Let's talk Research.
Research is what you do day and night while you do everything else. On an average day since I created this project, I have been researching the subjects of Thomas Chapin and his life, the world of jazz, the people I should talk to, and the business side of launching this film. I probably have spent almost 8 hours a day! Some in the morning, some in the afternoon, and a lot of it at night. Some of it in "dream" time.
Research, ie education, is a steep, vertical learning curve these days.
On Tuesday, May 15, I begin my first Research Trip. First? Yes, this is only one of many times I will have to leave my quiet, country-living in a cottage on the island of Kauai and head into the Big Cities where this story takes place. Mainly New York City. Where I will be meeting with some of the primary storytellers for the Thomas Chapin film. His brother Ted. His trio members, Mike and Mario. A high school class mate of Thomas, Arthur. John, a jazz festival promoter who brought Thomas to the big performing stages of jazz at Newport, RI and in Europe. Jerry, who played with Thomas in Lionel Hampton's band in the 1980's. Terri, Thomas' wife and partner for 10 years before he passed; she's my sister, a central storyteller for my film, and my host in NYC. And there are a few others important storytellers who I am still setting up appointments with.
This trip will also take me to Tuscon, Arizona, where I will meet and interview two other storytellers. Marty, who met Thomas toward the end, but saw enough to know how special a musician and person Thomas was. He advised Thomas in jazz business matters and holds, I think, a very important perspective on the timing of Thomas' passing. Interesting!! I will also meet up with young, next generation player, Nadar Nihal, who is an American studying spirituality and music in India. He knew Thomas only by listening to his music but was inspired to play his horn at Thomas' memorial on the 10th anniversary of Thomas' passing.
Also while in AZ, my dear friend Carmella will be hosting a fundraiser in hopes of adding to my Early Birds list of donors. (Have you thought about becoming an Early Bird? click here.)
Won't you follow my blog, and take this trip with me. I will be posting as I go. I will let you in on some of my Research findings and will be posting photos.