My First Open Mic [video]

I have been a performer my entire life, starting with piano at the age of 7 (or maybe singing and dancing for my grandma at age 2). However, I have never performed music I myself had written in public.

Having performed in orchestras for packed concert halls, it was a humbling experience to start over in this way. At Hellbender Brewery in DC I decided to do something new (performing my own compositions) on a new instrument (electric tenor guitar) with new technology in a new style for a completely new audience. It was completely intimidating, but I felt ready and bursting to share my ideas. Thankfully, I had my friends and wonderful husband there to cheer me on—and the only real mishap was forgetting my pick in my pocket.

The experience was so freeing! The crowd was supportive and offered great critique, and I felt proud of myself for finally having the courage to share my own art. Below is a clip from the second half of “Cat Feet.” It isn’t perfect (first time butterflies), but it is expressive and honest to my feelings in the moment.