We caught up with the brilliant and insightful James Norkawich a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, James thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I first new that I wanted to pursue music professionally, is when I was exposed to jazz, jazz performance and MIDI composition classes in an after school program in the arts ( Regional Center For The Arts ) in high school. It opened a door to me in a field and style of music that I wasnt fully accustomed to, and from there on music became my life. I graduated from the program, i was awarded a 4 year scholarship in music for my undergraduate degree and then for my graduate degree as well. After that the doors opened in the field and i made sure that i was taking advantage of each and every opportunity I could in the music business. From playing to recording and even teaching, its my life.
James, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My inspirations at an early age began with my parents and my grandfather. My grandfather played the organ by ear but had 13 organs in the home. From the Hammond organ to the Conn spinet organ I first started playing and then eventually switched to the piano for a period of years. Eventually I started playing both and as I got older it led me to focus on my style and technique and from there i developed the skill set i needed that would get me through high school, college and beyond. From my early experiences, it helped me become a Composer, Arranger and Producer because I was now able to think out of the box and create something that had never been heard or done before and it gave me the ear training I needed to be able to take something that exists and transform it into something new. I always say music is the soundtrack of our lives so why not make it a good one, so having the proper training is key to being a good, but even better a great musician.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
Whats the most rewarding aspect of being an artist ? Well i would have to say is taking something, for example an idea, a small thought and developing it into a true work of art, and then having other share in your art and enjoy it more than you do. Its making a difference no matter how big or small. Its creating something different, original or taking something and re-creating for all to hear and enjoy.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Sure. In this industry there will always be competition and people who will try to knock you down, make you doubt yourself and even work with you and then try to sweep the floor with you and blacklist you from working with them. I have always believed to thy own self be true. Work hard, always keep your ideas fresh, keep them in a journal for a rainy day and believe in yourself and let God guide your way. Everyone in this world is different, each having a unique taste in music, movies etc.. Its really trying to stay on solid ground and be strong, stay confident and follow your heart. It will never mislead you.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jamesanorkawich.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesanorkawich/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JamesANorkawich
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-a-norkawich-287720240/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/JNorkawichMusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jamesanorkawich
Image Credits
Daria M Norkawich