OAK PARK, Mich. – A group of performing artists and producers are working to expand a program that gives Metro Detroit students greater access to music education and the music industry.
Producer and gospel recording artist Craig Mizell is collaborating with The Village on a program called Believe Big. The program works with local schools to help educate youth about the art of music.
“I believe music is the soundtrack for a lot of people’s lives,” said Mizell from the group’s studio in Oak Park on Friday (Jan. 19), as he debuted his newest single, “Big Big God.”
The team wants to expand the reach of Believe Big to more schools across Metro Detroit. The group said music programs are being taken out of some schools.
“I just started seeing how empowered they get about the creativity that comes along with music,” Mizell said. “They get so happy and excited.”
The Believe Big program offers special workshops, after-school sessions, and enrichment programming.
“I’m extremely optimistic,” said Brandon Fletcher-Rollins, CEO of The Village. “I think it gives kids an opportunity to really thrive in this music industry without having so many hiccups or bumps in the road without the knowledge and mentorship.”
The Village and its partners said they know the program could have a positive impact on youth. Their company started as an artist’s development hub where professionals thrive.
Over time, The Village has worked with various nationally known artists, producers, and collaborators who have ties to the Detroit area.
The team wants to pass its knowledge along to local children. They want to branch out to more schools across the Metro Detroit area.
“I believe that with the independent creatives that we have in Detroit, this program can be explosive,” Mizell said.
To learn more about Believe Big, you can contact Craig Mizell at www.myzealproductions.com or The Village through its social media platforms @thevillagedet.