New York News

The Berklee New York Alumni Chapter kicked off the year with a new regular event, the New York Alumni Circle at the Cutting Room on Monday, February 4. The event was organized and hosted by alumnus Jaime Garamella ’06. The show culminated with a group of alumni singer/songwriters performing original songs in a Nashville-style circle, sharing the stage and their extraordinary talent with fellow alumni and the general public. The performers included N.Y. Songwriter’s Forum Chair Brooke Fox ’98, recent alumna Katie Locke ’06, singer/songwriter Jonathan Neufeld ’00, and Garamella. Celtic harpist and singer/songwriter Maeve Gilchrist ’06 wowed the audience with her unique singing and harp style on original and traditional songs. Stay tuned for more information on the monthly N.Y. Alumni Circle events that are generously hosted by the Cutting Room. (The club is jointly owned by alumnus Steve Walters and actor Chris Noth.) These events will feature many different styles of music, including jazz, rock, and rap. To be considered for a performance at a future event, contact Jaime Garamella at jaimegaramella@yahoo.com.

In other chapater news, on Tuesday, March 4, the annual tax preparation seminar for musicians took place at the New York Hilton Hotel. Associate Professor Martin Dennehy traveled from Boston to share his knowledge and answer questions from alumni about tax preparation for music professionals.

Finally, the Berklee New York Alumni Chapter planning team needs committed volunteers who are interested in planning events and sharing their expertise. We love to see our chapter planning team grow and encourage your participation. If you’re serious about getting involved in planning events, contact Lisa Hearns at lhearns@berklee.net, or call Berklee’s NY Chapter hotline at (877) 423-7553. For more information on upcoming events, visit Berklee’s alumni website at www.alumni.berklee.edu.

—Lisa Hearns, New York Alumni Chapter Leader