Colin Kendrick: Harmonizing a Passion for Popular Music with a Career

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Communication is a symphony of human expression, a rich tapestry woven with music threads, glances, gestures, colors, and images. 


While words often play the lead instrument, they are but one part of an intricate orchestra. We share our stories and emotions in myriad ways, creating a universal language transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Though often overlooked, these varied forms of expression are crucial to understanding and connecting with one another, much like the harmonious interplay of different instruments in an orchestra.

Imagine the countless ways we share our feelings and ideas. A simple glance can communicate understanding or disapproval, much like a conductor’s cue can change the tempo of an entire performance. The movement of our hands can paint vivid pictures in the air, telling stories without uttering a single word, akin to a dancer expressing emotions through every graceful movement. Colors and images evoke feelings and memories, often speaking directly to our hearts, like a painter creating a masterpiece on a canvas.

Perhaps more than any other form of communication, music has a unique and inspiring power to reach deep within us. It can touch the soul, revealing hidden emotions and thoughts. For introverts, music can be a voice when words fail, allowing them to communicate their innermost feelings safely and authentically. On the other hand, extroverts can find solace in the quiet reflection that music offers, much like a peaceful interlude in a bustling symphony.

Art, in all its forms, is a powerful communicator.  As Colin Kendrick states, “Music has always been my passion. Honestly, as an introvert, it was how I connected with and understood other people and felt like I could be understood.”

Colin Kendrick brings us on his journey in the music business, his language of choice. Kendrick is a key figure in the Austin music scene and the founder of Sonic Guild, a nonprofit organization that supports local musicians. Kendrick grew up in Austin, Texas, where his passion for music was ignited at an early age. His diverse career includes a background in audio engineering, wealth management, and technology, notably working at Apple. This unique blend of experiences has given Kendrick a deep understanding of the financial and logistical challenges musicians face, leading to the creation of Sonic Guild. The organization aims to provide financial support, performance opportunities, and industry connections to help musicians sustain their careers and thrive. It functions on the belief that local music, much like the symphony or opera, deserves community support.

The discrepancy between classical music and popular genres in the United States is marked by differences in funding, venue quality, and cultural perception. While classical music enjoys substantial institutional support, other genres often rely on commercial success and community efforts. In Austin, Texas, the rich musical landscape reflects these national trends, with vibrant local scenes coexisting alongside financial and logistical challenges. Efforts like Sonic Guild are crucial in bridging these gaps, ensuring that all musicians, regardless of genre, receive the support they need to thrive.

“Sonic Guild provides more than just financial support; it also offers mentorship and industry connections,” Kendrick explains. The organization arranges paid gigs and corporate events for musicians and connects them with industry veterans for advice and guidance.

Join us as we delve into Colin Kendrick’s inspiring story. 
Discover how marching to the beat of your own drum can create a symphony of fulfillment and success, revealing the powerful harmony between individuality and achievement in your own path. 

Kendrick’s career reflects a profound commitment to music and a determination to support musicians in tangible ways. From his early days sneaking into Austin’s music clubs to his roles at “Austin City Limits,” Apple, and various entrepreneurial ventures, Kendrick’s journey underscores the idea that life is a rich soup of diverse experiences. Each flavor, whether sweet or bitter, contributes to the overall richness of life. By combining his love for music with his business acumen, he has significantly impacted the Austin music scene and beyond.

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