Steve Cyphers
About the Artist
Pronouns: he/him
Steve Cyphers was a founding member of the regional rock group Blue Miracle for 36 years touring the U.S., contributing drums, percussion, songwriting, and vocals. As a frontman, he has a unique ability to engage and connect with audiences. From 2000 to 2005, Steve also worked with Severn Records, an Indie Soul, Blues & Jazz label, taking part in many facets of the business. This includes studio recording, production, art, copy and design. From road manager for [Chicago Soul Artist] Lou Pride in the U.K. (2002) to performing w/the Severn Soul Revue at the Lucerne Blues Festival in Switzerland (2003), it has been a life full of musical experience. Steve was also employed as a booking agent for a MD performance venue for 8 years. In 2011, Mr. Steve began his career as a teaching artist graduating from the Teaching Artist Institute and becoming a longtime roster artist with A4L and the MSAC. With his unique assemblies, residencies & workshops. Steve continues to make a positive impact on countless students & schools all over Maryland.
Artist Statement
“I’ve always enjoyed performing for, and with, people! I like to inspire students to venture further into music while delivering meaningful connections to academics such as STEM, ELA & History/Social Studies. For students, the exciting experience of learning an instrument and becoming an intregal part of a band fosters self-control, empathy, respect and encourages collaborative social skills.”
Credentials
- MSAC Teaching Artist Roster
- Teaching Artist Institute Graduate
Testimonials
"It was such a wonderful experience to work with such a talented musician who was willing to both grow as a teaching artist and to share his knowledge. My first-graders loved drumming with Steve and learned so much--it is no small feat to manage a classroom of primary students with bucket drums and make it so much fun to learn!" –Candice, Teacher, Kensington Parkwood Elementary
"Workshops spanned multiple grade levels and [Mr. Steve] deftly tailored their workshop to reach each of their abilities. Total engagement and great connections." –Betsy & Amanda, Pershing Hill Elementary
"Students were very engaged! Teachers gave numerous compliments on how they enjoyed the workshops. Steve had the ability to draw students in with flexibility and being responsive to where they were at the moment." –Sherrie, Thomas Jefferson Elementary/Middle School
"It was a pleasure to host Steve Cyphers at my school as Artist-in-Residence with my first, second and third grade students to make music in a new, fun way. Mr. Steve was exciting to watch as he played the drums, shared classic songs, and thoroughly engaged my students through his lessons filled with bucket drumming, singing, connections to history and culture, & science connections to sound. My students had a great experience learning to be their own “band” and gave a final performance which highlighted what they had learned and were proud to share. As my students asked and I agree; “Can Mr. Steve come back?” I hope he will be able to again in the future!"
–Dr. Rebecca Birnie, Music Teacher, Jonathan Hager Elementary School
Programs
Adventures in Rhythm Residency
