Christopher Keller (aka Kristoff Krane) is a nationally known experimental hip-hop/folk artist, poet, instructor, author and songwriter. He has been performing his craft for 10 years and has released over 10 albums to date, as well as a self-published book entitled The Other. He has instructed workshops on the creative process for seven years at a variety of venues. His workshops have reached middle school and high school students in public schools and in youth-based organizations throughout the Twin Cities. Chris graduated from Concordia-Saint Paul University with a BA in Psychology. In the past he volunteered at The Crisis Connection and The Bridge for Runaway Youth. He is currently a Youth Advocate at Youthlink (a drop-in center for youth currently experiencing homelessness).
Growing up I was a very confused and curious adolescent, with an inner world that ran wild. I was indeed that kid in class who was often told to “settle down,” “stop doodling” and “please remember to raise your hand.” I vividly recall my parents, teachers and friends saying, “Chris, you have quite the imagination” and “You are such a deep thinker, aren’t you?” I’ll never forget that feeling I felt when I realized that through writing and performing I could effectively release this energy, address my thoughts about the world, and express myself in a positively creative way. Since then I have done just that and have continued to develop my own unique approach to self-expression, while guiding and teaching others how to do the same. I believe art is not only therapeutic, but also a means to spiritual development and social change. My objective: Using knowledge of writing and performance craft to foster creative self-expression, confidence and critical thinking skills.
Program Offerings
Performance
Students will experience a performance from established and nationally known Folk/Hip-Hop Artist, Kristoff Krane. Program can be tailored to school’s needs. There will be a Q & A section for students to ask the artist questions, and if time allows, Kristoff will guide students through a short writing exercise, to give them a foundation for creating something meaningful to them.
Performance + Workshop(s)
From the Page to the Stage
Students will explore the creative process by brainstorming ideas to write about, and then deciding which form of expression they would like to use (poetry, rapping, singing, etc.). Once students have created their piece, Kristoff will assist them in their performance. Students will experience performances by Kristoff, as well as examples of other established and effective artists (writings/videos/audio). They will then explore the creative process by first brainstorming ideas to write about, then deciding which form of expression they would like to use (poetry, rapping, singing, etc.) followed by exercises that will assist them in exploring their inner world, in hopes of inspiring them to bring their thoughts, feelings, expression to the page. Once students have created their piece, Kristoff will then lead a discussion with students regarding “performance” and will assist them in refining their writings until they are ready to share in class with one another. Students will then give one another constructive feedback and prepare for their final performance (typically performed for an “outside” audience).
“Christopher was very engaging and open to our youths’ ideas. His experience really resonated with our youth. He did a great job rapping and they enjoyed his curriculum and content.”
Mr. Brett, Edgewood Education Center
