Today we’d like to introduce you to Darrian Ware.
Hi Darrian, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started playing guitar at the age of 17 at the tail end of my senior year of high school, having no experience in music what so ever. I began my freshman year at Miles College studying music performance, then later concentrating in jazz studies. In my experience, I received more guidance in the jazz studies than I did in performance thanks to my instructor Mr. Danny Harper. The music scene in Birmingham, Alabama, was nothing, but great to me. From playing and learning from outstanding musicians to being given the opportunity to play my first gig. In 2016 I took a break from school, but that didn’t stop me. I decided to take a chance and auditioned, and acquired a local church position as a lead guitarist where I learned musicianship, the value of good people, and how to play your part to create the perfect sound. Simultaneously as I was building my confidence at the church, I saw other opportunities in other places. I really enjoyed playing in local festivals in Atlanta and participating with various artists and musicians.
In my journey, learning about myself through my instrument has given me the confidence, and the acknowledgment of my inner value to radiate out others.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road to any place of value has its obstacles. When I initially started as a guitarist at the Miles College choir, I wasn’t considered the best guitar player, but I had potential. I had the feeling that the choir director lacked some confidence in my progress as a student. On different occasions, he requested to bring in a more experienced guitarist. It made me like I wasn’t needed, so I voluntarily resigned from the choir. From that moment on, I dedicated my time to perfecting my craft and I assured myself that I would be better than I was in that moment.
It was a deeply motivating truth.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a lead guitarist/composer/instructor. My discipline and work ethic have been a guiding light to how I carry myself as a musician and artist.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success is continuous dedication and willingness to put your selfishness aside at times, and a resolve to serve others and the community. I find success in demonstrating my practice into performance.
Pricing:
- 250/hr
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @soulchild_26
Image Credits
Jumoke Evans
