Talented Musicians Will Perform at Dutch Fork HS

By: Robert S. Jackson, Ed.S., Assistant Principal for Instruction

It is an incredible experience when a school can connect instructional content with the arts so students can see the fullness of the academic program. To be honest, through many programs, this is a common place for Dutch Fork High. What makes this a rare occasion is that this performance will feature two of the premier young musicians in America. On Friday February 28, 2011, Violinist Daniel Davis and Saxophonist Devone Gary will be performing for our students.

These two young artists - Daniel D, urban violinist, and Devone Gary, saxophonist, will inspire and encourage our students during a morning performance that will hopefully lead them to explore and work hard on their own talents.

Violinist Daniel D is a 2009 Apollo Theater Winner, Spotlight Performer on B.E.T.'s 106 & Park, and has performed for President Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Larry King and the late Michael Jackson.

Saxophonist Devone Gary is accomplished in both alto and soprano sax. His musical performances include mainstream and contemporary jazz, R&B, pop, soul, hip-hop, and inspirational.

Daniel Davis

Daniel is a twenty-two year old entertainer that discovered the violin at 12 years-old. Now a seasoned musician, Daniel has performed for President Obama, Oprah Winfrey, Larry King, and the late, legendary "king of pop", Michael Jackson. Raised in Charleston, South Carolina, Daniel graduated from that city's esteemed School of the Arts in 2007. Daniel also studied at New York's Julliard School of Music, while still in high school.

In 2009, Daniel was sought out to open for Jamie Fox and Kanye West on B.E.T's 106 & Park. He was later asked to do a spotlight performance for 106 & Park, and won first place at the World Famous Apollo Theater that same night. He has produced several CD's and books. Daniel's faith lies at the core of his music. Despite his success, Daniel remains a humble young man. He is the first to tell you that the pure joy of playing music far surpasses the prestige and recognition. "Every opportunity to play offers new enlightenment and a chance to learn. I love performing and playing - period."

Devone Gary

Saxophonist Devone Gary has developed his skills over the past 20 years to become a true professional. Originally from Charleston, SC, he gained interest in music as a member of the Oakbrook Middle School Band at age 14. Accomplished in both Alto and Soprano Sax, his repertoire covers an expansive range from mainstream and Contemporary Jazz to R&B, Pop, Soul, Hip-Hop, and Inspirational.

His first solo, "Amazing Grace" was when he first realized that his talent would place a leading role in his life. His artistic flair and passion is expressed and appreciated by those who have experienced his performance. More notably, his talent has availed opportunities to share the same stage with world-renowned artists such as Ben Tankard, Chris Bethel, and Phil Driscoll, to name a few.

Both Daniel and Devone are featured in the New Band, Urban Instrumentalist. We are indeed honored and excited that these two incredible musicians have carved out a little time out of their busy schedules to show our students how to maxmize their talents to reach their full potential. The performance is part of our African American History month series. The performance starts at 8:30am and 10:00am in the Dutch Fork High School auditorium. Admission is free.