“My daughter, Victoria, and I have been playing music together since she was four or five years old; I would play guitar, and she would sing. I’ve been playing the guitar for about 25 years, and continue to play every week at church. However, drums happened to be my first instrument, which I played in church at the age of 12. During Victoria’s younger years, she and I would usually just play music at home, but eventually, she started to sing at the church where I was a worship leader. When Victoria was seven, she started to openly sing in front of others. We would take her to Fine Arts festivals where she would perform solos, and get the ability to grow more as a musician. I just love hearing my daughter sing, and be able to make songs independently. She has such a unique vocal tone that truly stands out. With music always standing as such a strong passion of mine, it’s been great to be able to share something so special. And not only with Victoria but with my entire family. My other daughter, Valerie, also sings and plays the bass, and my son, Emanuel, plays the drums. Getting the chance to play music with my loved ones is just one of my favorite things since it’s a great way to bond and grow connections with one another. Knowing we enjoy making music together, Victoria and I like to take our partnership beyond our home and church community. Last year was our first time being street performers. Being able to play music downtown Holland has given us new perspectives on things, and has brought us amazing opportunities. I remember, last summer while we were performing downtown, a random guy approached us and asked if we wanted to play at a private dinner party he was hosting. He lived in Fennville and ended up living in a mansion on the lake. Not only did we get the chance to perform at that party, but we were able to enjoy that great night overlooking Lake Michigan. Since we loved street performing so much, we’re planning on doing it again this summer, making our appearances downtown on Thursday nights,” Instructor Larry De Leon said.
