May 30, 2024
Champions: Sandra Kluge, Exploring the Beat of Tap Percussion
In this interview, we talk with Sandra Kluge, a talented tap percussionist and composer from Brooklyn, New York. Sandra shares her experiences participating in Make Music Day events since 2019, her unique journey mastering tap music production through experimentation, and her deep connection to music as a means of self-expression and connection with others. She’s been on a long journey, and currently, she has two singles released, called Misty Rose and Clementine, which showcase her musical skill.
How has your experience been at the Make Music Day events?
I participated in Make Music Day events in 2022 and I believe in 2019 as well. It was great. It’s a really awesome way to play in spaces that don’t usually host live performances and live music. I got to play at a coworking space, at a community garden, and at a crepe place. It’s really awesome for businesses to open their doors to host live music.
How did you start making music?
I come from a family of musicians. I’ve been making music in some way, probably my entire life. My first instrument was the clarinet, and when I was ten, I started learning tap from my mom. I felt inspired to check it out and ended up being really connected to the art form. I’ve always felt connected to the music aspect of it, so slowly over time, I really just honed in on treating tap as a musical instrument. This led me to write my own music, perform it live, and handle recording and production. I kind of organically got into it. Now I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.
You have two great singles streaming on Spotify. How was your experience doing those?
Really great. Recording my own music in which tap is the only percussive instrument is the most fulfilling creative thing that I’ve ever done in my life so far. With recorded music, I’m inspired by its accessibility. Because if you want to see a regular tap performance, you either have to go on YouTube and search for a video, or make time to go to a live performance. Recorded music can be easily streamed or purchased, so it’s so much more accessible for people’s day-to-day lives. Just as everyone has a personal soundtrack that resonates with their moods and experiences, I aspire to contribute to people’s lives in a similar way. I believe the soundtracks of my own life have been influential and helpful in navigating various situations. Being able to provide that for others is incredibly gratifying.
How was the experience of actually recording the tap? I imagine it’s different from the recording of ordinary percussion instruments.
It’s actually really interesting. I’ve been learning a lot during this whole process. There is no default way to produce, record, and mix tap, so it’s about learning by doing. It involves a lot of experimentation. When you record a drum set, you can mic each drum separately and hone in on the different frequency strums. But with tap, it’s like you basically have all the frequencies on one drum. That’s the main challenge, I’d say. How do I bring out all the little nuances that I want to hear? Sometimes, it’s frustrating because I want things to sound a certain way, and I find myself running up against some challenges. But the journey is great. I’m learning a lot. Just the act of recording and really listening back to what I do has been so helpful.
Do you think you get to actually capture what you want to hear in your taps in the recording?
Yes, I think so. There’s always room for improvement. As I grow and refine my setup and my gear to record it, it’s coming closer to what I hear. It’s already definitely on track for me.
What artists inspire you in your music creation?
Lots of different ones. I grew up within the jazz framework, all the greats. There are great jazz piano players; I love Oscar Peterson. All these masters of the craft, jazz vocalists. That’s kind of the foundation of what inspired me and influenced me; it’s the sensibility of all these artists. These days, on top of that, I’m very inspired by any artist who bridges the gap between making music that is both meditative and really hones in on very clear patterns and develops them over a long time, while still being groovy and having that balance. So, some of the specific artists that I’m influenced by right now are Sam Gandel from LA, and Sam Wilkes from LA because they’re doing exactly that, among a bunch of others.
What genres do you enjoy playing? Is it only jazz music?
What I play is kind of hard to put into a genre. When trying to explain my music to people, I’d put it into words as jazz-based, alternative R&B, or something like that. I’d ultimately say alternative jazz.
Do you mainly play your original songs in your presentations?
Yes, I pretty much exclusively play my originals. I have such a specific vision for how the tap fits into the music; it makes more sense to play my own music for that.
Are you a full-time musician?
Yes. Well, my day job is teaching tap. Other than that, I’ll be performing, working on projects, creating, and making music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music to me means a space that allows me to feel whatever I’m feeling in the moment, and to connect with that feeling in a way that makes me feel connected to something bigger. Whether I’m listening to music or if I’m playing music, I know I’m not the only person feeling this way. Music is the perfect level of abstraction where we don’t have to explain what it does to us; we feel it. Even if I play just one chord, this one chord might evoke a really specific feeling. For me, that’s the power of music.
Finally, what would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to forge ahead on the path of tap percussion, continuing to record music, and release more songs, and full albums. I’d love to collaborate with specific individuals to further develop tap percussion as an instrument. I want to just share and connect, and feel increasingly clear about my artistic voice and how I can connect with people in that way, whether through collaborative performances or engaging with audience members.
May 28, 2024
Champions: Kapono Wong, Hawai’i’s Ukulele Sensation
In this interview, we talk with Kapono Wong, a talented musician renowned for his exceptional ukulele skills and profound love for music. From an early age, inspired by the legendary Jake Shimabukuro, to his participation in Make Music Day events, Kapono shares his musical journey, inspirations, and dreams. Join us as we explore Kapono’s world of music and discover the joy he brings through his ukulele melodies.
When was the first time you played in a Make Music Day event?
I think the first time I attended a Make Music Day event was three years ago. I believe a friend of mine posted something about Make Music Hawai’i and how to sign up. So, I took the chance and got the opportunity to play at Windward Mall.
How was your experience that first time at Make Music Day?
I can’t recall the songs I played, but I do remember playing the ukulele at the back of my head for the very first time. I just went for it, I had a lot of fun. It was a great experience, I’d say.
How did you start making music?
I started playing the ukulele at the age of five. My parents actually made their kids take ukulele classes after our elementary school lessons. At that age, I wasn’t really into the ukulele. But, when I got into middle school, the ukulele was offered as an elective course. I took it, and that’s when I started to really enjoy playing it and get into it. That’s also when I first discovered Jake Shimabukuro and got inspired to play his most challenging songs.
When did you start taking it more seriously?
Definitely around high school junior-senior time, that’s when I started to play more and play in front of people. Before, I used to have terrible stage fright and couldn’t even play for my family’s birthday parties. Starting to feel more at ease and following Jake’s advice really helped me come out of my shell and perform more often.
What artists inspired you to start making music?
Definitely, Jake Shimabukuro was the first one. There is also Taimane Gardner and Brittni Paiva, two amazing ukulele artists. The majority of ukulele musicians really helped me get to where I am today. As of right now, I’m currently attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, and definitely, my professors and the super-talented musicians there really help me expand more. I’m honored to be part of them and have this opportunity.
What genres do you mainly enjoy playing?
I enjoy playing all kinds of genres, but if I were to pick, I’d say between pop and rock. I enjoy listening to Bruno Mars, Billie Eilish, Carlos Santana, The Beatles, and Queen. I just love listening to all their music, arranging their songs, and then putting them in my own style to make them kind of my own.
In your live shows, do you play more covers or original music?
It’s mainly covers. I’m still working on creating and putting out my originals; it’s something I’m trying to put more focus on to get my music out there.
How has your time in Boston been, besides college? Have you been performing frequently?
I’ve been exploring Boston and getting to know the areas and my surroundings. Since it’s a bit challenging to land gigs here, I’ve taken to busking. At first, it was really nerve-wracking for me, since it’s a new city, a whole new environment. But I’m starting to get more comfortable with it.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is the universal language. You may not be able to speak other people’s languages, but you can connect to people through music. That’s the universal language of humans.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal is to inspire other people to have fun with music, whether it’s on the ukulele or any other instrument, just have fun with it. Music is my getaway. When I feel stressed or down, playing the ukulele and making music instantly changes my mindset and lifts my mood.
May 22, 2024
Champions: Nick Marziani, Embracing Jazz and Musical Exploration
In this interview, we talk with Nick Marziani, a versatile jazz musician from the bustling streets of Manhattan, NYC, known for his soulful saxophone melodies that resonate through the city’s vibrant jazz scene. Explore Nick’s musical odyssey, from his introduction to Make Music Day to his unwavering dedication to jazz and musical exploration. Join us as we delve into Nick’s influences, experiences, and his enduring passion for musical expression.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
Funny enough, there is this incredible pianist and vocalist I work with, Ethan Ostro, who works for Make Music Day. He’s the best. He told me what they do and invited my band to be part of it. We play sort of on the verge of smooth jazz and dance music, rough jazz, sort of a bunch of different things. He also told me that it’s a great way to build community and spread live concerts throughout the city. So, we decided to be part of it.
How was your experience at the Make Music Day events?
It was an incredible experience. I participated in Make Music Day last year, and I believe I played at the 70th Street Pier, where I had previously performed without realizing it. The team was super nice; whether they were artists themselves or not, they understood what we needed as artists and what we were trying to present to the audience. Additionally, speaking about the performing experience itself, it was awesome because so many people were there—people of all different ages, from little kids to older individuals. I believe, for many of them, it was their first time watching a live performance of jazz music, like smooth jazz. So it was cool to bring that to them.
How did you start making music?
Well, my parents forced me to take piano lessons as a kid, and I had no interest in doing that. So, I asked my mom if I could switch to playing the saxophone to avoid the piano, and she agreed. I was around ten years old at the time. Initially, I wanted to play the trumpet instead of the saxophone. However, one day, my mom played a Kenny G CD for me in the car, and I realized I wanted to play what he was playing—it sounded way cooler.
Do you only play the saxophone? Or do you also play other instruments?
I love playing other instruments as well. In fact, I still perform gigs on the clarinet and flute, both of which I learned during my school years. Currently, my primary instrument is the saxophone, but I still enjoy playing the clarinet and flute. I also occasionally play the keyboards.
At what point did you realize you wanted to do music for a living?
I think once I picked up the saxophone and started getting into jazz music and smooth jazz, I began with Kenny G, Gerald Albright, and Spyro Gyra. I listened to them on the radio, and that was really inspiring to me. I wanted to learn to play music like that on my instrument. After about a year of playing the saxophone, I realized I had found my instrument.
Apart from jazz, what other genres do you enjoy playing?
I’m a sucker for any old-school soul and R&B. I also like dance music, IDM, house, and all that kind of stuff. I’m super into playing that music with DJs; it’s a totally different experience, and it’s fun to see people dance to your playing. I also play a lot of funk and some Afrobeat stuff—kind of a mix of everything. Besides jazz, I think R&B, funk, and dance are the big three for me.
And what are some artists that inspire your playing nowadays?
Honestly, many of the same artists who inspired me when I first started playing the saxophone continue to inspire me today, such as David Sanborn, Grover Washington, and Eric Marienthal, among others. Other artists have had a profound impact on my playing as I got older, such as Michael Brecker and guitar players like Allan Holdsworth and Pat Metheny. I still listen to the saxophone players that I grew up with nowadays; they serve as my gold standard in terms of the vision I have for myself.
When did you begin pursuing music full-time?
It was probably when I got into high school that I knew I wanted to be a full-time musician. After school, I made the decision to pursue music full-time. So, from there, I charted my path through music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is everything to me. Most importantly, it’s therapeutic and healing. During any rough patch I’ve faced in my life, I feel like I’ve been able to deal with it more constructively because of music.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal in music is to produce the best records and concerts possible and to play to the best of my ability. I aim to do the best work I can, creating music that I’m genuinely proud of and that people can enjoy. Providing enjoyable music experiences is important to me, as long as I get to express my story through my music.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to start out in music?
Do what you like. Figure out the songs, instruments, and music styles you enjoy, and find people who share your musical interests. Many people pursue music because they feel pressured to do so, but it’s important to engage in music for your own enjoyment if you want it to become a lifelong passion. Find what you want to do and what you enjoy, and get as deep into that as possible.
May 10, 2024
Champions: Michelle Lambert, California’s Musical Powerhouse
In this interview, we talk with Michelle Lambert, a talented multi-instrumentalist from San Francisco, California. We’ll explore Michelle’s musical journey, from her start to where she is today. Michelle shares her experiences and thoughts on music, giving us a peek into her life as a full-time musician. She’s known for mixing pop and country music in her performances, bringing joy to audiences wherever she goes.
Can you tell us a bit about your experience at Make Music Day?
Last year, I participated in Make Music Day San Francisco, here in California. I was excited about being part of this global movement. I found out through social media that this event took place not only in the USA but around the world. It was a cool experience, and I really enjoyed it.
How did you start making music?
I started chasing my dreams as an artist about ten years ago. To take it back to the very beginning, I began classical violin in a very small town where I grew up. I followed my siblings and began playing classical violin using the Suzuki method with a sixteenth-size violin. Then, I had a really good teacher to keep me focused and inspired by. I began playing at around two years old. In this small town, there was not much to do, so if you got into something, it was really easy to stay focused. So, I got into violin, and shortly after, I did classical piano and singing, just kind of learning about music fundamentals. Then, as a kid, I fell in love with more popular music. Once I started to find my favorite artists, then I would start to try to write songs. By the time I was a teenager, all I wanted to do was be a professional artist, and singer-songwriter, travel, make music, and connect with the world in that way. I went to a music school in Boston, Berklee College of Music, where I earned my four-year degree. After graduating, I went to Nashville to make a living. The first year was very intimidating, but after that, I got a bunch of tours going on, I did a lot of work, and I was working most days as a musician while writing songs in the background. I was touring with all kinds of hip-hop bands, and country bands, I was doing the singer-songwriter nights, and playing the honky-tonks, I got to play in the Grand Ole Opry and the women’s NCAA Final Four with like 18000 people, which was very exciting and very fun. After about three and a half years in Nashville, I realized that although I was making a living as a musician, I wasn’t pursuing my dream of playing my own music and having my own show. So I stopped everything, moved to LA, recorded an album, performed up and down the West Coast, a little bit in the western states, then went to Colorado, made one of the music videos, got some time there, just touring a bit and doing a little bit more of songwriting. Then I moved to the East Coast and toured in the South Florida area for a while. I released a song called ‘My California,’ which went viral on the West Coast, particularly in California. I looked at that as an opportunity to take advantage of. So, I moved back to the Bay Area, which has been my home base for the last five or six years. I’ve been touring in this area. I’ll be doing more out-of-state touring, especially this year. That’s the journey in a nutshell. It’s a rollercoaster ride, and you’ve got to be ready for the ups and downs, but it’s fun. I feel very lucky to be able to chase a dream that keeps me alive.
You’ve been doing this full-time ever since you finished school. At what point in life did you say “I want to do this as a living”?
When I was a teenager, I think it all started when I played in a local band. I got involved because I played the fiddle, and it seemed interesting. We performed at various local shows, which, as a kid, I found very fun. Then I remember getting paid for the first time, and I realized you could make money doing this. It made me think that pursuing a music career could be a fun path to explore. I think that was the first time where I was just thinking about how to make this dream into reality and put it together and build that.
What genres do you enjoy playing?
I’d say the biggest genre I love is pop, but it’s a very big umbrella. I love artists from Ed Sheeran, to Shakira; I have a lot of favorites right now, such as Miley Cyrus, and Taylor Swift. There’s a lot of inspiring music out there, with many artists embracing their authentic selves, which is exciting to see. So, primarily, I’d say it’s pop. I also love some country artists, such as Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert. I always have the Devil Went Down In Georgia, Charlie Daniel’s song, in my set as well. I love Maroon 5, and some California music. I’d describe my style as an alt-pop country fusion.
In your presentations and concerts, do you usually play your own songs? Or do you also put on some covers?
I do a lot of originals. Typically at an artist show, I’ll do probably 80-90% originals. If it’s like a fair festival, I’m going to throw in some of my influences. It’s fun to make your own rendition of the songs and bring your version of them to life. So, I’d say it depends on the show, but there’s always a lot of originals in there, which is very important.
When you started, was it hard to get people to actually listen to your original music?
I was so shy in the beginning that I wouldn’t even mention it was my own music; I’d just include it. It’s funny because I think original music has always been my calling. I felt like I ran away from it for a long time, but it kept pulling me back until I realized I couldn’t ignore it. Then, I noticed that people responded to my music because I have a deeper emotional connection to those songs since they come from within me. I finally realized that this approach works, and I started sharing a little story about the songs, which helped connect with the audience in another way. It took me a while to become confident enough to share those pieces of information about my music.
How would you describe what music means to you?
I think the coolest thing about music is that it can change your feelings dramatically. It can make you feel better, it can make you feel sad, but in a way where you can work through those emotions. It’s incredible to consider the influence of both my own songs and those of others in creating such meaningful experiences and sharing them with others.
Finally, last question: What would you say your goal in music is?
I like to leave the future open; the sky is the limit. But I always believe that what unfolds before me is something I’m prepared for. I want to continue expanding on the path I’m on. As I mentioned, I view music as a calling, and I prefer not to make rigid five or ten-year plans. What if what I truly need comes along unexpectedly? It seems that every time I do make a plan, the opposite occurs, which often turns out to be exactly what I need. I’ll keep being genuine and putting out true music, true feelings, and being authentic. I believe that’s the best I can offer at all times.
May 7, 2024
Baby You in Wisconsin – Join the Choir!
We are thrilled to announce the world premiere of Baby You, a public art event where a massive 112-foot long hot air balloon in the shape of a sleeping newborn will be inflated and rise over Milwaukee on Make Music Day, accompanied by a new a cappella choral work by composer Michael Schachter, conducted by Lee Stovall.
As the sun sets in Milwaukee WI on Friday, June 21, hundreds of singers will gather in Veterans Park, on the shore of Lake Michigan, to perform the new composition, while behind them the balloon is inflated, takes shape, and begins its tethered ascent. The combined aural and visual experience invokes the shared humanity of all people. Everyone was a baby once: adorable, vulnerable and full of potential.
YOU are invited to sing in this one-of-a-kind chorus experience. No auditions are required and it is free to participate.
May 7, 2024
Partner of the Week: The Przekrój Foundation
Baby You was commissioned by the Przekrój Foundation (pronounced “p-SHEH-crooy”), which grew out of Poland’s oldest magazine about society and culture, available in print since 1945.
From mounting ambitious, large-scale art installations and festivals, to sponsoring comedy shows, exhibitions, and film screenings, the Foundation hopes to spread joy and build community, and inspire others to do the same. Their thought-provoking magazine, Przekrój – independent and free of advertising – focuses on big existential questions, well-being, philosophy, art, literature and the sciences.
Thanks to the Przekrój Foundation for joining this year’s Make Music Day in such spectacular fashion!
May 7, 2024
Make Music State of the Week: Texas
Make Music Day is exploding this year in Texas, with 13 Texas cities participating on June 21 – 9 of them for the first time!
Presented by the Texas Music Office, notable events will include a tribute to Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole at the Miller Outdoor Theater in Houston, the Dallas Chamber Choir performing at the Frisco Discovery Center, and “the largest bucket drumming circle ever created” at the historic Salado Civic Center Gazebo.
May 3, 2024
Champions: Karen Bella, Exploring Musical Expression
In this interview, we talk with Karen Bella, a multifaceted singer, songwriter, and musician deeply rooted in the vibrant music scene of New York City. Karen shares her journey, from discovering Make Music Day to honing her craft. Join us as we explore Karen’s experiences, influences, and her unwavering dedication to music.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
I became part of it because of Cowgirl Seahorse. I performed there, and the girl behind the bar invited me to be part of this event that happens on the summer solstice, telling me I could perform in Brooklyn for an hour. I liked the idea and got into it. For the past couple of years, I’ve participated. I think the first time I did it was in 2021, then I believe I participated in the two following years. It’s nice because you get to be a part of a community of musicians. Even if you don’t see each other in the street, you know you’re all doing the same thing at the same time, celebrating a solstice, whether it’s winter or summer; for me, it was the summer solstice.
How did you start making music?
I started making music when I was a little girl. I’ve always been drawn to it; it was something that always made me feel good. Especially being a little girl, I had a lot of difficulty making friends. I remember being alone on the playground and just sitting with myself, singing to myself, and finding so much joy in it, making me feel happy. I went to my mom and told her that I could sing and that I wanted to do something with it. Both of my parents supported me in it. It hasn’t been a smooth journey. I went through years where I didn’t want to be a singer because I didn’t think I was worthy or good enough. I was afraid of being in front of people. It took me many years to come out of my shell. I think it wasn’t until my late teens that I started taking it more seriously and recording more. I got into it because it was the only source of happiness that I had that wasn’t from anything external but from something that was inside of me already. When you have a calling, when there’s something that’s meant to be in your life, you can’t run away from it; it’s always gonna find its way back. For me, that was music. When there are hard times in life, I can go back to music, and it makes me feel happy and passionate again, and I know I always have that to fall into. It also became a way for me to really express myself on what I was thinking and feeling. The only way for me to express myself and tell my story is through songs and lyrics.
What artists inspired you to start making music?
I love Barbra Streisand, John Mayer, Elton John, and Taylor Swift. Taylor is such an amazing songwriter and a huge inspiration to a lot of young people and aspiring musicians. I also really love the greats like Prince, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey, and Queen. I love jazz music, instrumental music, and funk music, among other genres. I love a wide variety of artists, but I think it was Barbra Streisand who made me realize I wanted to do music for the rest of my life. My mom introduced me to her through Funny Girl. I know a lot of people may not know about who she is, but I think everybody should because she was such a revolutionary woman; she was one of the first women creators, writers, and singers to really gain respect.
What genres do you enjoy playing yourself?
When it comes to describing it, think of acoustic coffeehouse music. But my genre is mixed with a bunch of different things. I’d describe it as if John Mayer and Joni Mitchell had a baby, and Alanis Morissette raised the child as a nanny, with a little bit of R&B. I’m influenced by so many things, and I think that people have so many different sides to themselves, and because I’ve listened to such an extreme variety of music — everything from opera to hip hop, to folk music, and everything in between — my music’s got a little bit of everything.
How is the process of songwriting for you?
It’s like a fax machine, sometimes it’s on and sometimes it’s off. I used to get ideas for songs a lot more before, but it’s been less. I think it’s because I’ve been so busy gigging and performing; I’m just so tired to be an open channel. Lately, I’ve been trying to collaborate with others and to have them send me ideas, and then take them and make them my own, maybe changing some chords or lyrics around. I’m learning that songwriting is not just getting the idea as an inspiration, you also have to sit and work on it.
In your presentations, do you usually just play your original music? Or do you also play covers?
It’s a mixture. I’ll do gigs where I’m only doing covers and then I’ll do gigs where it’s only originals, and then I’ll do gigs where it’s covers and original music.
Could you tell me more about what you like doing in your presentations?
I’ve been playing for a looper for maybe three to four years. In my performances, I create a full production right on the spot. I have a bass pedal which changes the guitar to sound like a bass. And then I take the wood of the guitar and I play it as if it was like a conga or a kick drum, creating a percussive sound. I also play the chords and little elements. I also have other pedals that could give a delay or change the sound of the guitar, making it sound like different instruments. So, I create a live production right on the spot, and people seem to love it.
I believe you’re currently a full-time musician. Is that right?
I’m a full-time musician. I’ve been making music since I was a kid, but I’ve been making a living through music since 2018. It’s been scary; there have been difficult times, but it teaches you how to hustle and get work; there is always a way. I’m really blessed. I hope that I can do what I love to do for the rest of my life.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music saved me. It’s my essence. I don’t know who I am without singing or playing instruments. It defines me. There are other aspects of me, but also through the music I’ve made amazing friendships and a beautiful music family. Music is the answer to my soul, my heart, and my mind.
What would you say your goal in music is?
My goal is to make music forever. I’ve learned to stop putting an emphasis on exact plans and goals; you can only control so much. My goal is to make a living doing anything related to music for the rest of my life and to be happy doing it.
May 1, 2024
Champions: Paul Fey, the Organ Maestro, Composer, and YouTube Sensation
In this interview, we talk with Paul Fey, an organist from Leipzig, Germany, to discuss his musical journey, centered around the beauty of church music. Paul shares insights into his background, experiences, and views on music, offering a glimpse into his world as a full-time musician, composer, and YouTuber. He is one of the organists at St. Thomas Church in Leipzig, where he works with the choirs. Last year, he released his first CD, “Around the Organ World,” which features 11 tracks recorded on ten amazing pipe organs from all over the world.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
I was planning a concert trip to the United States last year, looking for opportunities, and this church in New York, Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral, came up with the idea to play a concert on Make Music Day. That’s how I got into it and learned about it.
How was your experience at the Make Music Day event?
I wasn’t sure what to expect as it was my first time playing a concert there. But I really enjoyed the experience. I had a nice time playing at the concert, and I hope the listeners had a nice time too.
Was it your first time hearing about Make Music Day?
Yes, it was the first time. I had heard about Fête de la Musique in France, but I wasn’t aware it was connected to Make Music Day.
How did you start making music?
I started as a child in kindergarten; my parents set me up for music lessons. They asked my brother and me if we wanted to try an instrument when we got to primary school. I began playing the classical guitar, and my brother played the keyboard. After two months, he was done with it; he didn’t go to his practices at all, he wasn’t happy with it. So I took over and started practicing both, playing the guitar and the piano at that time. Eventually, the piano transformed into the organ; I got asked at church if I wanted to give it a try, and the organ thing started. Now, I only play the organ; it’s the most fun. Pianos are always kind of the same, but an organ is completely different, and it’s pretty cool to experience and discover what it can do.
What genres do you enjoy playing?
I personally enjoy all genres. I think I’m most known for the classical range of music, especially the small preludes that people seem to love from JS Bach. Everything works on the organ if you want it to. I’m into the classical organ style, and of course, my own music.
Do you also post your original compositions?
I do. I’ve set a goal to write one every week, publishing it on Sunday in a video. The last two weeks have been busy, so I didn’t get to write anything. I used to write something every week—a challenge I set for myself to have a deadline to work into, a good thing for me at least.
Do you play other instruments or sing?
I’ve studied church music, including organ music, piano playing, choir conducting, singing, and orchestra conducting, among others. I did that for a while, but I didn’t really enjoy it. I’m the organ guy.
At what point did you say, “I want to do music as a living, as a full-time thing”?
I grew into it, I’d say. Let me tell you the story. I finished school, and I wasn’t sure what to do, like every teenager. My parents suggested I try office administration training, a three-year program to become an office worker here in Germany. I did that with a large television company. It was really boring for me. When I was doing that, I got asked at church if I wanted to give the organ a try, and that’s how I got into organ music. I grew to love the instrument, and that’s what I wanted to do afterward. After finishing the training, I decided to do a course at university that’d give me a bachelor’s degree in church music, and that’s what I did. At that time, especially with the COVID situation, I started a YouTube channel. That’s the channel I’m working on today. I kind of grew into making and posting videos on YouTube. My channel grew and eventually became my full-time job. It all happened quite fast. I post my stuff on YouTube, and people seem to enjoy it, so I consider myself very lucky. I’ve been doing this for three years now. Although I have a degree in office administration, I wouldn’t go back to it.
How would you describe what music means to you?
I think about music as a way to communicate feelings you usually wouldn’t be able to convey with words, at least not in a way you can do it with music. In church, you can really influence how people feel with your music. There’s a great power with all kinds of music in influencing people with feelings and emotions. That’s like a superpower people don’t seem to understand, especially non-musicians, I guess. That’s what I want to do with my music. I want to make people happy and have fun myself doing it.
What would you say your goal in music is?
I don’t really have a goal, to be honest. I think as long as I’m enjoying what I’m doing, I’m doing the right thing. My goal is to be happy with what I’m doing, and I’m happy with my music and playing.
April 24, 2024
Champions: Isabella Velasquez, A Rising Star in the Making
In this interview, we talk with Isabella Velasquez, an inspiring talented young singer who fell in love with music at a young age. From singing along to Disney princess movies to dreaming of performing on big stages, Isabella shares her journey, aspirations, and passion for music in this interview. Additionally, Isabella recently showcased her talent as one of the semi-finalists on the TV show La Voz Kids Colombia, adding to her remarkable musical journey.
How did you find out about Make Music Day?
I’d seen it on social media, on Instagram. Also, some friends had recommended it to me. It looked really cool and fun, so I decided to try it out.
How was your experience at Make Music Day?
I think I’ve participated three times in the last few years. The experience was really fun, I had a really good time. I remember the first time was an open yard concert in a venue near the Brickell train station, the second time was at a venue in Miami Beach, near the Normandy Fountain, and the third time the event was at Lincoln Road in South Beach. They were all great experiences.
How did you start making music?
It all began when I was just three years old. My dad noticed my love for singing; I’d often sing along with the characters in Disney princess movies. So, when I turned four, he enrolled me in vocal lessons. I also did some theater at that age. From there, I really took off with my voice career; I started singing more and landing gigs. I even received a scholarship from the Little Dreams Foundation. This opportunity allowed me to attend classes with other talented kids and perform at various venues and malls. When I was six, I had my first-ever performance at the Miami Beach Youth Festival.
Which particular performance made you realize, “I want to pursue this as a career”?
I was really nervous. I didn’t know what to expect. Honestly, I thought people wouldn’t be listening, or that there wouldn’t be anyone there. But, as soon as I stepped on stage, everyone was so supportive, and there were people there. I felt excited and happy; all the nervousness and jitters went away. Stepping off stage, I realized how much happier and filled with adrenaline I felt. That’s when I knew I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.
Do you also play instruments or do you just sing for now?
I started playing the piano when I was seven or six as well, and I started playing the acoustic guitar during the Pandemic.
And what genres do you enjoy playing? I believe you play a lot of pop music, right?
Yeah, I mainly sign pop. When I perform, I accompany myself on the piano and guitar. The choice of instrument depends on the song I’m singing. I sing a wide variety of songs, but it’s mostly pop, including American and Latin pop.
I believe you have some original music out. How was the journey of creating your own music?
I’ll tell you how it started. In 2020, I participated in the TV show “Pequeños Gigantes”. I made it to the finals as a nine-year-old, but the show canceled the final due to COVID. Since I had really engaged with music during those months of the show, when the pandemic came, I started composing music at home. I also did live streams. My dad helped me during the process of composing and creating lyrics and melodies. During that time, I got the idea of creating a song that had a happy and motivating feel to it, to face this difficult time that everyone was experiencing. My dad and I wrote this song together called “Never Give Up,” which in Spanish is called “No dudes más”. We partnered with a great producer and released my first song. From there, I kept making more and more songs.
Is your plan in life to be a full-time musician? Or is there something else you’d like to study on the side?
My dream career would be to be a professional singer. That’s the big dream, that’s the goal. If that doesn’t work out, I think I’d like to be a pediatrician.
How would you describe what music means to you?
Music is something that brings me a lot of joy and happiness. It’s a source of comfort for me. Whenever I’m feeling sad, stressed, or upset, I can always rely on music because it’s something that I’ve connected with since I was young. It’s been a constant presence in my life.
What would you say your goal in music is?
I think my goal in music would be to become an internationally recognized singer like Shakira, Ariana Grande, or Whitney Houston— one of the big names. I want to perform on all the major stages I’ve dreamed of since I was little, inspiring people worldwide, and having large tours in big stadiums.