Responsible Artistry In Action

story by NAKEISHA DAWSON-THOMPSON
photos by CHRISTOPHER “SANCHO” SMALLS

Some people must train and practice to be great at what they do, while others are undoubtedly born with talents that are simply breathtaking. To say the least, Mahoganee and Andre Amiger are a rarity to find. Mahoganee was born and raised in Summerton, SC, a true country girl at heart. Andre is a native of Washington, DC where he grew up living a life in the streets. It is this life that has allowed Andre to connect with young people in a way that is “a special gift” stated his wife.

The two met in Atlanta, Georgia in 2001 and married in 2005. Music has been a part of Mahoganee’s life for so long that it has become etched in her DNA. She is a recording artist, singer and songwriter. Andre has also been into music for what seems to be a lifetime as a music producer, so the two coming together was a musical match made into a heavenly melody. While music has been their foundation, the Arts have made the most impact in and through these two. The two moved to Beaufort in 2010 and have called it home since.

In 2006, Responsible Artistry, Inc. was born. When asked what the meaning and purpose behind the name is, Mahoganee states “We wanted to use our influence as artist to enhance and save lives by getting involved in our community directly. We host workshops, classes, volunteering, arts related events. We partner with other organizations to create positive music and simply make it a lifestyle.” Their mission is to arm youth with the imagination to survive thru mentorship art camps, workshops and classes driven by fostering leadership skills, self-awareness and reflection through Music and the Arts. “It is important that what we do, and how we do it exhibits the heart and soul of what we stand for.”

The two are no strangers to community outreach and giving back to the youth through service. Andre and Mahoganee have made an intentional and consistent effort to give back in ways that leave a lasting impression on those who they’ve served. Andre worked in the Beaufort County School system with troubled youth as a Behavior Modifier Specialist. He is known in many of the schools to most of the students and the staff. Mahoganee also served as a volunteer mentor with Gullah Daughters of Purpose, hosting weekly Club meetings with at risk teen girls at Beaufort High School in 2018. The two together have volunteered at St. Helena Elementary School. They have facilitated a three-month music program “Culture Keepers” at the Historical Penn Center on St. Helena Island. They count it a blessing to be able to give back to the community whenever possible.

October 2017, Andre suffered his 3rd stroke, which catapulted the couple to not only living a healthy diet and lifestyle, but also to teach the importance of healthy living. During his time of recovery, music therapy is what Mahoganee states made the biggest healing impact in their life. Acting as sole caregiver during that difficult time, they saw the need and importance to share their path to recovery using music therapy with their following on social media. With music therapy, and healthy eating and lifestyle choices coupled together, the Amiger’s realized exactly what they were supposed to do with sharing Andre’s incredible road to recovery. This led to the implementing of healthy eating habits to be incorporated into the curriculum for their Music Summer Camp.

Knowing the healing power of music therapy and the importance of sharing knowledge that will help children make better eating choices, the couple has since been committed to being an example that lifestyle change is not only possible but fulfilling.

Responsible Artistry is proud to host their 2nd Annual Summer Music Camp for youth ages 7-12 taught by professional musicians and artists. Students will learn the fundamentals of Music Theory, Songwriting, Vocal Skills, Stage Presence and Digital Music Production expressed thru music and art. This year they will include Culinary Arts, Videography and African Drumming. Camp cost and dates are available on the website. If you would like to sponsor a child to attend Summer Music Camp, please reach out to either Mahoganee or Andre directly through their website.

This coming July, Mahoganee will participate in an Artist residency in Belize, where she will provide art therapy with music for children in orphanages and an emergency children’s home. The youth will have the opportunity to express themselves in a safe and creative environment, empowering them to strive for excellence, boost self-esteem, think freely, and learn about their inner spirit. Music comes from deep within and it doesn’t judge, hurt, or limit their hopes and dreams. Through the #ResponsibleARTistry and #MyOnlyHope project, an Artist Residency with Midnite Jewel Quality Group, LLC and the A Dream Come True Mission Team she’ll be making a positive impact in the lives of the underprivileged and underserved population in Belize.

The Amiger’s, are a power couple in action, they have many accomplishments under their belts. Countless awards, participation in many festivals, concerts at the local, state, and national level.

Just this past school year, Mahoganee and Andre completed an Artist Residency at Saluda Trails Middle School in Rockhill. The residency consisted of 7th-8th graders who at the end of the program were able to perform an original music composition entitled “My Only Hope” with Mahoganee on stage at their end of year concert. Most recently, they have been commissioned by TCL to compose their Alma Mater which was presented at the 2018 Annual TCL Christmas program.

When asked what continues to inspire them, the couple agrees “It is not just music, but Art as a whole.” This is their passion, their commitment, and their teaching.