We recently connected with Jason Currin and have shared our conversation below.
Jason, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
As the Director of Community Engagement for Thrive Upstate, the largest disability service provider in Upstate South Carolina, I lead an initiative called, “Drumming Up Awareness”. Originally a single day event, DUA has grown to encompass a variety of classes, workshops, performances, and other rhythmic offerings year-round. Not only are events fun and engaging, but they serve a larger purpose: to educate, strengthen community connections, and foster awareness and empathy for those living with a disability.
This work is important to me because I understand what it’s like to be the underdog, swimming against the current. I have found a lifetime of joy in making music and I want to help others to share in this awesome form of self-expression.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I have a background in music. I graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. Music has given me the opportunity to travel the world, make new friends, learn new customs and ideas, and support my family. The first half of my career was focused on becoming the best musician I could be- performing, touring, recording, and composing. As I matured, my focus shifted to education. I wanted others to be able to enjoy the same gifts music brought me. Of course I had to be different, too, so I created unique curriculum and other scholastic offerings to fill gaps in traditional music programs. I made it my mission to use percussion as the vehicle to help others grow, connect, share, and inspire. In 2015, I consolidated all my teaching into one school when I opened DRUM Percussion Studio, the most comprehensive teaching studio of its kind in Greenville, SC. Through DPS I began working with Thrive Upstate, teaching adults with intellectual disabilities. Eight years of burning the candle at both ends eventually led me to close DPS and focus on serving those with disabilities and special needs. As Director of Community Engagement at Thrive Upstate I work to increase awareness and presence through large-scale events & partnerships that promote the talent and artistry of the individuals we serve while expanding our network of supporters & resources throughout the region.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me it’s all about the act of creating something from nothing. Whether it’s writing a new piece of music, devising a solution to a problem, or fostering awareness and empathy for a marginalized group of people. I take pride in knowing that I played a small role in moving things forward and improving a situation.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
I am driven by an insatiable desire to improve. To improve myself, those around me, and my surroundings. This is not something I chose (in fact, it’s more of an impediment), but I’ve learned to channel this impulse to create unique work that is both relevant and memorable.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://thriveupstate.org
- Instagram: thriveupstate
- Facebook: thriveupstate
Image Credits
Carter Tippins
Jason Currin