TMEA Conference in San Antonio

Posted on February 15, 2012 by chrisdiaz

For the first time, this year, I attended the TMEA (Texas Music Educators Association) Annual Conference in San Antonio, TX.  Being only an hour away in Austin made it somewhat of an inconvenient commute, but when I arrived, I knew that it was all worth it.  The best way I could describe the venders area would be as guitar center times 1,000.  Every single instrument, whether band, classical, or digital was there, and lots of new products that I had never seen.  I imagined that it would be something like NAMM, but with a focus on EVERY single thing musical possible.  So many different string producers, horn makers, and drums.  There were software programs designed to let marching band directors plan their marching plans on basketball courts and football fields.  There were automated vehicles for handicap musicians.  It was inspiring to see so many different things that could provide so many different ideas as an educator.  I also decided to sign up for TAME (Texas Association of Mariachi Educators).  I hope to have as much information as possible ready to go when I graduate, so that I may start a program wherever I land.  There were so many clinics that I couldnt even begin to try to see them all.  I sat in on a few, and went on looking at all of the products and technology available.  I got a lot of cool ideas that Im going to take with me, and no matter where I live, Im thinking this will be an annual trip for me from now on.

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Back to work…

Posted on January 25, 2012 by chrisdiaz

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over, I find myself back in Austin, TX finishing up my final semester of my masters degree. It seems like only yesterday I was compiling all of my application materials, I cant believe that it is almost over.  School work and music work seem to never be finished, but then again, if you like what you do it really isnt that big of a deal.  Along with one more semester of school, I also have a lot of exciting things going on with my music.  My band and I will be performing this Saturday, January 28 at The Bone in Deep Ellum.  If you havent had a chance to see us live, you really should come out and hear some great musicians.  Also, as the year progresses, we are setting up a lot more concert events and even have something slated for SXSW here in a couple of months.  As the details come to me, I will definitely pass them along to you.  The winter break was nice and definitely helped me recharge, but now that it is over, I cant wait to get back on top of all my personal projects.

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Live in Concert!

Posted on November 28, 2011 by chrisdiaz

Just wanted to let everyone know that my next live performance has been scheduled.  It will be at the Liquid Lounge in Deep Ellum on December 16th @ 8:30pm.  The cover is $10 for those who are 21 and older, while those who are 17-21 have a $15 fee.  Come on out and enjoy some great live music, pick up a CD, and take some time to meet me and my band.  I hope to see everybody out there that didnt make the last one.

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Mariachi concert

Posted on November 21, 2011 by chrisdiaz

This weekend I had the opportunity to perform with the UT Mariachi ensemble.  Although we have done several performances before, this one was different.  This concert was to be performed on the center of the floor at the Frank Erwin Center (other wise knows as “The Drum” or where the UT basketball team plays).  Now, it wasnt a concert setting or anything like that, as the floor was open to the event and the seats were empty, but it was pretty cool walking down the ramp to the floor and imagining all of the amazing artists who must have walked that ramp before.  We were carrying our instruments and taking the same path that legends had.  When I got to the court, I stopped, and looked up at all those seats.  I was trying to imagine what it would feel like to fill an arena of that size with fans wanting to hear my music.  The gig may have been small, and the audience limited, but the experience of playing in the middle of such a massive venue was amazing.  It inspired me to work harder, and do everything I can to reach my dreams.

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The reviews are in!!!

Posted on November 16, 2011 by chrisdiaz

I just wanted to let my fans know what the industry is saying about my new album, “The Ride Home”:

“With his unique musical style which blends classic 70’s and 80’s singer/songwriter fare and 90’s R&B with a modern twist and a slick pop sense, he should have no problem breaking through to the mainstream.  It also helps that his thoughtful, soul baring lyrics are sincere and honest without settling for the usual fake-sounding pop music clichés.”

“Chris Diaz is a skilled songwriter and he pulls from classic songwriters of the past on “I Think Of You” with Beatles-esque melodies, an Elton John-like vocal, along with a Billy Joel-like command over the piano, while paying homage to these great artists without relying on pastiche or clichés.”

“As many musicians are these days, Chris Diaz is flying under the radar.  Given the chance though, his smooth and inviting voice and the memorable piano-led songwriting showcased on his new album The Ride Home should garner him the attention he deserves.”

–Justin Kreitzer

“What perhaps is most unique about Diaz’s release is his effortless ability to portray every emotion imaginable. Whether it’s heartache, the death of a loved one, or questioning life’s existence he makes it easy for most to relate.”

–Annie Reuter

“The music of Chris Diaz is infectious.”

–Gary Hill

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