This spring season is going to be huge for The Deep Roots Music Project. Not only does 2008 mark a full ten years since the project began, but we’re preparing to release a total of four Deep Roots CDs in the Portland area in late April and May.

Reynolds H.S. will complete their 11th annual compilation of songs co-written by teen writers and local professional musicians. Also, Roosevelt H.S. is putting the finishing touches on their second CD, while local non-profit Girls Inc. is busy working on their very first CD (The Girls Inc. CD will also be the very first all-female effort in the Deep Roots series.).

As I think back on the past decade’s accomplishments, all of our great musician volunteers are brought to mind; generous local treasures like Blake Sakamoto, Kevin Hahn, Lara Michell, Ezra Holbrook, Kris Kirkman, Jane Wright, Madgesdiq, and so many more. Without the gift of their time and musical talent, there would be no project at all.

I think, too, of all the students. The sincerity and hard work they put into writing their lyrics has inspired us all.

To mark a decade of achievement and collaboration, Deep Roots has put together a ten-year anthology CD, titled "Deep Roots Music Project Anthology, 1998-2007"which we will release at an open-to-the-public event at McMenamins White Eagle on Tuesday, April 22. Please mark it on your calendar and come by for great music, food, drink, and a chance to catch up with old friends. We are hoping to reunite Deep Roots musicians, students, and program supporters for an evening of celebration. Former Deep Roots student lyricist Breanna Paletta, and long-time musician volunteer John Henry Bourke are a few of the performers slated to entertain.

April 22 is also a great opportunity to support Deep Roots, your favorite high school writing program. McMenamins will donate half of their night’s food and beverage sales to help The Deep Roots Music Project. The new 12-song CD, featuring at least one song from each year of Deep Roots, will be available for purchase as well. Besides some of your very favorite Deep Roots songs, the Anthology features photographs, artwork, and student testimonials from throughout our ten-year run.

Music starts at 5:45 PM. There is absolutely no cover charge to get in the door. All ages are welcome, but if your under 21, you’ll need to clear out by 8:00 PM (sorry).

I can’t wait to see you there.