YEAR: Graduate Student
MAJOR: English
HOMETOWN: Babylon, N.Y.
How long have you been playing accordian?
I’ve been playing accordian for four years. When I was 20 my mom bought one at a garage sale and I started playing it. I was listening to bands like The Deceberists and Neutral Milk Hotel.
Did you teach yourself?
Yes. I got a lot of sheet music and learned how to read. I also watched a lot of YouTube videos. Once you get the rhythms of each song, they’re all set-up to be relatively easy to play.
Have you been performing out?
I played out a couple times at open mics, a Rhino Records show and a gig at Salvation Recording Co.
What do you plan to do with the accordian?
I’m going to Europe in February and I’m going to busk for a couple of months. I got some percussion stuff for my feet. I think it’ll be a neat little gig.
Who are your influences?
Yann Tiersen. Jacques Brel. A Hawk & A Hacksaw. Beirut.
Any advice for aspiring musicians?
Practice and record your songs and give them to people. Get your stuff out there ‘cause it’s the only way to do it.