We recently had the chance to connect with Geno Stroia II and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Geno, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I just finished playing bass in both bands on a double bill at Antone’s in Austin, TX which is always special.
The Damn Torpedoes (A tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers) and Camp Mellen (John Mellencamp tribute). Great crowd, both bands played great and we had a ball. A good nights sleep was well-earned! 🎸
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Geno Stroia. Owner/Instructor at Red Leaf School of Music and long-time musician based in Austin, TX.
Current projects are original material under my own name and Bassist for long-time Austin tribute band, The Damn Torpedoes (A tribute to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers) and the newly formed Camp Mellen (John Mellencamp tribute).
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I would say in my 20s and 30s I definitely needed validated and success to feel like I “belonged” in trying to play music for a living. As I have gotten older, I’m “gradually” growing more comfortable in my own skin and abilities.
I find I now get the same level of creative satisfaction fixing something or working on a non-musical project. I can feel accomplished and creative in many ways. I don’t have to only get it from gigs, recording, etc. I still love those things but I’m not chasing anything these days.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Many times. I tried to learn to stay even keeled, believe in myself, enjoy the moment more and don’t over think it or hold on too tightly.
Our minds can really do a number on us if we allow it.
Don’t believe everything you think.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Maintaining relationships and connections. I’ve always been the person that gathers others together.
When I was a kid, I was the one that made calls to round the gang up to play baseball, football, basketball, whatever.
I’m still like that – I enjoy staying in touch with people. I have more recently tried to let go of some of that in the interest of self-preservation. Sometimes relationships have a shelf-life, and it’s ok to let those go. But, that’s not in my nature so I have had to work at that.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you understand deeply that most people don’t?
That tomorrow is promised to no one and that here and now is all there really is. Time is the one commodity that can’t be bought. You can’t buy more time.
I just try to keep moving at a steady pace and continue for as along as I can. Windows open, windows close- and they don’t always let you know when they will or won’t open again, so make it count.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.redleafschoolofmusic.com
- Instagram: Gstroia2
- Linkedin: Geno Stroia
- Facebook: Geno Stroia
- Soundcloud: Geno Stroia II
Image Credits
Various friends and fans
