By: Princess Jones
After a semester of studying in a program designed to encourage musicians on campus, Madyson Williams, this year’s winning student, will perform a showcase this week.
Williams was the 2017 winner of the Trevecca School of Music and Worship Art’s Artist Development Incubator program. The program helps music student develop their artistic brand. At the end of the program, the student performs a showcase.
“It’s all been a learning experience and the showcase is just a small way to show what I’ve learned from this past semester in the program,” said Williams.
John Thompson the creator of the Incubator program, has seen Williams progress over the semesters.
“In Madyson’s case, I have had the chance to see her develop, not just over this semester, but over the last several semesters, and as the leader of Refuge, one of the school’s outreach bands, and as a worship leader in chapel. She has a sense of purpose and intentionality in her work that has come a long way this semester and I expect to really be on display during her showcase,” said Thompson.
Getting a band together is not an easy task. Williams had to get a band, arrange music, planning out details and logistics, and lots of rehearsing.
At times Williams does get nervous thinking about the showcase.
“I’m slightly nervous, but I know that I have a great band backing me up and I’m really confident in their abilities,” said Williams.
Encouragement is what brings Williams out of the nervousness.
“Knowing all of the people who are supporting and encouraging me and want me to succeed,” said Williams.
For Williams, the Incubator program has helped mature her music.
“I’ve learned a lot about the music business as well as writing during my time in the program. I think my music has matured over time both lyrically and musically,” said Williams.
The best reward for the showcase is being able to accomplish her performance.
“I think just knowing that I was able to do something like that. It’s definitely a scary thing to do, but it’s encouraging to know what you’ve accomplished afterwards,” said Williams
During the showcase, Williams will be playing original songs that have Folk/Americana style to them.
Thompson believes that Williams musical talents are flexible throughout styles.
“I will say that the growth I’ve heard in her work tapes and demos has been significant. Madyson has a strong ability to fit herself into a wide variety of musical styles, from pop to country to folk – even to rock. That is a great trait for the front-person of an outreach band like Refuge. Her own music, however, has really developed its own sense of individual identity,” said Williams.
Over the course of the Incubator program, Williams has enjoyed her experience. She believes that it’s a great opportunity and wants other students to have similar experiences.
“I would definitely encourage other students to apply for the incubator program in the future,” said Williams
Williams hopes that through her showcase her fans can see her growth.
“I hope they can see how I’ve grown as a writer and a performer over time. I’d love for them to feel inspired and encouraged by the songs they hear at the showcase,” said Williams
The showcase will be on Feb. 1 at 6 p.m. in Zelma Hall.
