The Mir Manley Band was formed in the DC area during the early stages of the pandemic, and the instant chemistry of its members quickly thrust them on stage. Their sound is inspired by the richness of North and South American rock/folk music, R&B, blues, and jazz. The band stands out for its diverse background. Chilean vocalist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Mauro Mir, previously based in Germany and Spain, has had an international career performing in prestigious venues as a principal singer with Maryland Lyric Opera and Washington Opera. Co-founder guitarist/composer Dave Manley, originally from Detroit, has performed around the world with artists such as R&B legends Jill Scott and Prince. Bassist TJ Turqman and keyboardist Gena Photiadis are prolific musicians and songwriters in their own right, releasing several records together. Drummer Joe Palmer, alumni of the Berkeley College of Music, comes from a prestigious musical family and has performed and toured extensively. They are preparing a Christmas release of original material.
Events
In Nairobi, Kenya I worked with young photographers in the city’s Kibera slum, and started a photobook library for a weekly photography class.
In Takoma Park MD, I collaborated with Takoma Artery collective for a 'Climate Arts Cafe’ event.
I also hosted a music/visual arts series about harnessing the power of art in the climate crisis, against tyranny and war, and building community. We showcased and promoted the growth of a ‘future-arts’ movement and partnered with artists, groups, and organizations to find innovative ways to make a difference.
Viaduct Arts started as a house salon for local music and visual art with topical relevance, exploring topics like Mars, fracking, climate, social justice and others. When COVID shut that down, we moved to outdoor concerts in my driveway called Roadside Attractions, with socially-distanced audiences across the street. My driveway became a micro-local live music venue for the community. At the time, there was literally nowhere else to play in the DC area. We got city funding to pay honorariums to the otherwise out-of-work artists. RA had incredible sets by the likes of Yasmin Williams, who has since been featured in Rolling Stone and NY Times.
How can artists help in ways that are particular to art? Can art help shift the paradigm in ways that are needed? How can art/artists be leveraged for greatest impact?