Sketches Of Influence Tour 2020
Hello and Welcome,
My name is Joe Barna. I’m a drummer, composer, bandleader, father and dreamer. In 2009 I started a project very close my heart called Sketches Of Influence. It began as a one night musical tribute to those in my life I love dearly. Now, 11 years later, it has become my purpose in life.
What is Sketches Of Influence?
It’s a compositional tribute to all the incredible individuals along my journey who have had an impact on me both as a man and musician. From teachers, to family members, close friends, band members and beyond, each song I write is a musical reflection on how these influences helped shape my mind and spirit.
What is the purpose for this fundraiser?
Over the past 11 years there are many obstacles that have made it nearly impossible to move forward presenting these tributes to a larger audience. Personal injuries, the passing of close family members, illness, having a beautiful daughter, homelessness, financial barriers and more. Each time I’ve been confident and courageous enough to attempt putting together a tour there has been a major roadblock that seemingly crushed my efforts. At 44 years of age, with 1,000s of performances under my belt and with what is now over 150 musical tributes put to paper I’m more than ever determined to honor my potential and provide a better life than I had for my child.
In March of 2020 my group Sketches Of Influence will embark on its very first tour, concluding with a live recording during a 2 night stint headlining at the most prestigious live jazz venue in Charlotte NC, Middle C Jazz. The tour will kick off with a party in my home town of Troy, NY at Lucas Confectionery on Monday, March 9th. Following this engagement the band featuring Stacy Dillard (saxophone) Davis Whitfield (piano) Otto Gardner (bass) and myself will then perform at The Beanrunner outside of NYC. The morning after this show we fly to Raleigh/Durham NC to headline at C Grace Jazz where we will stay overnight. The next morning we will drive our rental car to Charlotte and setup for a 3 day stay that will serve as both a showcase for my band as well as a live recording. On March 16th we will fly back to NYC and prepare ourselves for what is to come in the near future.
To say this one week journey of music, friendship and family will be expensive is an understatement. Although we will be compensated for our performances the travel, rentals, food, flights and self produced recording expenses will fall solely on myself.
In the past, before I was a father, I’d simply max out credit cards, sell my possessions, borrow from family or whatever else I needed to do to follow my dreams and keep musicians working. It wasn’t a situation I’m proud of, but as a bandleader I owe it to my musicians to treat them with kindness, respect and pay them as they deserve. This comes with many sacrifices. However, now as a parent to a beautiful 4 year old daughter I can no longer put myself in a position to let her down.
It has been 11 very difficult years that have seen my father pass away, my family torn apart, I’ve suffered from painful injuries that have taken music away from me temporarily and have been through a digestive illness that landed me in the hospital many times. I don’t know what’s coming up next, but I’m motivated and determined to get this message of love and dedication to those who have supported me out into the world.
Will you please help us?
In my estimation the total costs for this one week of touring plus the recording will be in the range of $10,000-12,000 dollars.
So, why would I only set my goal at $5,000?
It’s hard and somewhat embarrassing to ask people, many of which we don’t really know, for money. There are people hurting all over the world who need assistance that can barely take care of themselves. To some my project may not seem important or relevant. But, I assure you there is beauty and meaning behind every song, note and performance. I believe this music can heal. I know it already has based on
the responses I receive on a regular basis.
This project has been my entire life for 11 years. It has consumed me, giving meaning to my journey and a relief from daily life to so many others who desperately needed it. My dream is to help people in need of positivity to feel that uplifting, inspiring and hopeful feeling that so many others have provided me. I want my daughter to know me as a man who gave life all he had. Not only to music, but also to her.
Will you help me?
Thank you so much for taking the time out of your busy life to read these words. Even if you are unable to help please know that I love you and hope to one day play my music for you.
With Passion and Persistence.....
Joe
