RPA Music to release fourth studio album
Redmond Proficiency Academy High School students are set to release their fourth studio album, “The Ballad of Old Stringy,” on Friday, May 19. Named for an old, out of commission guitar that hangs in the RPA music room – affectionately referred to as “Old Stringy,” – the album was recorded on the RPA campus and features contributions from 15 music students mostly enrolled in the Music Laboratory class.
According to Music Director Jonathan Moore, the album is considered to be the most collaborative and student-owned collection of songs yet, with students writing, producing, designing and performing the entire body of work.
Seniors Vanya Crumrine and Vincenzo Barraco produced an opening prelude that sets the scene for the album and brings “Old Stringy” back to life. They were challenged to write a track that derived most of the sounds from the old and mostly defunct instrument. The album explores themes of nostalgia, legend and finding meaning in adversity.
Students will celebrate the album release with a Tiny Elevator Concert featuring live performances of tracks from the album on Friday, May 19. RPA Music will also host an album release party in the Music Room (E4) in the Evergreen building from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Music students, friends and fans are welcome to join for socializing, music and pizza.
“The Ballad of Old Stringy” will be available on Friday, May 19 on Bandcamp and YouTube.
