Local Musician Begins His Artist in Residence at Vadnais Heights Elementary School

Written by Gregg A. Fox
Staff Writer

Soli Hughes, a professional multi-careered musician, is a featured artist in residence at Vadnais Heights Elementary School. He officially started his residence Monday and it will continue through Oct. 15.

Hughes is a concert guitarist and ensemble performer and was a feature soloist in the Espoo and Umbria World Jazz Festivals in Finland and Italy.

Hughes has performed at Orchestra Hall, the Guthrie Theatre, the Ordway and most recently in Japan as a featured guitarist for "The Sounds of Blackness." He is a member of the Twin Cities group, "Moore by Four" and has done numerous local recording sessions. In 1998, Hughes was awarded two gold records for his guitar work.

Hughes' residency will expose students to various strong musical concepts and they will acquire knowledge that can be used beyond the classroom. Students will learn about music technology, math and decision making using MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) and computers.

During his residency, Hughes will emphasize the elements of math. He will also explore historical music figures and concepts. He will bring an appreciation for a wide range of music to the Vadnais Elementary students. By doing so, the students' musical background will be enhanced.

As a culmination to Hughes' artist in residence program, there will be a community celebration in the Vadnais Heights Elementary School gym on Oct. 15 from 6:30-7:30 p.m.