chanteuse Archives - Music Dept

Where are you based?

New York (LIC)

Which instruments do you play? Do you sing?

I’m a singer and an upright bass player in becoming.

Tell us a bit about your musical background.

I first touched a piano when I was 7 years old. It was very special; I was super introverted and the piano was like a friend who really understood me. I always sang but never “seriously” until about 15 years ago when a teacher encouraged and pushed me towards theater. The music and the stage was what made it all come together for me. Fast forward to about 10 years ago when I came to NYC to study “Performing Arts” at the American Musical & Dramatic Academy (AMDA) and went on to forming my own bands and performing a bit everywhere.

What are your favorite styles to play?

I love to sing in general but I have an inclination towards french Jazz, songs from the American Songbook, cabaret, latin and classical works.

Are there any recent performances that were extra special for you? Or any venues you particularly love?

I’ve performed with my all-female international band MARIPOSA at City Winery; we honored some female composers & musical artists and that was very special!!

Have you recorded any albums, EPs or singles?

“Voyages”: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/myriamphiro2

“My Reverie…”: https://store.cdbaby.com/cd/myriamphiro

Do you have any exciting projects or upcoming gigs on the horizon?

I’ll be performing my Edith Piaf tribute show at Birdland Theater on May 19th 2019 at 7.30pm! Mark your calendar :)

If you had to pick one each, what would you say are the best and worst things about being a professional musician?

The uncertainty of it all are both the best and the worst things about being a professional musician, ha! All joking aside, I love to be able to do what I truly love for a living and never get tired of it but sometimes the lack of appreciation some people have for musicians and the music can be very taxing in certain contexts. Also, the uncertainty is definitely a little stressful sometimes ;)

What have you been listening to lately?

Since I’m prepping for my Piaf show, I’ve been listening to her (Edith Piaf), as well as renders of her songbook such as “Kaas chante Piaf” which is a treat, but also to a lot of Pink Martini (my favorite band), Ella Fitzgerald live in Berlin (one of my favorite albums), Nat King Cole (it’s his birthday today) and always to “Buena Vista Social Club” who accompany my every moment.

Where can people follow your work?

https://www.jazzsingernyc.com/

https://www.facebook.com/MyriamPhiro/

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Featured Artist Interview – Myriam Phiro