Van Ford

Van Ford (The My'stro): Piano return to top

Van began playing piano at the age of seven.With his parent's encouragement, he studied under the directions of Mrs. Wynn, Mrs. Polk, and Mr. Goodlow.After some years of practice, Van's adoration for music came after he switched to playing the Hammond Organ.While listening to artist such as Peabo Bryson, Daryl Coley, Marvin Gaye, Barry Manilow and Luther Vandross, in his early teens he began to develop and enhance his vocal skills.His career continued to bloom.Playing at various churches, he was given the opportunity to develop skills to direct choirs and provide vocal training.Van attended the University of Memphis and Shelby State Community College.There he studied Jazz piano, vocal techniques and electronic recording.He continued his training under the leadership of the late great Olanda Draper.As an apprentice of Olanda, Van further enhanced the range of his vocal and instrument skills.Still directing his career toward music, he began to play with Christ Community Choir, Olanda Draper and Associates, Yolanda Adams Kenny Green, Richard Smallwood, Timothy Wright, Daryl Coley, Derrick Brinkley and many others.In 1994 to further his career, he joined a six -piece band named "Moment Notice until 1996.After leaving "Moment Notice" in 1996 Van formed a three-piece band he named as "Trio Plus".Music is one of the most important things in Van life, next to his devoted faith to his Load and Savior Jesus Christ.Van a.k.a. the My'stro knows that with God as his pilot, the sky is the limit.