In this episode, Monica talks and plays with Brooklyn-based trombonist, writer, bandleader, and vocalist, Ginita (Benalcázar-López). We covered so many topics, including mentorship and breaking into a scene, reframing neurodivergent distractions as something to embrace rather than shame, how everything we do serves the art, and having some audacity to reach for the things we want. We also talked about the making of her new album - LA ORQUESTA ESA - recorded LIVE at The Jazz Gallery, advocating for yourself and for music you know will land with an audience, documenting the journey, and finding space to be seen. This episode is full of inspiration, laugher, and a guest appearance by one of her sweet cats!

https://ginabenalcazarlopez.com/

https://www.instagram.com/laorquestaesa

https://www.instagram.com/ginitaontrombone

This is episode 8 in the Creative Residency series, "Here, There, and Everywhere" where she talks and plays saxophone with 18 fellow jazz instrumentalist bandleaders who are women. This series is made possible by the Jazz Road Creative Residency grant organized by South Arts with support from the Doris Duke Foundation and the Mellon Foundation.

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Brave Musician® is a space for all musicians to share their stories and talk about what it means to be a human making music.

Created and facilitated by saxophonist, composer, visual artist, and bandleader Monica Shriver, Brave Musician® includes the Brave Musician® Podcast, various resources for creative confidence and artistic/personal development, and opportunities within the community to connect and support.

https://monicashriver.com/bravemusician