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In conversation with Chiara Maria: finding her way back to music
“Since I was a little girl, I have always loved singing. I started songwriting at the age of seven. The first song was ‘The Hamster Song,’” Chiara Maria confessed, laughing. “After that, it was just like a way for me to process my emotions, but I never told anyone about it. I didn’t want anyone…
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In conversation with Amanda Conti: the personal and professional pieces of songwriting
Of all things, it was an Instagram ad that brought the nonprofit RiverJAM Music to Amanda Conti’s attention. “I don’t know how I saw [the ad],” she explained. “And it was such funny timing because the night before, I just had a whole breakdown about the fact that I felt very disconnected from myself as…
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RiverJAM Music’s Songs & Stories showcases three generations of guitar virtuosity
Red Bank, NJ, saw three generations of guitar talent perform at RiverJAM Music’s Listening Room: Songs & Stories concert on March 25. With Pat Guadagno, Johnny Kasun, and Luke Brindley showing off their fingerpicking skills, the venue was filled with the type of infectious melodies only a guitar can produce. The night began with Reagan…
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In conversation with Kyra Soto: finding confidence in first drafts
Kyra Soto is no stranger to performing. Where some shy in front of the lens of a camera or the idea of being perceived, she thrives. “I grew up within the arts, and I’ve always just loved being in front of cameras.” She immediately recounts the Nickelodeon show iCarly, which served as the OG average-person-to-influencer…
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In conversation with Luke Brindley: living for the music
Music is second nature for Luke Brindley. From growing up in a music-centric family in North Jersey to studying the art in school, it’s almost as if music is the sun and Brindley lives in its orbit. “My parents were amateur musicians,” Brindley explained, “and I played in a duo with my brother. Music, and…
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In conversation with Nectarine Girl: hyperfixations and ‘Good Excuses for Laziness’
Nectarine Girl’s name stems from a two-week hyperfixation on her namesake fruit, which gradually grew to represent the sensitive girl she is on the inside. If she had to change her name to her current obsession, though, she says it would be Orchids. “I’m excited about the challenge,” she says, the smile evident in her…
Focused on the next big thing
