These are some of the amazing feedback emails we have received since the 2008 Event!
From: Vendor Chris and Debbie SeeQ Radio
Debbie and I want to thank you for the wonderful event you created this last weekend. Please keep you chin up regarding the attendance of the event. We are at a critical time in this new industry, we have built this now they will come. We are doing everything we can from our end to get the main stream recognition of this ganra of music. I really belive that along with Richard and Sue that the BRANDING of the product is the critical point to allow the growth and be able to reach the mass to share the wonders and blessings of all the artists. We are looking forward our next meeting, sorry we were unable to make it to the gathering at your home. We had a concert to be at last night and time just didn't allow for us to be there. Again thank you and all at Harmonizing with Humanity for the wonderful event.
Love and Blessings
Chris and Debbie
SeeQ Radio
come listen to the music !
From: Vendor Tom Averna http://www.ncreview.com/ncradio http://www.ncradio.us
I am so sorry I couldn’t make it to your dinner, but the thought of starting my nine hour drive back home at 9:30 after being up since 4 am was a little too daunting. Still, I want to thank you for making my experience there wonderful. Please extend my thanks to everyone else who made Harmonizing an incredible event. I will be running a thank you spot this week, which will also be promoting the running of my artist interviews next week from 5pm to 6pm all week. I hope I can stay in touch with you for future events or for anything else I can help you with. It was so good to meet you.
In Joy
Tom Averna, Manager
NC Radio
From: Vendor Rev. Annette L. Lake www.OneVibrationRadio.org
How cool it was for me and I loved meeting all the wonderful people!
Thank you sooo much for including me in this delightful event!
Love and joy to all!
From: Volunteer Peter
To have lots of people experiencing Positive Music and having healing and transformational experiences...and just have some fun!!!
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
Yes. HOwever there were not "lots of people"
Exceeded? no
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
enjoying the music and the musicians more than I thought I would and seeing a shooting star!
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
I want to help get the word out so that more people can experience and enjoy positive music.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
to see humanity harmonize with positive music(Positive Music already harmonizes with Humanity!)
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
In Spired
Love,
Peter
From: Attendee Valerie
I am still marveling at my experience today! (and mine was only one day!)
You did it!!! You made a huge difference in so many lives! and the inspiration of the weekend will forever live in each person's heart!
Look at the new friendships, partnerships, and love that was created this weekend.
Ya know, I was there a mere 30 minutes when I could already see and feel what you accomplished! and how many people you touched who will take that out across the country and spread to so many more! Your drop in our pond has sent huge waves across the country and probably the world!
I so much love knowing and experiencing you!!
I also would love to help you with next years event. (I have a few ideas to get going)
From: Attendee Sherry
I was totally transformed by the beautiful, magical and energetic coming together of kindred spirits. Thank you is so inadequate, so may all of the love and energy you put into this event be multiplied a thousand fold!
Namaste, Sherry, Soul mom
From: Attendee Will
The festival was a convenient way to spend some time with friends that were going to be there. I wasn't interested in the festival as such and didn't expect much. Music isn't my thing. I brought 4 books, lots of pens and a new spiral binder to fill in the time while others were listening to music.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
I didn't open a single book or write a single line other than contact information. Part of the reason was that there was a lot of time to talk with both old and new friends, but also to participate in the festival. So, I would have to say "Greatly Exceeded"
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
Music.
Over the weekend I listened to at least 40 songs by various artists, all good, every single one, cried with every song from Saturday night until late Sunday afternoon. Heavy tears, not just little drops now and then. Heart tears. Beautiful.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
The format of the festival worked perfectly for me. I can't conceive of another format that might have worked better.
I went knowing that I don't feel music. I am a visual and words guy. Give me a video or at least some stills and a lot of words, but none of this music stuff. Music is okay in an elevator, but give me something visual if you want me to feel something.
I was able to be myself and pretty much ignore the music Friday night and much of Saturday. But, by Saturday night, they got through. They: the performance artists, the sound, lighting and production artists, the volunteers, artists in their own way without whom it couldn't have happen, all playing and singing and each individual contributing their effort. Over three days, they so got through. Not a single individual or group, but everyone, the amazing result of a truly unique combined effort.
I believe that the format of the festival allowed the artists and their music to get through my blocks partially because they weren't performing for an audience, or at least not for a normal audience. There wasn't one. They were performing for each other. They shared their hopes, their dreams, their disappointments, their losses, and their successes. They shared themselves and their stories with every song. They were being real and, to me, this is different from performances I have experienced in the past. Through their reality they reached a part of me that has been blocked for a long time.
The heart tears?
The best way to describe them is a lifetime of tears coming out because the music is getting in. Tears from every time I blocked a song and didn't allow it to touch me. Am I am just allergic to music? No. The same external symptoms, but an allergic reaction feels nothing like this in my heart. Not sadness, just heart tears. Not good or bad, but strong and deep, and wonderful, and there because of Harmonizing with Humanity. Thank you.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
I would love to have a similar experience in the future. I would love to know there was an event I could attend with so many people sharing and being open.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Life Changing
From: Attendee Rebecca
I went into the weekend expecting to get exposure to a lot of great music and great people.
I knew this was the first conference and the first always has a fair share of bumps and bruises.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
They were definitely met.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
I did not expect to be so far out in the desert or to experience the evening concerts to take place outdoors...both were marvelous surprises.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
Indescribably so.
I left the weekend more understanding of my personal draw to music, particularly inspirational music and the drive to move myself into a place to share this with the world. It added fuel, and direction, to my current state of drive towards being a vessel of delivering this type of music, inspiration, and positive way of being to the world.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
As I mentioned to you, I could see there eventually being a Harmonizing for Humanity twice a year, one on each coast. At the very least you would have to alternate once a year between the east and the west. Personally I noticed a lot of little details that happen at first time conferences. These included, not enough volunteers (or noticeable volunteers) to help guests with questions, unclear directions for the guests to know where things were happening, appropriate placement of workshops to minimize interference. It may also help to restructure the workshops and the live cafe so that the guests can attend more workshops and the music is spread out evenly over the weekend rather than being put all together in the course of 24 hours.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Exhilarating and Enriching
Love and Light,
Becca
From: Attendee Lisa
Have you been able to take in all that was created last weekend?...I know you and many people helped make the Harmonizing with Humanity Event what it was.....AMAZING!!!
I am still buzzing around from the energy of the event....There were 'Life moments' that occurred for me last weekend.....
I would be honored and over joyed to be able to help out with whatever you need....I see your vision and know that as we gather together.... IT WILL BE SO...Positive music for a Positive Planet.....Peace within / Peace all around....
Thank you so much for your email and sharing your love & light...
Many Blessing
Namaste
Love Lisa
From: Attendee Cathy
I just wanted to thank you for hosting us in your beautiful home, and for working so hard to make this past weeekend the magical, mind-blowing musical immersion that it was. Even though not what we expected, I think in some ways we all got something more--more intimate, more heart-opening, more powerful, and hopefully, more productive in terms of visualizing, planning and manifesting our future!
Thank you, thank you, thank you--for your support, your graciousness, and your unwavering faith in us all.
I look forward to seeing you in Florida.
Peace & Love,
CathyFrom: Artist LeRoy White http://www.leroywhite.com/ 
Thank you God! Yes it has taken a couple of days to regroup, so much went on in such a short period of time last week-end. That coast to coast thing, that time change thing...boy. Anyhow that paled in the light of everyone's love and energy. I want to thank everyone, seen and unseen who showed up. For a first time event it went smoothly. The great task is making it look easy for the ones we all serve. Even the times when I went behind the scenes encountering the organizers, the sound crew, the transportation crew, the volunteers, everyone was there to serve. Everyone at the golf course and even the hotel made it easy to do what one came to do. It doesn't go that well in most cases. What I found was the absence of ego, the abundance of spirit, and the joy in knowing this was a ground breaking event that paved the way for a new creative experience to be shared with everyone near and far.
I didn't know what to expect, all I knew was I was asked to participate in something I felt was a first. And that my peers were going to try to stand together to make a change. I prayed we would stay focused, and love would be the point. Well it was more than I could have asked for. We got the job done! The dye has been cast and the colors are beautiful,powerful and blessed. Was I inspired? Yes very much so, inspired and hopeful, and grateful. This might sound corny but as you know I'm not one who cares that much about what one might say . But I feel more than ever something is changing on this planet. And I'm part of it. The best of humanity is rising upward and I'm honored that our creative gifts are merging in the service of the one. I think this is going to grow into bigger events and spread across this planet. This is the right time for things like last week-end to be birthed in, everyone is ready for the next move......this is it, no doubt!
So in closing I'd like to send my love unending to you Jodi..God bless all of your dream time. Thank you for your gift of manifesting. My open heart gives thanks to you Bates, to Mark, Scott, Joe , Randy, Mike and his crew, and all the volunteers. And I'm so very proud of my musician family. You know what they say about musicians.....well we proved that old adage wrong. We are a loving caring sharing community. Aware of our duty to serve and elevate the consciousness of humanity by the gifts we've been given. Thank you everyone!
Jah's Love Eternal, LeRoy
p.s. what I'm I crazy? Big shout outs to Richard Mekdeci, Sue K. Riley, and Scott Johnson. Bringing it all together Baby!
From: Artist Elaine Silver http://www.elainesilver.com/
Listen to Elane Silver's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
OK. Here are my impressions of the event:
1. What were your expectations about this weekend?
Mostly to make contacts for future success in this field, and always to attract green energy to fuel this ministry.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
Yes and no. We had hoped for more people, but found it wonderful to get to know the ONES who were present.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
I am used to going to "Love Fests" with many open hearts and loving minds. I think it took Chuck by surprise. He loved it.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
I have been sending out more emails and preparing for my tours. I have a renewed sense of inspiration!
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
To Infinity and Beyond! As well as a few hit records!
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Music and Appreciation
Thanks and much much love from Sarasota,
Faerie Elaine of the Silver Stream of Consciousness :-D
From: Artist Marcy Baruch http://www.MarcyBaruch.com/ 
It's the caboose, here. Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh.... What a weekend it was being with you. I had no idea what was in store. Thank you, thank you, thank you for the space, the love, the joy and the opportunity to step into an experience of such life-affirming magnitude. I can echo so much of what others have said. To the whole team of people that put this together (Bates, Mark, Jodi, Jay, Lea & Gary, Chef Joe, Randy and anyone else), YOU BLOW ME AWAY and I hope you all slept in... LATE... on Monday morning, not to mention Tuesday through at least Thursday as well.
1. What were your expectations about this weekend?
Leading up to the weekend, my expectations were not all that concrete and not even necessarily conscious, but I can tell you that they were narrower and lower on the vibrational frequency spectrum in comparison to what my experience actually became. The reasons for this occurrence seemed to exist on two levels: On the first level was simply my own lack of firsthand experience with most of you and what yo do. With the exception of working some with Scott Johnson and the PMA, I simply had not yet met / immersed myself in / been adopted into this extraordinary community of artists, organizers, organizations etc. I had none of my own experiential reference points and found myself craving a flow chart to keep straight who was who, what organization they headed or were a part of etc. With many of the artists, I think I had impressions that were once or twice removed. Perhaps I'd sung a song or two at church or in other communal settings or heard someone else's impression. Even in going to websites and trying to get a sense, there's just no substitute for the real thing. Because my information on these important fronts had thus far been derivative, my enthusiasm and desire to be passionate and connected prior to the event were not quite knowing where or how to land. Again, I simply didn't have my own personally tangible reference points.
On the second level (and coupled with my non-knowingness), because the branding of the event had not quite come into its 'Ta-Da!!!' brilliance and its best, most cohesive representation, I didn't quite know how to grasp/understand it myself nor promote exactly what it was I was going to be doing. The reality of what I actually walked into was completely and effectively fantastic and in the light of this actual experience, my previous and unconscious expectations were (embarrassingly, now...) revealed as going something like this: I would go sing at an event with a number of heart-in-a-very-good-place people who were doing really good things. I would enjoy parts of it and possibly be annoyed by the parts that would feel like the expression of platitudes over substance and the desire to do good over the desire and capacity to be powerfully effective. I would come home thinking, 'That was nice. Could have been so much more. What am I doing when I get up tomorrow?'
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
NO! Because they were so wrong! Exceeded? Yes! Yes! Yes! I love it when I am wrong!
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
The absolute professionalism and smooth-running of the whole weekend. Now, I know some of you organizers are laughing because if you were an organizer, I know there were things that were choppy and all of that.... That being said, it is a testament to you that as an artist, I didn't feel any of that. I felt so very, very appreciated, taken care of, supported.... When I arrived at the hotel and saw the 'Welcome Harmonizing With Humanity' banner and the signs on the vans, I knew in that moment that this was going to be a world class event. My experience remained in that impressed and blown-away place throughout the duration of the weekend. Being welcomed at the greeting table in the lobby, realizing just the tip of the iceberg in terms of the extent of all of the details that were attended to in anticipation of our arrival.... wow.... you guys really nailed it in classy, creative, thoughtful ways. All of the things you had to think through so that the space you desired to create could hold the most potential for excellence left me in awe and deeply appreciating and respecting your commitment and love. The volunteers were simply awesome as well. I can't tell you the number of times people would approach me and ask me of there was anything I needed, anything they could do for me.... Wow. It just felt extraordinarily loving and intentional... and powerful. Everyone just seemed On Board. It was so great to show up and feel the power of the current and jump on in.
The other thing that was unexpected was my experience of people's individual and collective authenticity. I felt like I was moving in a great big OM space. I didn't feel impenetrable edges, tension, defenses, needs to prove... I felt like so many people were receiving a big old drink of clean, fresh water that was good for the body and good for the soul. What I didn't realize was the significance of the need in so many people's experience for this weekend to occur. To touch, hear, see, feel the people and the artistry and the hearts of those for whom this energy, this music, this path, this essence is so valuable... and to experience so many dynamic people and pieces in the same place at the same time... THIS was tremendously effective in my now being able to speak with confidence and promote it next year.
Throughout the weekend, I heard over and over things like, 'It is so good to be in the same place at the same time... I've always heard about so-and-so, but now I'm finally getting to meet / see / hear her/him.' Again, there is just no substitute for the real thing and though we can stay 'connected' technologically, that method, to me, only feels sustainable through the foundation of human and experiential connection which this weekend provided. Moving forward, in how I might work with any of you in the future, I can do so with the confidence of knowing who you are and feel good about connecting my fan base and community as well. And this is how movements move...
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
Everything I spoke of in #3 inspired, motivated and moved me. Additionally, I think I can let go of my fear/judgments of things that might be coined by phrases that include words like 'positive,' 'harmony,' etc. Having grown up in the neurotically 'put a smile on your face and pretend' Christian / alcoholic family environments, it was very important to me in my recovery that the expression of all feelings, life experiences and thoughts both within myself and in all people around the globe be given voice. I left all organized religion for many years and was slowly wooed into a Religious Science Church four years ago where I began to heal into the vastness of the All-ness that is God or whatever one wants to call it. The All-ness of me began to come back, but I'm still very sensitive to modalities of thought and collectives that mean well, but are more about denying out of fear of what may be wrong, uncomfortable, etc as opposed to naming the messiness or injustice and still choosing to connect bravely with that which is more powerful.
I didn't feel the thickness of neurotic optimism at this event. I didn't cringe at platitudes expressed superficially. Oh my god, I got to be around authentic, incredibly powerful people who were both kind and brilliant, edgy and soft, totally put together and totally messy, well-meaning and well-functioning... I felt at home. I really felt at home. I returned to Denver saying to friends, 'Hey guess what? I found some more of my people!!!'
In the wide expanse of possible human expression, and particularly in people coming from a place of not being able to have their own thoughts, feeling able to say, 'This sucks' brings the very freedom of choice to go deeper, choose higher and then bring something healing, something living and of value to a situation, person or dynamic. If the allowance of this authenticity, this all-ness, is the place from which we can choose to bring something that brings more good, more life, then words like 'positive' and 'harmony' no longer remain words that are synonymous with 'smile and don't actually think about what is going on.' I feel healed. I feel bigger and more full of breath than before March 28th. The power that lies below the phrases and is the livingness of them... This is what I endeavor to be and seek more of in my experiences with others and in my joining with them to bring and receive something of deep value to ourselves and the world.
I am honored and humbled in the opportunity to be a positive force who brings something that unites people in the harmony of what is most real and full of love. Thank you to all of you for showing up as these things in your own multi-faceted uniqueness. Your presences were beautiful, real, powerful and heartening.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
Go baby, Go! Just Go! I get it now. I am already telling people about next year.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Authentically delightful.
From: Artist Susan Kay Wyatt http://www.susankaywaytt.com/
Listen to Susan kay Wyatt's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
Well, I have the most difficult time writing when my heart is overwhelmed and I feel that no words can describe my joy. Harmonizing with Humanity is one of those moments for me. I am so grateful for everything you put together and the amazing team of people who not only made it all possible but made me feel honored beyond belief. In dreams awake. Sending you love and gratitude!
1. What were your expectations about this weekend?
I had no expectations. I've learned not to... But if I did they would have been exceeded.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
yep
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
A sense of peace. I am in a place of clarity about my work and my life and this weekend was me showing up in my authenticity. It was a joy to experience all of the amazing talent and know that we all are doing our part to be our greatest selves in expression. It is what we were born to do. And we are all approaching it from a different place. Just as humanity is. And there is a place for each style and message. AND somehow they all work together.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
It inspired me to continue doing what I do knowing I can't do anything else. It made me feel grateful for the opportunity I have to do what I do and be supported by my husband and daughter and my family and now my extended 'Harmonizing' family. I have a truly blessed life in so many ways and this was an amazing gift.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
I really don't know. But I have been holding a vision of concerts in stadiums filled with people. I believe that popular radio as we know it will be transformed. I remember listening to radio as a kid that had all of these styles on one station. It was cool stuff and I fell in love with what I wanted to be a part of. History does repeat itself and this music and message is coming into its time. We do need a few stealth artists who can break through the mainstream sound and bring the rest with. I have always believed it is an inside job. We don't need to be separate from the positive music of Sting, Melissa Ethridge, and others. Positive music is already out there...If we can create a marketing company that can break an artist through... then we create a space for more.
More oneness... more healing.....more peace...... more love.... more celebrating.... I couldn't begin to tell you how to do what you do so well and can see for yourself what you would do in the future. That is what you are amazing at. I would love for my positive Polly Anna Music to find the people who crave what I write.
My purpose is to instill positive self esteem in children through reaching their parents with my music and message. This includes small children and all people still finding themselves....My other purpose is to celebrate oneness in the world by honoring all paths to spirituality and happiness and peace. This is my life's work. This I am very clear about. Each child and parent i reach is one step closer .... one more person who won't need to stay in darkness for not knowing the truth about themselves.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Grateful and overwhelmed with emotion.
From: Artist Spring http://www.springmusic.net
Listen to Spring's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
To hear new music, share my music and commune with the "posi" community learning more about what is possible.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
They were exceeded. :-)
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you? 4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
Nice intimate moments of really getting to know artists one by one.
Real people with real lives and stories full of richness and compassion.
Hearts were present and I could see how much the artists love making music and doing what they do. I saw committment and dedication.
I was awed by the huge support that artists gave each when on stage, despite long hours. I enjoyed the diversity of styles very much. It kept me entertained and inspired.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
Some specific ideas...
1) Location closer to sleeping quarters (you all did a GREAT job with the shuttles, though, thank you! )
2) Harmonizing for Humanity store, including their own fundraising products, like T-shirts as well as a general "store" for all artists' products so cash is not floating all over the place, and artists are not juggling their performing, table manning, networking and listening to other artists.
3) No live performances during mealtimes - nice time for a break to talk without feeling rude to "scheduled performers." Play CDs of artists with a "now playing" sign in the store or put together a compilation CD of all artists and play that during breaks.
WHAT I THOUGHT WAS GREAT...
Concert under the stars ~ breathtaking!
Soundman Mike Abdishi -- Awesome, great attitude!
Having radio people/interview opportunities on site.
Shuttles and transportations generously provided.
The flawless adjusting/flexibility to changes in schedule, etc during the event.
The undying calmness & positive attitude of all volunteers, organizers and behind the scenes people.
Having our gear and luggage transported.
Camaraderie of artists, team playing, supporting, willingness to pitch in.
The undying posi spirit and generosity of Ms. Jodi Floyd!
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Supported and Encouraged
Peace and positive vibrations,
Spring
From: Artist Gerald White http://www.geraldwhitemusic.com/
Listen to Gerald White's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
I couldn't agree more with what Faith has so wonderfully expressed! The weekend was inspiring, uplifting, energizing, rewarding and a nice getaway from the mad LA traffic.(-;
Quite honestly I didn't know what to expect. It was my first time to a conference like this one and the first time for me to get out in several years and start sharing my talent again. What was unexpected was the amount of humbleness and support I found in each of you all weekend. Working in Hollywood can sometimes jade you and it was a great reminder that there are MANY out there with hearts for healing the world one song at the time.
I was motivated to say the least!! Your warm welcome reached the depths of my soul and I appreciate every smile, handshake and positive thought that came my way.
I see this as just the beginning. I don't know quite yet if our name is the right name but non the less, I believe that what we are trying to accomplish is going to a the most bright light in the world. As I expressed in the Sunday workshop, excellence will prevail and that, added with the fact that our aim is to heal and uplift, will make the way that is needed for our music to be heard everywhere.
The two words that describe my weekend? OH WOW!
Jodi and the gang, you are so fantastic. I am encouraged by all you guys put into this wonderful event. Thank YOU.
And FAITH RIVERA......you are my inspiration. A leader in this community and one of the reasons I was there. You and Nolan are beacons of light and I see you high above the clouds.
Until Next Time..........
From: Artist Teri Wilder http://www.teriwilder.com
Listen to Teri Wilder's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
To connect and share with fellow musicians, and to spread some positive music to the masses!
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
The sharing with musicians was exceeded! I do believe that all the right people attended, and there will be more in the upcoming years. Word about this event will spread, and we can all be grateful for our chance to serve and inspire, as well as receive the same.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
I agree with Faith regarding the allergy experiences that showed up. I had a similar response, and just knew that it was part of an adventure.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
As I mentioned above, the depths of inspiration from this weekend has infused so many other parts of my life this week, which I now feel to be a part of me. It didn't occur to me that I would come home feeling so expanded, and even peaceful about my part in the world. Kind of a calm confirming and knowing that this is truly my right path. And that may be due in part to experiencing so many others showing up with the same genuine desires to create a better world.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
I would love to see this be an annual event (I can't imagine otherwise!). If there were a way to bring the venue and the lodging closer together, that'd be wonderful. It was just a little confusing with the workshops. It wasn't so clear as to who was being addressed - artists or audience. The collaboration of EmPower & JourneyMates was powerful, and I can envision that union making this into something bigger, like on a national level.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Energized & Inspired (& Grateful... & Humbled... & Moved... & Joyful... & ......) And Richard Mekdici's two words are: Posi Music!!!
Hugs & Love,
teri
From: Artist Eric Hansen http://erichansen.net
Listen to Eric Hansen's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
I had no idea of what to expect. I was going to be part of and to add my voice and support to this new venture.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
It seemed to me that the folks who did all the organizing did a truly an amazing job. I was only there Saturday, but it was very well put together and we are lucky to have them.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
The venue was lovely, but just too darned far away. It’s hard enough to get participants to attend these things without the remote location.
With Folk Alliance conferences, the artists by far outweigh the venues or bookers. It’s sad but true. It’s a constant issue.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
It’s hard to beat beautiful music as the sun goes down and then watching the stars.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
Well, it’s like…what is it? Is it a festival, a conference? What is it and what do we expect it to do? I can’t quite put my finger on it. All of the artists are out here I the world singing this music wherever they can.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Lovely.
From: Artist Harold Payne http://www.positivemusic.com/
Listen to Harold Payne's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
Thanks for summing things up so eloquently, Richard & the rest of you. Although more specific observations will be forthcoming, as requested I"m still basking in the glow of a weekend that was one giant communal hug.
My two word response describing the weekend would be Inspired & Humbled. The camaraderie, the level of talent, the way everyone rooted for & performed with each other & the absence of diva & divo-ness :) really made it soar. Most of all, though, the unconditional, indefatigable support by the organizers & volunteers was amazing. It was beyond expectations for a first time, ground breaking event. And on first blush, I'd say posi is a strong contender.
Thank you to all for the incredible experience.
with love and gratitude,
Harold
From: Artist Faith Rivera http://www.faithrivera.com/
Listen to Faith Rivera's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
My expectation was to be moved, re-energized by this mass meeting of empowering music-makers & the powerful people that love what we do & put everything on the line for our benefit :)
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
Yes
Singing/dancing/connecting/partying under the desert sky & stars was magical beyond compare!
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
Weird allergy/dry throat that made for an "interesting" time performing & made the whole weekend even more rich an experience. I had to sing Sunday & Monday as well by accepting my vocal imperfections/limits & surrendering to spirit.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
I got that people are moved by authenticity & being in the present moment with joy & power, with or without the perfect vocal technique or skilled musicianship. I learned even more the power of our friendship & support for one another. It wows me sometimes cuz we're always on the road seemingly on our own & to come to a gathering & experience true connection, admiration, love & support from fellow artists is so nurturing & moving.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
I think there are two directions we could go...one would be to hone in on the marketing terms/vibe as well as improve upon the logistics so that the public will be magnetized & drawn to fill the seats to capacity & in so doing, create a money-generating venture to support PMA & ITOI/Empower & us artists -or- for us to create a weekend conference for us artists & really create the space & time for us to have workshops/ meetings that support our work/mission in the world. Wondering if Richard/Sue's Mega-Posi Awards & Concert in Sept may be a time for us to plan something for us artists... maybe we all come in Saturday or stay Tuesday morning to have our big pow-wow?
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Inspired & Ignited
From: Artist Gina Citoli http://www.ginacitoli.net/
Listen to Gina Citoli's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
I came to see what others were doing and to connect with people of like heart, spirit and mind and to begin creating a new musical movement.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
They were met beyond measure!!! Not only was every artist exceptional but everyone I met were all incredible beings!! The support and enthusiasm by everyone the artist and organizers alike was fantastic!
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
I am with Faith on the dry throat as it got me right in the middle of a song. I was kind of freaked out as I had to do my one-woman show on Sunday and was wondering how I was going to do. Not sure I ever encounter such difficulty.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
To stretch myself further and to go out and spread the word about what we are doing. I am being moved to write an article about this event and the genre and send it to my local media. When I get it done I will send it to you all...
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
I like what Faith said about getting together in Sept and staying a couple days to brainstorm, as we need to get organized for this to keep growing.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Awed And Grateful
From: Artist Derrik Jordan http://www.derrikjordan.com
Listen to Derrik Jordan's interview by Tom Averna of New Consciousness Radio done at the event.
To hear some great music and meet some great people.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
Greatly exceeded.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
I didn't expect to be so accepted by so many so easily.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
It makes me want to write songs again!
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
Do another one with great promo and get some butts in the seats, as they say.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Welcomed and loved.
From: Artist Lori & Robert of Devotion http://www.devotionsings.com/ 
1. What were your expectations about this weekend?
Our expection was to connect, give our gifts, be of service and learn.
2. Were they met? Exceeded?
Yes. Yes. Beautiful desert, beautiful souls, beautiful music.
3. What was unexpected that showed up for you?
The peaceful experience of the gathering. No stress for us. Just joy.
The common ground of choosing love as a way of life.
4. How did the experience of this weekend inspire, motivate, and/or move you?
We were inspired by the power of support & co-creation; motivated by the level of creativity & commitment; and moved at how grace flows.
5. Where would you like to see this go at this point?
1) Improved marketing to reach as many of the 'posi' organizations/people as possible; also as much of the (liberal?) public as possible.
2) A more localized venue to better draw more attendees and to better support musicians/speakers.
3) A little more time for un-hurried workshops, concerts, and musician brainstorming/processing.
6. Lastly, please give me a two word response that describes the weekend for you.
Honoring vision - Being seen
In light & joy,
Lori & Robert / Devotion
