Savannah Brady….My First Assignment!

When I was first approached about contributing some articles to The Sarasota Post about my experiences as a young musician in Sarasota I thought, cool!  Then, I quickly realized I would actually have to write which is not my idea of fun unless it’s song lyrics. After all, I do plenty of writing for school so I couldn’t think of any reason I would agree to waste my free time writing.   My mind was completely changed after watching Lauren Mitchell perform.

 Last night, I went to JR’S Old Packing House Cafe’ to listen to the fabulous Lauren Mitchell and her band. The place was packed with standing room only as the very tall and tan Lauren commanded the stage with her powerhouse vocals. Although, the audience was dining on an assortment of delicious looking foods, they were really eating up Lauren’s performance.
   
 Now a days no matter where you go everyone is looking at their phones. That wasn’t the case at The Old Packing House Cafe’. You can’t go to a LMB gig and sit back and relax because you’re in the show! It’s definitely high energy with a lot of audience participation.  I truthfully can say everyone had their eyes on Lauren. You feel like you’ve had a workout after going to see her. It’s better than the gym and way more fun!

Lauren has one of the best bands in Sarasota backing her up. Her keyboard player Mike “The Professor” Hensley  is a MONSTER! I mean that in a good way. That’s why I was totally shocked when Lauren invited me to sit in with her band. I am grateful to her for allowing me to play three songs with them on my violin. That was very kind and generous of her. I feel overjoyed that she took the time to think of me. All I can say is, “Wow!” If it was a dream, please don’t wake me up. The LMB is amazing!

I first met Lauren at Ladies Sing the Blues in March and became an instant fan! Not only did she draw me in with her incredible performance, but she came over to me later that night and introduced herself. We talked for quite a while about my goal of becoming a professional musician and made plans to get together one day and jam. She is super sweet.

If you get a chance to go see the LMB you MUST do it! You will never leave disappointed. Check out her website www.laurenmitchellband.com for a list of her shows. Also, like her page on Facebook and spread the word to all of your friends.

As I said before, I no longer dread writing. Now, I am excited about the opportunity to share my experiences with all of you. I’ll just have to convince my parents of the necessity of attending as many musical events as I possibly can. It’s the only way to do research for my article, right?

Photos By Mark Kracker & Jodie Brady

Savannah Brady’s Bio:
Savannah has studied violin for nine years and guitar for almost two years. Her violin teacher is Cynthia Wiley and her guitar teacher is Jimi Gee. She has attended several Suzuki Violin workshops and Sarasota Youth Orchestra’s Summer with the Symphony programs. Savannah enjoys playing music and tries to take advantage of every opportunity to perform. She has played violin with the North Port Symphony Orchestra, performed in Ladies Sing the Blues, and is a member of the Jimi Gee Jr. All-Stars. Savannah’s most recent accomplishment was receiving her third gold cup for earning superior scores at the district festival through the Florida Federation of Music Clubs. You can find Savannah playing and singing around the community at various venues.