Student Band Plays Impressive Set at 2023 Blues Festival

Each year the New York State Blues Festival puts together a band made up of students from CNY, called Blues Ignition, to perform at the big event. Following a break in the program during the pandemic, the project gained new momentum this year, with the addition of local blues musician and former festival director, Todd Fitzsimmons, stepping in as band director. Performing as a trio, the 2023 edition of the group consisted of Mira Grimm (guitar, bass, vocals, songwriting), Anthony Vazquez (guitar, bass, vocals), and Joey Trovato (drums). Their impressive set included a great mix of classic and modern blues covers as a well a couple of Grimm originals. All three of the students will still be in school this coming year and we are excited to see their continued progress. This program is made possible by a grant from The Gifford Foundation.

Blues Ignition Members had this to say about the program and experience:

What did it mean to be one of the opening acts for blues legend Buddy Guy?

It was really cool! Just having the opportunity to play on a big stage at The NYS Blues Festival was amazing, and I felt so incredibly grateful to be one of the opening acts for someone so big in the blues community.

How has the Blues Ignition program benefited your musical development?

The Blues Ignition program has given me the opportunity to connect with other young blues musicians around my age and because of that I was able to form my own band, Mira Grimm & The Reapers, with the same people I met through the Blues Ignition program. The program also taught me more about fronting a band and doing things to keep the audience engaged. Todd Fitzsimmons definitely was a big part of all of our musical development through this program and told us about his personal experiences with the music community.

What was the highlight of your Blues Ignition experience this year?

There were a lot of great moments but If I were to pick one I would have to say going up on stage and performing just how we envisioned, and practiced it.

How has participating in the program helped your musical development?

Previously I have only really worked with musicians older than me. This opportunity has given me the chance to work with musicians my own age. As a band we learned to make compromises so we could all sound the best possible.

What was your favorite part of being in Blues Ignition this year?

My favorite part of being with the Blues Ignition this year was getting the opportunity to meet other musicians like myself. We became good friends and continue to play together as a band.

Would you recommend the program to other young musicians?

I would recommend the program to other musicians as it’s such a great experience and the mentors taught me so much more about music. It’s an experience I would remember for a lifetime.