Local artist profile: Mia Mazzarella

THIS week we chat with the superb up-and-coming local singer and guitarist Mia Mazzarella.

What motivated you to become a musician?

I’ve been lucky enough to have been around different genres of music and lots of live music regularly since I was younger. I also come from a very talented, musical family, which has ultimately led to music becoming so natural in my life, it’s like breathing. I don’t think I could live without it.

How would you describe your style?

I would say my style is more towards the Australian indie genre at the moment, but the best part of music is that it can be whatever you make it to be!

I’ve been making music for years now and while it’s changed since I wrote my first song, I feel as though my musical stimulus throughout the years has allowed me to keep my music similar to the stuff I am listening to at the time.

Which other bands/musicians inspire you?

I think it’s an Australian music cliche to be inspired by Missy Higgins, but she has been one of my biggest influences musically since I was a little girl. I have lots of memories associated with her music and I’ve always admired the blatant Aussie accent she has when she sings.

I also take a lot of inspiration from other Australian artists, such as Julia Jacklin, Ball Park Music, Ruby Fields and Thelma Plum.

What are some highlights you have from your career?

Music is so special in the fact that a song can take you back to a particular moment in your life.

I’ve been very lucky in my little music career that I’ve had many opportunities offered to me since I was a fresh-faced artist.

Every time I hear Missy Higgins’ Scar, I’m reminded of my first solo, public performance, where I’m sure I sang a fairly pitchy rendition.

Shortly after this performance, I started taking guitar lessons, which is where the beginning of my music career started to blossom into what it is today.

As I’ve gotten older, my music has been a very special part of who I am. In 2020 I played my first Blues & Roots Festival, run by the legend, Colin Thompson. Through the BBRMF, I have performed alongside some of Bendigo’s best musicians and formed some of my greatest friendships.

I have since joined the lovely Flora and The Band in recording their upcoming album – stay tuned!

How can people find you online?

I can be found on Instagram and Facebook under the usernames mia_mazzarella_music/Mia Mazzarella Music.

Do you have any gigs coming up?

At this point, I’m looking forward to playing the Gold Rock Festival, a new local festival at Handle Bar on 1 April from 3pm.

What would you say to young aspiring musicians who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

The best advice I could give to anyone who is thinking of getting into music is to just do it! There is something so special about being able to play and create music, and the opportunities tend to present themselves when you least expect it and great things can become of that.

If music is something you enjoy and you want to be involved, then absolutely you should aim for that because it really is one of the greatest things I could ever recommend.