Shelbie Rassler Visits Section 36!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Shelbie Rassler is a talented composer and musician. I was excited she was willing to visit with us and discuss her musical accomplishments and more. I’m sure you’ll love what she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when Shelbie Rassler visits Section 36!

You composed the score for the movie: “Titan”. What was that experience like?

Writing the score for "Titan" was an incredible experience! I really enjoyed working with the director, Lee Giat, as he is such a creative collaborator. Lee was really able to communicate his vision for the music in an effective manner and it was such a joy to bring his ideas to life. I was also able to collaborate with some amazing musicians to record the score, including violinist Gioia Gedicks, cellist Matthew Henegan and vocalist Andrea Taylor. The score would not have been possible without these integral people! 

You also wrote the score to a Lexus commercial. How did that differ from scoring a film?

Writing the score for the Lexus Chatham Parkway commercial was also a fantastic experience! The director, Josh Prem, and I had a wonderful time discussing the project, and Josh gave me the freedom to write what I felt fit the commercial best. We also collaborated on a documentary for Lexus Chatham Parkway and had a similarly amazing experience. 

You co-wrote a musical “Voices: a new musical” that played last fall. What was it like to bring that to the stage?

Writing and producing "Voices: a new musical" with my writing partner, Harley Seger, was truly a dream come true. We wrote the entire show in under a year and had the opportunity to workshop some of the music last Spring and produce the full show this past November through the New Ground Theatre Company at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee. I am especially grateful towards the four girls who originated the role of Maddie/Madelyn, Mia Goodman, Rachel Da Silva, Kate Fitzgerald and Annaliese Wilbur, for their hard work in giving life to this dynamic character. Writing the score was a unique challenge as it was my first time ever writing a musical theatre score by myself, but it was an incredible learning experience, and both Harley and I are really proud of the show!

I love the “one-woman band” videos you post on social media where you play multiple instruments. What is it like to put those together?

Thank you very much! I actually began making those videos when I was in middle school and have had so much fun making them over the years. I usually just listen to music that I love and try to add my own spin to it. I often will start by improvising on various instruments until I have a solid idea of what I'd like to do, and then I write out the arrangement, record all of the instruments, and layer everything using Logic Pro X. I am going to be creating a cover series very soon of the "one-woman band" videos so please stay tuned and feel free to request cover suggestions!

As a composer, what’s it like to hear a full orchestra perform your song live?

The first time I heard an orchestra perform my music live was a very surreal experience. It was hard to wrap my brain around the fact that all of those people were playing something that I created! Ever since that moment in 2015, I very much try to keep that same mentality whenever an orchestra plays my music. I am so grateful to the musicians for taking the time to learn and perform the music and try to make each experience as new and exciting as possible.

Right now, what would you say is your biggest career challenge?

As I am writing this, the world is in a state of emergency as we navigate this scary pandemic together. With that being said, I am trying my best to remain positive and optimistic, but it is honestly very hard to do so, especially as a musician where it is a challenge to take classes online and impossible to create music in-person with colleagues. However, I recently started a "Virtual Orchestra" project to try and keep the arts alive and promote collaboration, even when we are not able to physically be together. Stay tuned for updates on this project!

What are your immediate career goals?

My immediate career goals during this unprecedented time include promoting positivity in the arts and creating a platform for artists and creators to come together and maintain hope for the future!

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That’s a wonderful goal!

In fact, along those lines, Shelbie did something pretty fantastic since she did her interview. You may have seen the amazing video she put together of fellow Berklee students performing in a virtual concert. If you’re one of the few people in the world who hasn’t seen it yet, check it out now. You won’t regret it.

As always, I want to thank Shelbie for visiting, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. They make everything come together so well.

Since I know you’ll want to follow along with Shelbie to see what she's up to, I suggest check out her Instagram account and YouTube channel. Give them both a follow!

You should also check out her Section 36 Music page. There you'll find more links, pictures, and samples of her music. It's a great way to enjoy everything Shelbie has to offer.

Thanks again Shelbie, and good luck in reaching your goals! 

Victoria Barral Visits Section 36!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Victoria Barral is a talented singer, and I was excited she was willing to visit with us and discuss her musical releases and more. I’m sure you’ll love what she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when Victoria Barral visits Section 36!

What do you consider your musical style or genre?

I consider my style to be a mixture of pop& R&B, but I also love to explore different genres! Usually people would say my singles are wholesome, but I would not consider myself a “Christian artist.”

I love your original song, “A Moment”. What can you tell me about it?

My new original song, A Moment is about reconnecting with God after going through some tough situations. Sometimes it’s hard to hear God’s voice and have that “moment” where you feel close to Him. But at the end of the day, everything works out and I realize I worry for nothing. 

Who/what do you consider your biggest musical influence?

One of my biggest influences would probably be Dermot Kennedy, who is originally from Ireland but considers himself to be pop/folk. His songwriting is just so rich and detailed. He really paints a picture with each and every one of his songs, and just one of the most amazing singer/songwriters. He became well know in Boston.  

You’re currently studying at Berklee College of Music. What is the most important thing to come out of that experience?

Going to Berklee College of Music is a blessing. I got so much out of the core music courses such as Harmony and Ear Training. I feel like I developed a better ear for music. I can really use that material to compose more creative music. 

Your social media feeds are full of wonderful informal videos of you singing anything from covers to original songs. What do you enjoy most about putting those together?

Thank you for supporting my social media feed! I really enjoy showing people what I’m working from a classical background but also songwriting background in a practice room setting. It’s very honest and just shows people how I sound without any microphones or any special equipment. It just really shows who I am as an artist.

Right now, what would you say is your biggest career challenge?
Right now, my biggest career challenge is making my family realize that music is a career! I want people to know it’s a God- given passion and it’s what I was created to do, and for a living. There’s so much you can do with music. and it’s not a waste of time. Also, being a young woman trying to put herself out there, is really hard to get exposure for my songs. It’s really hard to stand out, with the industry being highly competitive today. 

What are your immediate career goals?

My career goals right now, are to finish my Spring EP (which consist of 5 songs).  But also write more and more each day. I love to continuing  learning from so many people at Berklee that have decades more of experience than me, and most important, show don’t tell through my music!

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I can’t wait to hear that EP!

As always, I want to thank Victoria for visiting, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview.

Since I know you’ll want to follow along with Victoria to see what she's up to, I suggest check out her Instagram, account and give it a follow.

You should also check out her Section 36 Music page. There you'll find more links, pictures, and samples of her music. It's a great way to enjoy everything Victoria has to offer.

Thanks again Victoria, and good luck in reaching your goals! 

Annie Crosby Visits Section 36!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! I’ve been waiting a while to be able to talk to Annie Crosby about her music and singing career. I was so excited when we were finally able to make it work. I’m sure you’ll love what she has to say.

So, let's see what happens when Annie Crosby visits Section 36!

Your debut EP “Guard Up” will be coming out this summer. What can you tell me about it?

Ha, so, funny thing is I’m not even sure it’ll be called “Guard Up” anymore. I’m a perfectionist and I’m adamant about putting my absolute best work forward when it comes to a record, so it’s taken me a while to get into the studio; and in that time I’ve written so many other songs that are candidates for the EP. I can tell you I have a couple of songs that are brutally honest, a few songs that are playful and fun, and a few that are raw and evoke emotion. So we’ll see what makes the cut! 

When did you know that you wanted music to be a big part of your life?

As a kid I was always singing, and if you’d asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would have told you a performer- but as I aged I started to think I wasn’t good enough and chose safer routes. It wasn’t until a little over a year ago that I bought a guitar and started playing around and got brave enough to get on stage. I posted a few videos on Facebook and then was approached by Matt Ezyk, who has opened up so many doors for me, and he asked if I’d want to start a project with him. ”Old Town” was born and the rest is history! 

Who do you consider your biggest musical influence?

That’s so tough! I was lucky enough to have a family who has a great taste in music so I was raised on good ones- The Beatles, Janis, Joni, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan... and then being around horse farms my whole life I got into country music. I’d have to say Chris Stapleton and Maren Morris are my top 2 current artists though.

You’ve been able to perform live on several occasions. What do you enjoy most about being on stage?

I love it all- and it depends on what stage we’re talking about! When we have full band gigs I love the energy; I turn into another person who I really never thought I’d be. I love implementing new ways to get the crowd engaged and keep them entertained. For acoustic gigs, I love the intimacy; I love being able to play my originals and feel like people are listening... you just connect with people on a different level when it’s that mellow environment. 

Does one appearance stand out for you? Why?

A few do for different reasons. A couple of months into my career I was able to open for a national act, so that was a definite highlight. But it’s random gigs that stick out in my mind- the ones where people have come up to me afterwards and said something heartfelt. Those times are special to me.

Right now, what would you say is your biggest career challenge?

The balance!!! I’m a single mom, a realtor, and an executive assistant in my daytime life. Then as an artist you really have to wear so many different hats- you’re your own booking agent, social media manager, business manager... I find it very hard to keep up with the back-end stuff. I’m best at writing music and being on stage, the rest of it I have to force myself to work at. 

What are your immediate career goals?

Photo by Neil Letendre Photography

To get into the studio and start pumping out singles, get more original shows under my belt, spend more time in Nashville at the writers’ rounds... just to really be heard. I have so much to say through my music and I want to get to the highest platform possible to have that happen.

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I hope Annie will be able to reach those goals!

As always, I want to thank Annie for visiting, and for sending along so many perfect pictures to accompany the interview.

Since I know you’ll want to follow along with Annie to see what she's up to, I suggest check out all her online locations: her website, Instagram, and Facebook.

You should also check out her Section 36 Music page. There you'll find more links, pictures, and samples of her music. It's a great way to enjoy everything Annie has to offer.

Thanks again Annie, and good luck in reaching your goals! 

Danielle Starz Visits Section 36!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Danielle Starz is an incredibly talented singer, and I was excited that she was willing to talk with us about her inspirations, and her music.

So, let's see what happens when Danielle Starz visits Section 36!

It’s been just about a year since the release of your single, More. What can you tell me about that song?

This song was originally acoustic, just me and a guitar. It took me a long time to figure out what I wanted this record to sound like. I went through a few different versions before Marsini and I collaborated. I’m so happy with how it turned out! He’s a super talented producer and I think he really captured the perfect sound for the song. 

Is there any more studio work in your plans?

Absolutely! I record my own vocals and produce my songs in my home studio, and I work with an awesome team of professional engineers and producers who help me finalize the songs so I can share them with you! I’m currently finishing up my next single. I’m really excited for you to hear it!! 

You’re a student at Berklee College of Music. What is the most important thing that is doing for your career?

I feel like I listen to music in a whole different way after experiencing Berklee. I learned a whole new work ethic and I’m surrounded by so many amazing people every day. It’s a really inspiring environment and I feel like the music that I’m going to release soon is some of the best I have ever made before, thanks to what I’ve learned here. 

Who would you consider your musical influences?

Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Lana Del Rey, Amy Winehouse, The Beatles… the list goes on! I listen to so much music every day and I’m influenced by so many artists, producers and songs throughout time.

I really enjoyed the video you recently posted of your cover of Selena Gomez’s Rare. What was it like to put that together?

Thank you so much! It was completely fun making this. I love this song so much. Even though it was very basic- just my vocals and piano I do plan to make and release more covers soon. You’ll be able to find them on my IGTV and Youtube Channel!

Right now, what would you say is your biggest career challenge?

Transitioning from the singer-songwriter realm to the pop realm. Most of my career I have been very acoustic focused with my music. This past year I really wanted to step into the pop industry as an artist, so I’ve been studying a lot. The style, delivery, articulation, and everything the top songwriters and pop artists do.

What are your immediate career goals?

Continue to release covers that I enjoy! Currently I am

working on a solo project to be released later on this year. I have a few singles in the works as well. And my real short term goal is to be able to build a community through my art. I really want to bring people together.

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I hope Danielle will be able to reach those goals!

As always, I want to thank Danielle for visiting, and for sending along so many pictures to accompany the interview. They’re fantastic.

Since I know you’ll want to follow along with Danielle to see what she's up to, I suggest check out all her online locations: her website, Instagram, and Facebook. And, naturally, check out her music on Soundcloud.

You should also check out her Section 36 Music page. There you'll find more links, pictures, and samples of her music. It's a great way to enjoy everything Danielle has to offer.

Thanks again Danielle, and good luck in reaching your goals! 

Angela Wright Visits Section 36!

Section 36 Music has another visitor! Angela Wright is a fantastic singer, and I was excited that she wanted to talk with us about her singles and the rest of her music.

So, let's see what happens when Angela Wright visits Section 36!

You’ve released several singles over the last couple years. Is there one that means the most to you?

The single that means the most to me would have to be “Can You See Me Now”. The reason for that song being the most sentimental to me, is even though the song appears to be a love song, I actually wrote about my grandmother passing away from cancer. She and I always had a special relationship, and her passing took a big toll on me. In writing the song, I was balancing wanting to show someone far away how I was doing and capturing how I felt they would be feeling. Particularly describing how she tried to be strong for our family .“You smiled so happy, when you felt others near, because you never wanted us to be in fear”. This is always an emotional one to perform. 

Is there any more studio work in your plans?

I feel like I have been living in the studio these days. I am actually in the process of recording a new solo EP that should be expected to be released within this year. Stay tuned for a spring release!

You spent a year at Berklee College of Music. What was the most important thing to come out of that experience?

Berklee is a great spot for being surrounded with some of the most talented young musicians and creatives the world has to offer. The friendships, jam sessions and things you learn both inside and outside of class are so important for a young artist to be immersed in. I am so appreciative to have had that opportunity. 

You’ve been able to perform live on several occasions. What do you like most about being on stage?

Performing on stage has always been a passion of mine. When I was younger I would partake in every musical or play I could get involved in, both on or off stage. However, I have found true joy in being able to perform live the songs I write with other talented musicians. Nothing makes me feel better than the chemistry and energy coming from the performers and audience members. The audience and their support is what truly affects a performer. When I can make an impact on someone with my words, feelings, thoughts or voice, I feel like I have made a difference. 

Does any specific appearance stand out in your mind? Why?

My favorite experience performing was when I opened for AirSupply. We were at an outdoor amphitheater, and as we were waiting for the show to start, I was peeking from backstage and my heart was racing as I was watching thousands of people pile into the seats. As the adrenaline kicks in, I hear my name announced alongside the great AirSupply Band.  I walk out on stage the band wishes me good luck from backstage (they are the coolest!). I got to sing a couple of songs, and At the end of the show they brought me back out on stage for the encore bow and I got to shake hands with audience members from the stage. It was pretty incredible to perform with legends in front of thousands, but I was so touched that the audience actually wanted to engage with me post-show. 

Right now, what would you say is your biggest career challenge?

The biggest career challenge as an artist can be getting your music heard. We work so hard on the artistic part of making the music, but as a creative, it can be harder to work on the marketing. Releasing a song and not getting it the exposure you hope it deserves is very similar to the quote “If a tree falls in a forest and no one hears it does it really fall?”. 

What are your immediate career goals?

I am most passionate about making music I love, and hopefully other people will enjoy it alongside me in the process. Some of my immediate career goals are to wrap up this EP, which I’m feeling really good about, and then hitting the ground running with promoting it. I feel my songs are so relatable, I hope that I can get them to people that need them so that they know they are not alone in what they are feeling and we can build a community of music lovers and soul searchers.

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I hope we’ll all be able to help Angela out with those goals!

As always, I want to thank Angela for visiting, and for sending along the pictures to accompany the interview. They’re perfect.

Since I know you’ll want to follow along with Angela to see what she's up to, I suggest check out all her online locations: her website and Instagram.

You should also check out her Section 36 Music page. There you'll find more links, pictures, and samples of her music. It's a great way to enjoy everything Angela has to offer.

Thanks again Angela, and good luck in reaching your goals!