The general consensus is that summer has arrived, meaning that the trademark Milwaukee street festivals, outdoor music and concerts will be plentiful in the coming months. Music has the ability to engage even the most introverted to participate in their communities. Music also fosters relationships and strengthens bonds, something Ex Fabula knows a lot about. This week we’ll hear from a storyteller about what it feels like to be heard and supported through music and then a story about fostering a community of like-minded individuals through punk music.
Our first story comes from a collaboration Ex Fabula did with 88NINE Radio Milwaukee’s Cultural Commons entitled “Music & Identity.” The night consisted of four storytellers who worked with Ex Fabula coaches and facilitators to produce thought-provoking stories about what music means to them. Kiran Vedula is a local musician, performer and educator whose mentor was a crucial influence on his musical practice. After receiving news that his mentor had passed away, Kiran describes their partnership and reminisces about recording sessions, bonding and growing. Kiran creates a vision of a particular song that came out of a quite memorable and special recording session with his mentor.
Next up from the “Perfect Storm” Slam at the Times Cinema, you’ll hear from Andy Parmann who, as a first time teller, describes putting on metal and punk music festivals and shows in the DIY (do it yourself) community. When he’s able to put on the sixth year of “Robot MoshFest” everything seems to be going swimmingly until a slew of freak outs happen, including an interview with the news and a questionable permit situation. After all is said and done, Andy talks about how this fiasco was much bigger than him and how it comprised of individuals who made and fostered a community:
