Interview: Kat Orlando

Congrats on your recent music release!

Thank you, I’m super proud of it!

How did your musical journey begin? What initially sparked your interest in music?

As a listener, an observer or fan. It was how I played. I was singing and dancing along to records, the radio, in front of a mirror as a child. Then I picked up the flute, and later the sax. I had tried playing harmonica at 8 yrs. old. I revisited that much later.

Can you describe some of the pivotal moments or turning points in your artistic development?

Joining my first bands. It was an unforgettable moment when you realize that maybe this is something you can do and hopefully get better at it. My Dad buying my first flute, me renting my first sax were important, too. I decided I was going to spend a lot of time learning. I think I knew back then that I wasn’t going to be the greatest at singing, so I wanted to expand my hir-ability with playing. At first it worked against me. I found a great teacher and mentor, Jazz sax player George Keith, who taught me theory. He helped me ignore some of the push back I’d be getting from some ego rocker types I encountered then. Trying to be an all-around performer worked in my favor later on.

How have your musical tastes and influences evolved over time?

Early 60s pop on AM radio, Girl groups, the Beatles, Motown, British Invasion, psychedelic rock, Black R&B and soul. Any Jazz that comes through in my playing, is really from my teacher, as far as phrasing and theory.

Are there any specific experiences or challenges that have shaped your artistic identity?

I never believed in negative reinforcement as a teaching method. But the nay sayers do manage to only get you mad enough to make you work harder. Then you just accept you have to take a good amount of rejection along the way, in one form or another, anyway.

What role does experimentation play in your creative process?

Jamming is the experimental part. It IS the creative process really. You have to play around. It could be a lyric or riff to a beat. You could hit on something right away or you mess with it, walk away, come back to it and find something that works

Can you share a particularly meaningful or memorable performance or recording session from your journey?

My last 4 EPS: the sessions were an experience in the studio. Especially when you watch pros take your songs and elevate them. Doing the foundations tracks live is the best. Other times I’ve handed it over to the producer and his crew and they did the same. I added my parts afterward. As far as “live” I’d say I’ve gotten the best feeling performing when we’re in Fla. The audiences have been so responsive.

Are there any recurring themes or concepts that you find yourself exploring in your music?

Some songs of mine are addressing issues of today, sort of protest songs without being overtly literal and maintaining the artist in me. Others I’ve been writing from the third person point of view, feelings I imagine someone else having, or ones I’ve experienced at one time or another.

How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new music?

I listen to my musical idols. I’ll do other things to take in beauty (kayaking, roller blading, walking, painting) or let my mind slow down to observe more. Once again, maybe just play with words or notes on keyboard or other instruments.

Looking back on your journey so far, what are some lessons or insights you’ve gained about yourself as an artist?

That I’m at a point where I’m not going to fight the fact that I am a musician and I enjoy it. I’ve tried to do other things. This is what ultimately paid off, even though I’ve never reached the point or the definition of “making it” in music. I still use my other skills, graphic design for my business and a few side projects.