Album Notes

John Darryl Winston II began his musical journey at the age of 4 by studying classical piano and guitar under Gail Gebhart, Wayne State University and Mary Lou Roberts, Suzuki Guitar Institute respectively. Now 8 years and many awards later he has over 100 songs in his repertoire that come from many different genres including; Classical, Jazz, Blues, R & B, Reggae, Popular, Folk, and Hip Hop. This collection of songs contains his favorites.

Winston is already making a name for himself in Detroit having performed at Cobo Hall and the historic Fox Theatre. He has also won the support of the Mayor’s office as well as Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm’s support, by performing at various events for her office including her 2007 inaugural event at the Charles H. Wright African American History Museum.

With all of his accomplishments he proclaims his greatest as making his Middle School (Spain) basketball team. An avid Avatar and Naruto fan, he has written his own Japanese anime entitled Ninja Royale and wants to one day be a great filmmaker.

Although this is primarily a classical CD, there are a few surprises. He shows his burgeoning vocal skills on a cover of John Legend’s Ordinary People and a reggae version of Bob Dylan’s timeless classic The Times They Are A-Changin’. Although Winston has primarily focused on the ivories in the last 3 years he shows his guitar prowess on two songs including a haunting version of the familiar Greensleeves. Finally, he rounds out the collection with everyone’s favorite, Linus and Lucy.

The Recordings of John Darryl Winston II is a non-profit venture by the Winston Institute of Arts. The Winston Institute of Arts (WIA) has as its’ mission to enhance the quality of life in the Detroit community through art, education, and entertainment. All proceeds from the sale of this CD go to the fine, performing, and visual arts instruction of at-risk children in metropolitan Detroit.

Melanee Felton and Ezra Niles appear courtesy of the WIA

Research says that listening to classical musical makes kids more intelligent. If this is true than listening to great classical performances by a 12 year old must make kids even more so because it speaks to their self-esteem, possibilities, and capabilities. Get this one!