My Voice Matters: Concert and Songwriting Workshop

The Institute of Musical Traditions is proud to present a show sure to resonate with survivors, family members and the professionals who work with them. David Roth and Rob Guttenberg with special guest Tom Scullen bring a story about the human spirit and the creative drive that can lift any of us to our highest achievements.  This is a performance that promises to be “moving and energizing,” in the words of Jim Dickson, vice president of organizing and civic engagement for the American Association of People with Disabilities.

In addition: RainSong has graciously donated one RainSong Shorty SG Guitar to raffle off in association with the “My Voice Matters” show! Proceeds will benefit the Institute of Musical Traditions (remember, we’re an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3)!) – and we’re hugely grateful to RainSong for the support! Learn more and get your raffle tickets ($5 for one or 5 for $20!) right here!

Earlier that day, David Roth will present a Songwriting Workshop at 1:00pm titled “Songwriting for Everyone ~ Feedback for Some.” Learn more and reserve your spot for the workshop here.

Rob Guttenberg:
A singer/songwriter who’s been performing since he was a student at Brown University in the 1970s, has made music a guiding force in his recovery and life as a brain injury survivor.  Rob weaves his distinct messages into a rich narrative about his recovery and everything he’s learned about what people can accomplish.

David Roth:
David Roth strikes many chords, hearts, and minds with his unique songs, offbeat observations, moving stories, sense of the hilarious, and powerful singing and subject matter. As singer, songwriter, recording artist, keynote speaker, workshop leader, and instructor, David has earned top honors at premier songwriter competitions – Kerrville (TX) and Falcon Ridge (NY) – and taken his music, experience, and expertise to a wide variety of venues in this and other countries full-time for three decades.

Living Every Day – A Creative Journey 
The unique power of creative expression as a force for personal recovery from brain injury.
Rob was just 29 when he experienced a brain hemorrhage in 1983 from an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). The doctors were able to save him with surgery, but the AVM rupture left him with severe physical and cognitive impairments and he had to relearn the most basic functions of daily life.  But by 1985, Rob had made enough progress that he was able to go to work using his master’s degree in counseling psychology.  He took a job at YMCA Youth Services in Montgomery County, where he continues to work today.