FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 10/17/05
Vineyard Haven, Mass.

College students from Florida to California converged on the island of Martha's Vineyard this semester to pursue life as a Rock star or a music business big wig. Greenville College 's own Kevin Maschmeier, Aria Eaton and Brooke Harris are among a select group of students chosen to take part in the Council for Christian Colleges & University's off-campus program at the Contemporary Music Center.

Martha's Vineyard Experience

Maschmeier is a singer/songwriter with influences ranging from American Folk music to Alt-Country, from Funk to old fashion Rock ‘n' Roll. He came to the CMC to help better explore his musical talents.

"I just want to tell a good story and have someone feel me. For me, honesty is important and that's what I think those who listen to my music deserve,” Maschmeier said.

Eaton also wants to pursue her musical abilities at the CMC. She writes passionate music with a folk-like edge infused with a little bit of country.

"I want to combine the truth and rawness of music with life in my songwriting,” Eaton said.

Harris is a music business major, with intentions to pursue a career in the music industry either in A&R, music publishing or artist management. 

"My passion is to be a part of the creation of great music, to promote talented artists and to get their music heard. This doesn't feel like a job to me. I am anxious to have a career in the music business,” Harris said.

The CMC is the nation's only artists' community dedicated to the making and marketing of contemporary music. It offers classes and hands-on experience in songwriting, recording, performing, artist management and marketing. Under the direction of Professor Warren Pettit (Greenville College, University of Miami, Royal Conservatory of Toronto) and music industry veteran Tom Willett (Epic Records/Sony Music, Word Records), the CMC offers students the use of four recording studios, music business offices and state-of-the-art equipment all housed on a 21-acre wooded property in the center of one of New England's most exclusive vacation destinations.

Outside of class, Eaton and Maschmeier split their time between the song writing studios, the rehearsal rooms and the main studio.

"Being at the CMC allows me to relax but there is an intense drive to push myself to discover who I am musically,” Maschmeier said.

Both have already performed at the CMC's Barn Studio Complex, and will be appearing in various clubs, theatres and churches throughout the semester. They are both currently working an album and a single to be released on a forthcoming compilation album on the New England indie label, 450 Records.

"The CMC is a great opportunity to really tap into the wisdom of musicians, both young and old, and experience the harsh, but thrilling realities of community,” Eaton said.

Harris provides insightful direction and support as the manager of a CMC artist as well as working as the director of publishing.

"The CMC allows you to be yourself and to figure out what you want to do with your life.  I can't think of any other place where you can live your dreams and completely immerse yourself in one of the only things that means the most to you in your life—music,” Harris said.

The CMC is one of eleven semester-away study programs created by the CCCU and BestSemester.com. Students may also attend programs in China, Russia, Egypt, Latin America, Australia, Uganda, Oxford, England, Washington, D.C. and Hollywood to explore the intersection of faith and culture in various disciplines.

For more information about the CMC or the CCCU's other programs, check out www.bestsemester.com.

CONTACT:
Alina Croall & Emily Kochon
Offshore Entertainment Group
PO Box 188
West Tisbury , MA 02575
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