I've certainly been off the radar in the last few months. When I was making my documentary, "Voices of the Homeless," I really missed my own music. I knew I had to get back to it. But I never knew I'd get so many gigs as I have this year. From the Ventura County Democratic Party's Inaugural Gala this last January to clubs around the corner here in the city, all year long I have been busy. And I am very grateful.
However, all this musical activity pulled me away from promoting my documentary. Or I should say, it pulled me away from promoting the idea that this documentary suggests: using the improvisational skills of jazzers as a healing tool for those unfortunate enough to be living on the street without means.
I thought last year when I finished my documentary that the best way to find a larger audience than the County of Ventura, California, was to enter film festivals. However, I've come to realize that, with all my beginner mistakes, i.e., sound issues, most film festivals are too competitive for what I have to offer at this point. It is not that I will never submit to a film festival again but I will be far more selective than I first was.
In the meantime, since my goal was not to become a famous filmmaker, but to promote an idea and raise people's awareness, I've decided to upload the entire documentary to Vimeo. This 4th of July weekend I will finally get that going.
Perhaps the best way to "get it out there" is to find a platform where a film like mine can live, breathe, and be seen.
As soon as "Voices of the Homeless" is up on Vimeo, I will blog, tweet, and post my brains out.
Till then, I wish all my followers (I believe right now there are 3 of you) a Happy and Safe 4th of July.
And I'll see you soon,
Toni
