Sydney

Learn more about CAM Ambassador Sydney Clapp with this Q & A!

What brought you to UC Denver, and specifically the College of Arts and Media?

The high quality and affordable education and location initially brought me t
o CU Denver. I wanted to attend an urban campus and the Music Entertainment and Industry Studies program in the CAM department only made this program more appealing. Specifically, I was happy to find a program such as the Music Business Audition track because it allowed me to study the business side of music while still pursuing my performance passions.

What concentration do you find yourself leaning towards the most? Why? When did you get started?

I honestly feel completely even with my concentrations. I care about the business of the music industry just as much as the performance. I think they are both incredibly important to know if you want to be involved in any way whatsoever. I’m really passionate about Colorado’s music and culture and that includes both the business of the music scene here and the many talented musicians.

What helps you get inspired?

Creatively, playing music with people inspires me. It’s great to work on your craft alone and really develop your work throughout your time at CU Denver but the opportunities to play music with peers is equally as beneficial. There’s some type of feeling you can quite describe when you are sharing music with others and playing together. Music is meant to be shared and ensembles are the perfect way to do that.

Do you have any rituals to get yourself motivated when you work?

Usually the pure passion for music is enough to be motivated to work on creative projects and business projects. However for songwriting, I usually like to start in the morning with a cup of coffee and by drawing or free writing.  For the business side, the importance of lobbying for contemporary musicians throughout the state of CO usually is very motivating.

Where is the best place to see art, in your opinion?

My music is available at www.sydneyclapp.com and an EP will be released in Fall 2016.

Do you think traveling while representing CAM has been a fulfilling experience? Why

I absolutely think it has been a fulfilling experience because it really made me appreciate CAM even more. It made me feel very proud of the program. I was humbled by other student ambassadors who are representing other programs as well. There were many intelligent and bright students from interesting creative departments that we met in Michigan.

What is your favorite part of being in the CAM program?

I’m lucky enough to be in a program that fosters and encourages creativity, growth, and expression. I think this is my favorite part of being in CAM. It’s such an opening creative institution that allows all different kinds of musical expression and growth.

What is your favorite movie/film that you’ve ever seen?

Oh boy.  I would say “The Lost Skeleton of Cadavra” is by far my favorite movie. It’s impressively stupid and almost beats “The Attack of The Killer Tomatoes”.

Who is your favorite non-mainstream artist and why?

There are so many it’s hard to choose! When I was younger I really enjoyed artists such as Mirah, Regina Spektor, and The Local Natives. Now I still enjoy those artists but most of my favorite non-mainstream artists are actually peers and friends from this program or from CO.

What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever done for your art? Do you regret it?

I’m sure many weird things are in my future for my creative journey but up until now I have locked myself in my friend’s empty apartment to finish writing for an EP. All that was in the apartment was myself, a piano, a guitar, girl scout cookies, coffee, and a nice homemade bed on the floor. I don’t regret it one bit!

Who is your biggest inspiration?

I would say the females in my life are some of my biggest inspirations. This includes my mother and sister who support happiness and living a life that they love even if it’s deemed untraditional.

Do you think anything can be art? Explain

Yes. I do. I think anything that was created by a person at one point could technically be considered art. I think art is a product of creativity. Did it take creativity to develop this Mac Computer? Yes. Could it technically be considered art? I think so. I think people’s ordinary houses are a great example. A person essentially created their space and what exists within their space. That’s beautiful and a great form of artistic expression. I think every person creates art in different ways even if they aren’t considered an artist.

If you had to create a new crayon, what color and name would it be and why?

I would probably create a forest themed crayon that mixes olive green, brown, blue, etc. These colors could be mixed from a tie-dye type swirl in the crayon. I would name it “Into The Woods”

What is your favorite location to go to in Denver?

I really enjoy going to most local venues in town and art spaces. I really enjoy places like Stem Ciders, Larimer Lounge, and more.

Where is your hometown?

McCook, NE

What hobbies do you enjoy?

Other than music and art, I enjoy running, hiking, and being outdoors!