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About this project

This project consists of two original musical tracks, written and vocalized by Michael Chase DiMartino, for self distribution via CD or MP3 download. An original video for each song has been written, and will be performed by Chase, as interpreted for the deaf and hard of hearing in his visionary style of American Sign Language (ASL).

As you'll see, Chase does not simply sign the words to the songs. These videos are not closed captioned. They are specifically crafted to visually demonstrate the rhythm, tone, texture, and mood of the songs. New media make it possible to combine the artistry of Chase's movements with graphic imagery and visual enhancements to create revolutionary ASL interpretations, allowing the deaf and hard of hearing to see the musicality in each song.

In addition, the videos have increased awareness of ASL among the hearing population, since they're well produced and fascinating to watch. You can see samples of Chase's recent ASL interpretations of pop music by other, diverse artists on his YouTube page: http://www.youtube.com/user/MichaelDiMartino (please note specific copyright information on each YouTube video).

Chase's two original music videos, which you'll be funding, will surpass his previous work in originality an quality. They will be submitted to the first "World Deaf Laser Party" in Norway next year, a dance event that includes musicians interpeted by sign language, a disc jockey, video jockey, aroma jockey, and other events for the deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing alike. Chase will be among the sign language interpreters at the event.

The budget for this project is $5,000. $2,500 will cover studio recording costs ($1,000 per song + $500 for special musical arrangements). $2,500 will be used for small stipends to volunteer camera operators ($100 each), video and special effects editors ($150 each), a graphic artist ($150), as well as rental of lighting equipment, and for props and fashion for the videos, plus contingency expenses and DVD duplication costs ($1400). Out-takes will be preserved for use in future projects. Funds collected in excess of $5,000 will be used to further enhance the video productions, and to increase fees for staff.

Marck Adrian Fedor, Producer (all fees and royalties waived for this project). Copyright 2009 by Michael Chase DiMartino. No other publishing or distribution agreements have been negotiated at this time. Videos will be made available to the deaf and hard of hearing freely, via YouTube and other Internet outlets.

The video clip above is a sample of a out-takes, 'bloopers' against a green-screen, from one of DiMartino's older ASL interpretations. It conveys how much effort, joy and exuberance are combined in the production of these videos.


Project location: New York, NY

54
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$3,370
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Funding Canceled

Funding for this project was canceled by the project creator on January 3.

Pledge $10 or more

A free DVD of one of the videos OR a free music download. (may take up to 45 days or more to complete and ship).

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Pledge $25 or more

A free DVD of each of the finished videos. (may take up to 60 days or more to complete and ship).

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Pledge $50 or more

Both DVDs AND free music downloads (may take up to 60 days or more to complete).

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Project By

Maf112409003

Marck Adrian Fedor

Straightpin New York, NY

Consultant to Non Profit and Commercial Corporations ---Provides turn-key production services including print, design, video, internet, technical writing, focus groups. One hundred plus former clients, including Housing Works, GMHC, Liz Claiborne, Booz-Allen, Lazard Freres, Columbia University, AmFar, Stonewall Foundation, Marble Church, et al. Developed beta project for Georgia State University’s Continuing Education Department distance learning program.

MTS (Multi-tasking Systems), New York --- Manager of non-profit return-to-work training program for HIV+ clients with multiple barriers to employment. Managed in-house business (printing, bulk mailing, photocopy shop) as a work experience program for persons with multiple barriers to employment.

AIDS Treatment Data Network, Board of Directors & Director of Public Relations --- Performed Public Relations Services for the first comprehensive on-line AIDS treatment and ADAP program database, under contract from Pfizer Inc. The database includes all clinical trials and AIDS drugs assistance programs available on a state-by-state basis. Co-authored poster presentation on minority participation in AIDS clinical trials for International AIDS Conference, Geneva. Promoted the database at conventions and conferences, including the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care, the US Conference of Mayors, medical technology symposia, NIH NAIAD meetings, etc.

National League for Nursing --- Director of Public Information --- Media Relations; Writing: monthly column in peer-reviewed journal (AIDS Advocacy & Activism), brochures, catalogs, press releases; Production experience: university level educational video, publishing (textbooks and thesis-related volumes), biennial conventions, special events, CE conferences. Worked with governmental agencies, including Capitol Hill conference (congressionally co-sponsored with bipartisan support) for health care legislative aides. Conceived and managed the League’s national AIDS Initiative.

Independent Theatrical Producer, New York, NY --- Produced two off-Broadway plays, directed comedic one-man show; produced Equity waiver workshop productions for various groups of actors; private workshops for actors concerning the production and business aspects of theatre.

Warner Communications / Warner Theatre Productions -- Executive Assistant to President, through seventeen Broadway and off-Broadway Productions; worked ‘behind the scenes’ with general management, press and advertising agents, company managers, theatre owners, investors, tour managers. Attended and assessed workshops and tryouts; read and reviewed scripts daily.