IPR Inspires Grad to Write His Album

Why did you decide to attend IPR?

I decided to attend IPR after I attended a different college trying to acquire the same degree, and while I made many friendships and learned a lot from liberal arts college (Doane College), it didn’t suit my needs.  A high school friend of mine is an alumni of IPR, and made the recommendation, and the rest is history!

What is your degree in and why did you choose that degree?

I have my Associate’s in Audio Production and Engineering. I chose this degree because ever since I was maybe 14 or 15 I always wanted to make my own electronic music and do it professionally, and I came out of IPR with the knowledge and skills I needed to make my music come to life in ways I never thought possible.

What inspired you to write this album?

My album, Stories, was inspired actually by the two years I had spent at IPR learning about school, honing my craft, and making memories along the way.  More importantly though, it carries a message of self-love.  When I graduated, I went through serious anxiety and depression constantly, with some thoughts of even ending my life.  After I had sought help and was finally in a well enough place to continue writing, I wanted to express the notion to any who might listen to my record that their life is one great big adventure, and for some reason, we were put on this earth in this universe to experience that adventure, and share our story with others.  Stories is an embodiment of how precious life really is.

What advice would you give potential students going into this career field?

My advice to students is to make connections with other people, and treat your peers with kindness and love, because you never know who will end up giving you helping hands along in the future.  Also, CONSTANTLY practice your craft, and find a hunger to absorb as much knowledge as you can.  Even when you think you’re at your best, you can never learn too much!

Who is your inspiration and why?

My biggest musical inspiration is a French electronic musician and recording artist who goes by the name Madeon.  Listening to his music was when I really first figured out the kind of sound I wanted to portray (super honorable mentions to Daft Punk and Porter Robinson)

What is your ultimate goal in your profession?

My ultimate goal is to become a professional musician, to tour and to not only share my music, but my story with others!

WORDS OF WISDOM: Stay hungry, stay foolish.

To learn more about Chad Atkins, click here read this article by Justin Bailey, an IPR student and content writer and social media admin for Music in Minnesota.