Today we’d like to introduce you to Mariea Antoinette.
Hi Mariea, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started out taking piano lessons at my church and singing in the children’s gospel choir every Saturday, it was a requirement in our home to have music a part of our upbringing. I took piano lessons as a student, and I loved music deeply especially the gospel choir. My parents had me enrolled in an all-girl private catholic school. One month out of the year we had music month where the school brough in instruments from the symphony to demonstrate the various sounds and repertoire. On one of these demos, the harp came in, the harpist played Debussy- First Arabesque, I was floored by the beauty of the instrument and its sound. I was captivated. There was something majestic about it that I couldn’t explain. I immediately knew that I wanted to learn and master the instrument. I inquired about private lessons, the harpist shared that she only took serious students that was willing to practice and do the necessary work. I went home to share the news about my new interest. My parents knew nothing about the harp and had never seen or heard it. I was informed that they were not onboard with this adventure. I was able to secure a harp rental on my own and pay for lessons by working in my brother’s restaurant after school. Once I began playing, I realized it wasn’t just an instrument- it became my voice. Music gave me a way to express emotions that words couldn’t. I didn’t choose the harp; I truly believe the harp chose me. My foundation was classical music and through many performance opportunities, the church and orchestra and after several years of study privately and at U.C.S, D, and University of Arizona, Tucson, I decided to pivot into smooth jazz and R/B music. I studied with a well-known music producer here in San Diego and was able to watch and be mentored by him as he produced other artists. He produced my first project, and I took that and sent it to a national radio promotion company. They were reluctant because you did not see the harp being played in that genre of music on national radio, however my sound was dynamic, unique and very cool, they took a chance and said OK, I was on the radio worldwide, my phone began to ring with radio stations worldwide wanting interviews. I knew then I had something special, Here I am four albums later with Three top No.1 Billboard hits, travelling, performing, across the USA and Africa. I have performed in many prestigious venues including performing for the First Lady of the United States Michele Obama and have collaborated and shared the stage with many amazing artists. I am continuing to evolve musically. Theres is many more chapters in my journey. I’ll send that with my complete bio.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There is no such thing as a smooth road for a female African- American musician. This is a male dominated industry for starters. in a nutshell the amount of pushback I received because of race in a classical genre and jazz space. I definitely wore a bullet proof vest. I had to prove I could play, then jealousy came next. I could write a book on the struggles alone. As a Black woman playing an instrument many people don’t expect to see, I realized I wasn’t just representing myself- I was expanding what’s possible for the next generation. I’m not just changing how people hear the harp-I’m changing who believes they can play it. It’s about embracing exactly who you are without apology. I wanted to create music that felt elegant but powerful. Sophisticated but fearless. To walk in every room knowing your gifts deserve to be there.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a smooth jazz R/B harpist, I perform concerts at jazz festivals, high end corporate events, with my band or as a soloist.
I specialize in popular, original, world music. I am most proud of my journey and what it has taught me about perseverance and discipline, having a crystal-clear vision as to what you want and walking the path regardless to achieve of any obstacle’s put in front of you.
What sets me apart from others is I am unique, my music unique, my skill set is off the charts my talent is exceptional, my personally is cool. My beauty is stunning, my musical presentation is powerful and inspiring, I have a love of books and travel
i enjoy going to the schools and motivating the children to follow their dreams. I’ve learned that people will often underestimate what they’ve never seen before. Instead of trying to convince them, I simply let the music speak
Performing in Africa was unforgettable because I felt connected to history and culture in a profound way. Every country has embraced the harp differently, but what amazed me the most was realizing that music transcends language.
People often think they know what a harp sounds like until they hear mine. Then they realize the harp can groove, sing, dance, and even funk.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
its a matter of how they want to work and collaborate with me, anything can be worked out. You can support by sharing and downloading my music with others, if you are in a position to hire me or my band.
Promoter, executive producer. I would love a great, knowledgeable world class marketing musical team
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.marieaantoinette.com
