Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Friday, February 27, 2009

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Ninth-grader Kayla Mumphery practices "The Type of Love I Want" with professional musician Mark "Big Poppa" Stampley.

Students’ creativity blossomed in words, song, music and movement this week when Mark “Big Poppa” Stampley brought his “Music History in Motion” program to Martin Luther King Jr. Academy.

“He allows flexibility and freedom. The kids took over the workshop in the most positive way,” said teacher Makini Campbell. “They need an arts outlet. It allows them to express what’s innate.”

Stampley’s sessions encompass not only music but also reflective writing and occasional theater. The goal is for students to understand that the music of any period will reflect the life and times of the creator, he explained. Stampley also wants the kids to realize they can find peace and fulfillment through the arts.

“I learned instead of acting out in an irrational way, I can put my rational thoughts on paper and get the same stress release,” said junior Dominique Hocker, who composed several poems during the workshop.

Hear Dominique read one of his favorites:

During his daily sessions at MLK Academy, Stampley demonstrated various styles, including jazz, blues, reggae, rock, country and gospel, as he introduced the kids to famous musicians like minstrel James Bland and blues man Robert Johnson. Throughout the week, students recorded their thoughts and feelings in a journal. Stampley then helped them add music.

“The focus is their ability to create their own world. Even if it’s a story, we try to meld the musical background,” Stampley explained.

A handful of students shared their writings and talent with the staff and student body during Friday’s three lunch periods.

Earlier, as Stampley guided them through rehearsals, he allowed for ad libs, but reminded them that there are no do-overs during a performance.

“Make it sound as complete and precise as you can make it,” he said, urging a student on keyboards to find a beat and stick with it. “When we get on stage, you’re just going to roll with it.”

Classmates suggested that seventh-grader Lamonica Ingram, who was practicing Etta James’ “At Last,” tap her foot to the rhythm rather than listen to Stampley’s guitar. “That’s what I was saying about the tempo. Now you can hear it,” he told her gently.

Listen to Lamonica’s performance:

Most of the kids worked on original pieces. Some consisted of a beat laid over spoken word; others featured dancing. Freshman Kayla Mumphery’s solo, “The Type of Love I Want,” drew raves from fellow students.

“(Stampley) looked at my poetry and decided to play it as a song,” said Kayla, who sings with a heartfelt, soulful sound.

Hear Kayla’s solo:

Friday’s wrap-up not only showcased students’ writing and musical talents but also helped with public speaking and performance skills.

“This is more than we expected – transforming their writings into music,” said school social worker Quincy Murdock. “That’s a big step for these kids.”