, and many times we have just been the sounding board to help show concepts develop. This business is about the love of teaching and instilling artistry and creativity into every student. The staff at Rhythm and Beans has a variety of expertise, from small town bands to large college ensembles we have instructors and products to fit your needs. Please explore our website for more So Mike and I are teachers by trade. Mike is currently the assistant band director and percussion guru for Benjamin Russell High School. I am currently working as the Response to Instruction/Behavior Interventionist for Central Middle School.
Mike and I got into teaching because of our passion for teaching. Well, that's how we got into the game. Mike and I vary on why we have stayed in the game and what it means to each of us. Mike feels like he has been called to teach. If he could bang on a drum all day, he would. If he could stand in front of a line and let them bang on a drum all day, well that would be his slice of heaven. No, Mike wants all children to have his same passion and desire for all things music related. He wants them to love it and live it, and then if we're lucky go out and teach it. I know it's pretty simple, but until you've had Mike into teach a camp, or had him as a colleague, his passion for music and teaching is like no other. I on the other hand fell into education. I never realized when I started in the ECEC program at Samford that nine years later I would still love it. My passion is children's rights and being their advocate. I really don't want to leave any one behind in this crazy world and I believe with persistence I can reach anyone and help anyone get to their goal. I know it's corny and silly and you're ready to stop reading, but, this was what I was called to do. I thought I would be a professional musician, but then when I got to college I realized I could pursue my passion and answer my calling all at the same time. So, artistry and creativity everyday, impacting as many lives as possible everyday. Yup, it's corny as all get out, but Mike and I have always been a little crazy. Rhythm and Beans came from an idea Mike had with his obsession, coffee. Our friends always expect me so say music, you know since that's Mike's day job. Nope, it came out of his obsession with coffee and where he was going to get his next cup from. As the conversation grew that fateful day when it was just "Beans" or "Coffee Beans" or any other java joe names you can think of Mike started thinking about how he wanted to incorporate music into his post teaching career, and that folks is where we get the rhythm.
Over the last ten years Rhythm and Beans has been on every piece of copyrighted music that Mike has produced. Every score that has made it to the publication page has been published through Rhythm and Beans. Then on fateful day, by sheer luck and love I might add, Mike's first big break came from Samford University. Dr. Grant Dalton (when he was still just GBD) called to say he needed some assistance and Mike's first full time writing gig was born. Samford needed some drum parts, and we needed the cash, so born officially in the summer of 2003 was Rhythm and Beans Publishing. Mike had the name for over a year and I needed something to call the new bank account (What? I'm the practical one). So, our business was born and since then Samford has helped so supply our steady summer income. From Samford, Mike had the opportunity to write for Oklahoma State University, and Texas Tech . Mike has also had the pleasure of producing some pieces for Cullman High School, Haleyville High School, Leeds High School, Beulah High School, Bixby High School, Moody High School, Benjamin Russell High School, and Parrish High School, just to name a few. Like all music majors Mike learned about arranging and writing when he was in undergraduate and graduate school, but for him it is a passion. My favorite moment was when the Oklahoma State University Percussion Ensemble played an original piece that Mike composed on a whim. Most composition majors have this as a claim to fame as well, but, I know he's my husband and I'm biased, but his work is pretty amazing. So this is how the arranging and publishing side of the business was born. Mike following his passion of drumming and writing everyday. There are very few nights that I don't find him behind a set of headphones strumming out something on the keyboard, all for the name of music education and artistry. Slowly and surely we have been making changes. Mike and I have thought long and hard about how we want to impact the world, and now you can help us.
Mike's dream of owning a coffee shop and a publishing company are slowly coming true. My dream of recognizing creativity and artistry throughout our daily lives is starting to wear off on Mike. No, wait, Mike's dream of recognizing creativity and artistry is wearing off on me. Either way a change is about to come. So slowly, but surely you will see the new Rhythm and Beans. |
