Welcome to The Foxgrove, where we believe that everyone has the potential to create music. On the one-year anniversary of our founding, meet our latest class of newly minted electronic music makers.
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Cristal Marie is a Dominican recording artist, songwriter, performer, actor and musician best known for singing the theme to NBC/Telemundo’s telenovela “Pecados Ajenos” and for playing Snow White in the acclaimed Latin American adaptation of “Disenchanted.”
Describe your relationship to music.
When it comes to music, there are no boundaries. I've gone from prog rock/metal frontwoman to jazz vocalist to Latin pop artist. Music is my life and my language, my family and my lover. I can't live without it or go a day without creating it. It's what I'm here for. It's why I'm alive.
What brought you to The Foxgrove?
I wanted [the tools] to take control of my musical ideas and my vision as an artist. I'm a team player and I've been in the music industry for a while, so I've always had a collaborative spirit and could easily adapt to projects—but when it came to establishing my own voice, I found myself lacking. The Foxgrove has given me the power to find that voice, and to master it. I've taken every level of Electronic Music Production and continue with private instruction.
Describe your experience at The Foxgrove.
My experience at The Foxgrove has been eye-opening and humbling. I know I still have a lot to learn, but The Foxgrove managed to make something that looked forever out of reach accessible and fun. It's not enough to learn the software. I really believe in the power of a good mentor, and in my case, I’ve been inspired by my teacher Ben. His passion for music and his desire to open the door of music production for everyone really embodies the entire philosophy behind The Foxgrove.
Who or what inspires you?
My creative inspiration has always been people. People who change, evolve, transform and never give up. Right now I'm listening to M.I.A., G-Dragon, Poeta Callejero, Shirley Manson, Grimes and David Bowie.
Any future musical projects?
I'm currently developing a soundtrack for a major network and was recently invited to join a girl group. I'm taking things one step at a time. I've met so many amazing creative people here that there will definitely be some collaborations.
What are your other loves, besides music?
I love books, bars and vampires. I probably read too much Anne Rice in my youth, but whatever. I like what I like. I'm also really good at playing Super Smash Bros. Games with Jigglypuff. Yes, Jigglypuff.
Tell us a fun fact about you.
I have a secret tattoo. I haven't finished it yet, because needles scare the hell out of me, but I will finish that tattoo. I will. Definitely. Maybe. I started it for a reason, but that’s a story for another day…
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Get in touch with your inner creativity, join the new breed of music-makers by taking a class with us at The Foxgrove.
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This gem is brought to you by The Hunt, The Foxgrove's blog that looks into the electronic music and DJ world in the lenses of fashion, lifestyle, art and culture. If you'd like to contribute, find us at info@thefoxgrove.com.