We’re looking forward to introducing you to Claire Glass. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Claire, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: Who are you learning from right now?
I am lucky to be a part of a community of artists and musicians in Austin whom I learn from every day. Not just skill-wise, but also how to be in community: support each other, plan events, be curious about each other. It’s more important than ever to stay connected and present in community, and art is an excellent way to communicate with each other and get together.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a musician, and all my work is related to music in some way. I manage the Music and Healing Program at Austin Classical Guitar, which pairs local musicians with people wanting an outlet for expression, to make an original song. We usually work with people who are going through a hardship, whether it’s medical, emotional, financial, etc. We believe in the power of healing through music, and let clients be wherever they are in that healing process. Sometimes the songs created in the program are celebratory and/or empowering, and sometimes they provide an outlet for grief or frustrations. And, sometimes they’re silly! We are also a satellite partner with Carnegie Hall on The Lullaby Project, which is songwriting specifically with new or expecting mothers.
Outside of that, I am also a touring musician, and play with bands Black Belt Eagle Scout, Hikes, and Covet. I also have a solo project called Claire Glass.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I believe that communication is key to everything. That doesn’t mean that every relationship is compatible, but with clear communication, you can see which relationships work and which ones don’t. If you and someone else have conflicting needs and goals, it may be time to let them go. However, many times people have similar goals, but it’s the communication and process that are not lining up, which I believe are fixable.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
During COVID lockdown, all touring and work stopped. I had been pretty much on the road for 10 years at that point, and I was burned out. I felt resentful towards the music industry, and what I felt it required of me. I suddenly had time to reflect on my life choices, rather than life just happening. I was very close to giving up on music entirely, but instead, I evaluated how I was operating in that world. I realized that I was burned out because I had been doing what I thought I was ‘supposed’ to do: give your everything all the time. I hadn’t been taking care of myself, and had just been going with the flow. During my reflection, I realized that if I were to keep doing music, I would have to actively choose it, not just let it happen to me. Since then I have taken charge of my career and made it into something that works for me, not that works for other people.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
No, and I think that is a necessary distinction for me, and for many artists. The critique that comes with making art is harsh, and sometimes unfair, and I need a separation between work and self. It also allows an artist to break out of limitations created by personal identity.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, and I think as an artist this is a crucial part of the creative process. Create as if no one will hear it. It’s easy to self-edit before even getting the ideas out, and that can lead to a perfectionist quagmire.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://austinclassicalguitar.org/acg-music-and-healing/ https://www.hikes.band
- Instagram: @_claire_glass_
- Other: bandcamp:
https://claireglass.bandcamp.com/album/dustSpotify:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/73h3FEax0vcG1rEIB1QLBY
Image Credits
#4 Montsho Thoth
