The past year counts as one of the most exciting I've had when it comes to creative projects.
It was early 2024 when I learned I'd been selected to be the subject of a film documentary as part of South Fulton Arts' FILMER program. The program teams Atlanta filmmakers with Atlanta artists to create short portrait-style documentaries. I was fortunate to be paired with Elisee Junior St. Preux, who wrote and directed the film titled "Karla." It premiered earlier this year during events at two Atlanta theaters showcasing all five of the 2025 FILMER films.
Working with Elisee, his crew, and talented young actress Aryana Rosa Castillo, who played "little Karla," was fun and inspiring. We had such a good time during a long day of shooting last August. Elisee shot scenes with Aryana and me, and also conducted interviews with several people, including music and teaching colleagues, students, and notables from arts organizations and more. The crew shot everything at beautiful Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. Many thanks to Callanwolde for allowing us to use the mansion as our location. I'm grateful for everyone's willingness to participate in the project.
This 16-minute film tells a bit about my background and spotlights the work we're doing here in the Atlanta area at concerts and community outreach, sharing the spirit of jazz with audiences of all ages. Elisee weaves together old home-movie excerpts, concert footage, special creative scenes, interviews and more.
The film also is a look at how the seeds of what we're passionate about as adults often are planted in the rich soil of our childhood. And, it reflects on the power of listening to that Knowing inside, which is trying to tell us some things.
One of the best parts of the film's premier was celebrating with all the family there, including my parents and big sister who road-tripped down from St. Louis. So much laughter and joy and some sentimental moments during this experience that was new for all of us.
The film is now up on YouTube. Here is "Karla." Hope you enjoy watching!