APPLAUSE GREETS VISITING PROFESSOR SECADA
AT MIAMI DADE COLLEGE’S KENDALL CAMPUS
MIAMI, October 17, 2007 – Recording artist Jon Secada threw his head back while at the piano and composed his newest song in front of an appreciative classroom during the first of five workshops held this week at Miami Dade College. The Grammy© Award-winning artist launched his tenure as a visiting professor at the Kendall campus with workshops open to the public on song writing, singing, recording, ensemble performance, and musical theater.
“I wish I had recorded that,” said Secada after creating an improvisational tune at the piano. He also performed a section of his composition “She’s All I Ever Had,” a number one hit recorded by Ricky Martin that Secada had originally intended to record.
During the workshop, he inspired students with stories of success and words of wisdom. “At the end of the day, it’s all about effort, discipline, sacrifice. The secret is in how you prepare yourself,” said Secada. He recalled his persistence to collaborate with the songwriter Miguel Morejon, who co-wrote his 1992 breakthrough album “Jon Secada.”
Students questioned the star about tricks of the trade, such as the best method for recording a demo. Second-year music major student Jonathan Sepulveda was looking for songwriting skills. “I want to learn to compose, and I hear that Jon Secada is one of the best out there,” he said.
Secada is no stranger to the college. “It feels great to be back. I started off as a teacher at Miami Dade College,” said Secada, recounting his years as a voice and humanities professor in the music department at MDC’s North Campus from 1986 to 1991. “I’m very proud to be here today. You’re in a great place to grow. I know that, because I’ve worked with [the faculty], and I’ve known them for many years.”
The workshops were free for current MDC students and $20 for the public.
Secada is releasing Spanish and English Christmas albums this year and an album of standards next year. He began his commercial singing career as a backup singer for Gloria Estefan, has sold 20 million albums world-wide, and has won two Grammies. He holds a master’s degree in jazz vocal performance.
Media contacts: Beverly C. Rodrigues, MDC director of media relations (305) 237-3949 or Juan Mendieta, MDC director of communications (305) 237-7611.