Moving Music

PART 2

Hope through hopelessness can mean the difference between life and death. Those who give hope and help to others are among our best. “The Shawshank Redemption” is such a story. While poorly received in the theaters, it became the next year’s video rental hit. It rose to the top as the uplifting tale about one’s decision to “get busy living, or get busy dying”. A powerhouse script crafted from a Stephen King effort, this film defies the chains of despair and defines true freedom.

Joe Viers is the name I kept hearing. The stories of how he helped others realize their musical identity became commonplace. I had heard the results of his influential creations, but never really sat with the man. There are several local artistic gems this city offers, but none quite as unique as Mr. Viers. His pride is in the collaborative effort. Never seeking credit, he selflessly helps others realize their own voice and vision. It seems fitting that “The Shawshank Redemption” is his film. Moving Music is proud to offer this 2-part sit down with Columbus icon, Joe Viers.

TC

PART 1

Hope through hopelessness can mean the difference between life and death. Those who give hope and help to others are among our best. “The Shawshank Redemption” is such a story. While poorly received in the theaters, it became the next year’s video rental hit. It rose to the top as the uplifting tale about one’s decision to “get busy living, or get busy dying”. A powerhouse script crafted from a Stephen King effort, this film defies the chains of despair and defines true freedom.

Joe Viers is the name I kept hearing. The stories of how he helped others realize their musical identity became commonplace. I had heard the results of his influential creations, but never really sat with the man. There are several local artistic gems this city offers, but none quite as unique as Mr. Viers. His pride is in the collaborative effort. Never seeking credit, he selflessly helps others realize their own voice and vision. It seems fitting that “The Shawshank Redemption” is his film. Moving Music is proud to offer this 2-part sit down with Columbus icon, Joe Viers.

TC

1985 was the summer of MTV. The “Pepsi generation” celebrated the heat with Miami Vice, Live Aid, and an unprecedented number of music video styled films. Released on July 3rd, the music of “Back to the Future” had claimed its summer soundtrack role. With a mix of wondrous technology, pop music, and our fascination with time travel, this movie cemented its spot in ‘80s lore.

Robert McFarland is a child of the ‘80s. Like most teenagers, he couldn’t wait to watch MTV. The muscle of “The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and the 1950’s staple “Johnny B. Goode” assisted in Robert’s musical awareness. It planted the seed that years later would become his fantasy turned reality. With a collaborative spirit Robert brought fellow artists along for his own recorded journal. Simply titled “Rock N Roll”, his double album was crafted as a shared experience. Now, Robert McFarland reveals his ongoing connection to the film that moved him, “Back to the Future”.

TC

Martin Scorsese talked about film makers, at times, smuggling social messages within their work by artistic design. In 1997, Director Luc Besson crafted such an effort. ”The Fifth Element” flew under the radar and served a commentary purpose questioning war and corporate culture. Each viewing reveals a layer previously missed. Presented in a science fiction format, this movie does have many teachable and cautionary lessons.

Fort Hayes alumni are everywhere. We stick together, help each other, and come together often. Jennifer Milligan graduated three years before Ty and I, but “The Fort” kinship was undeniable as we discussed “The Fifth Element”. She lives, loves and plays music with her husband, Pascal, in France. We caught up with her during the American leg of her tour and this conversational journey is emotional and revealing. Moving Music is proud to bring you this inside glimpse of Jennifer Milligan.

TC

We continue our quest for what happens when we die with this episode. “The Crow” furthers my romance with the role of the revenant; a soul that was put down so brutally that it cannot rest until things are set right. Known for the tragic loss of actor/martial artist Brandon Lee during production, this film is eerie yet reassuring. If merciless cruelty befalls us as we pass, is it really possible to gain divine justice? This story explores that avenging fantasy that so many believe is possible.

Paul Cunningham is a name I kept hearing during our 1st year. His need for creative expression opened the media avenues of photography, film, and video in addition to music and sound. As I watched and listened to his art, I realized Paul’s talent must have a unique story behind it all. His personal music interest, and this film choice, told me his personal narrative straddled both pain and perseverance. Please join us as Paul reveals himself and his connection to “The Crow”.

TC

In the heat of the 1987 July sun, “The Lost Boys” came to the theater. Dripping with MTV swagger, it melted screens nationwide, while continuing a string of successful, ‘80’s music video influenced films. That same year, I had become a very pop culture aware future Ft. Hayes student. While flawed, as a pop vampire film, it has grown to iconic status with a soundtrack that bleeds. It’s a great ride, somewhat predictable, but cool as hell… or maybe even cooler.

What can I say, Ft. Hayes changed many lives. I have run into so many of my Ft. Hayes kin that I truly believe we are our own force. Jason Kroninger graduated after Ty Barnes and I, but we hold to the same ethic that is, well, Ft. Hayes. I have had many conversations with Jason over the years, but this is the first time on record. He is an amazing 2 and 3 dimensional artist. Providing a very unique, industry insider perspective on this film, Jason reveals his craft, as well as himself. Please sweat the heat of “The Lost Boys” with us.

TC

PART 2

Who hasn’t seen “The Sound of Music”? It’s on TV several times a year on multiple networks. In fact, this Sunday, it’s being re-released in the theaters. Did you sing the songs in school? Maybe you got a part in your High School play. What could be more iconic than this film etched into our memories? It defies introduction, so I won’t try. But, if you haven’t seen it, well you’ll want to after this episode.

I learn something with every interaction I have with Eric Gnezda. Somewhere in our minuscule time together he finds a way to bend my viewpoint on life. His writing, music, speaking, radio, and television background fascinates and inspires me. I know Ty Barnes feels this even more than I. As promised, we sit down with Eric to discuss the vision for “Songs at the Center” and his relationship with Ty, art, music, Stev Guyer, and this iconic film “The Sound of Music”.

TC

PART 1

Who hasn’t seen “The Sound of Music”? It’s on TV several times a year on multiple networks. In fact, this Sunday, it’s being re-released in the theaters. Did you sing the songs in school? Maybe you got a part in your High School play. What could be more iconic than this film etched into our memories? It defies introduction, so I won’t try. But, if you haven’t seen it, well you’ll want to after this episode.

I learn something with every interaction I have with Eric Gnezda. Somewhere in our minuscule time together he finds a way to bend my viewpoint on life. His writing, music, speaking, radio, and television background fascinates and inspires me. I know Ty Barnes feels this even more than I. As promised, we sit down with Eric to discuss the vision for “Songs at the Center” and his relationship with Ty, art, music, Stev Guyer, and this iconic film “The Sound of Music”.

TC

Every once in a while you see a movie that grabs you and burns its way through your mind. “Audition” is one of those films for me. I hadn’t seen it until now and I know I won’t forget it. It’s a Japanese love story that turns into a psychological thriller, which takes a horror twist, just to end up a love story at the end. Films like this don’t come around often, and this one leaves an imprint.

Jess Hanks is an artist with several platforms. He studied acting and spent the necessary time in New York City to learn and shape the craft. His vocal abilities are on display as one of the two singers for “The Martini Affair”. He also writes and plays original music. I first met him while celebrating the inaugural Moving Music release. When asked, Jess didn’t hesitate to name “Audition” as one of the movies that moved him. Please join us for a unique film and artist.

TC

Sometimes we find needed inspiration from the most simple of concepts. Music connects us. That is the comforting truth that the film “August Rush” carries. With an “Oliver Twist” like tale, we go through a child’s journey to find his parents, and the parent’s journey to find purpose.

In 2007, amid personal struggles, “August Rush” was a ray of hope and the positive motivation Shaun Booker needed to persevere. Since that time, Shaun has become an international artist and teaches the language of music to new students, young and old. It’s been over a year since our last Moving Music conversation, so we settled back, and dove into the movie that showed up for her just in time.

TC