On December 11, 2015, Grammy award-winning guitarist André Frappier presented a workshop for music students at the Detroit Institute of Music Education (DIME). When young students asked him for his three top secrets to success, he instantly replied “Number 1, practice. Number 2, practice. Number 3, practice.” And then he added with a sly grin, “Easy to remember.”
André picked up his first guitar and started to take lessons when he was still a child here in Detroit. He started playing in venues that he was not old enough to frequent. The world-class guitarist then went on to tell the DIME students that during his 20s, he did not spend much time gigging but that he just played his instrument and honed his craft.
He has gone on to perform with premier artists like Ariana Grande (world tour), David Foster, Justin Bieber, Big Sean, Mario Winans and Lil’ Kim – and that just in 2015!
André and his wife Andrea are coming back to their respective hometown – DETROIT – to launch Small Creatures, their new musical group this Thursday, January 28. They worked together to write “intentional” music that is fresh but soulful, telling their story. André and Andrea each migrated to LA independently to find their way. Andrea’s musically-talented parents immersed her in harmony and melody so that she performed as a live vocalist while still in her teens. Later, she performed live as a background vocalist for major artists in Detroit and LA. It was through serendipity that Andrea and André played a gig together. They believe that it was through cosmic force that they found each other and resonated on a deep level. In the great scheme of creation, even though they are “small creatures”, the universe breathes love and goodness into their lives.
I have the privilege of knowing André and Andrea and am looking forward to their performance this week. It speaks to their gratitude that they are coming back to Detroit to first present their collaboration. They have paid their dues. They have worked hard and sacrificed to capture in words and music their experience to share with us – for the good. Their actions speak of roots, respect and perseverance – countercultural given the instant-gratification and over-night-success myths of our society. Come celebrate with them on Thursday, January 28, 2016 at the Elizabeth Theater over the Park Bar (2040 Park Ave.) in downtown Detroit with doors opening at 8:30 p.m.
Marisa Petrella
Petrella Brown PLC 