WOMEN WHO MAKE WAVES 2024

Charmain Dennison

Synthesizer, Portable Keyboard and Digital Piano Marketing Manager at Yamaha Canada Music

With over 22 years of dedicated service at Yamaha Canada, Charmain's journey from a traditional conservatory piano student to becoming Yamaha Canada’s DMI product specialist -and eventually Canada's Keyboard Marketing Manager -is a testament to her resilience and passion. A trailblazer and one of the few women in her role, she emphasizes the importance of breaking down barriers in the music industry.

My driving force is a belief that I have something to offer based on my unique life experiences. I want to make a meaningful contribution in both my professional and personal life.
Playing music has instilled a discipline and creativity that I don’t know I would have otherwise found. It has been a source of therapeutic joy and has given me the confidence to assert myself, both on and off the stage.

Music is inherently inclusive as a universal language. Any lack of inclusivity is a result of created barriers. My mission is to set an example by being a black woman at the table, bringing diversity of experience and thought that naturally impacts the industry's culture.
I envision a world where my contributions inspire a diversity in the music industry that becomes the norm, not the exception.

My dream in the world of music is hard to articulate, but my message to a diverse audience is simple: Be the best at what you do. If you put your best out into the world, the world should give you back its best, too – don’t settle for less.

Cintia Concia

Drum artist, Leader of NPO “Ella suena”

Cintia started “Ella sueña”, a women empowering movement originally aimed to drum players, but later opened to other instruments. The pandemic encouraged the growth of her movement, which allowed the creation of the Festival International Ella Sueña, on the internet, with artists from all over the world. Thus, creating a net of around 500 women in music.

Also, Cintia and her husband promote the importance of men getting involved with the upbringing of children, so that more women can achieve their dreams of flourishing as musicians. In her own words:
“We’re moving on by being more aware of what happens to women: from wanting to be mothers, to having careers. This is changing the level of opportunities and that’s something that, us as women, must leverage on”.

Flávia Katerine Sousa Serqueira

Keyboardist

I started in music in a very different way from conventional methods, at the age of 10 I found a keyboard in the backyard of my house, and this awakened in me a huge desire to learn how to play it. Even with all the adversities and obstacles, I never stopped learning and seeking knowledge.

I am very inspired by my mother, as a warrior woman, as a mother, friend and especially an encourager of dreams, because she was the first person who pushed and encouraged me to believe that all this would be possible. Today I am also inspired by other women who make music, because I know that we encounter some difficulties precisely because we are women.

The music in my life teaches me several things, one of them is that we are capable of going beyond our dreams and that we cannot put limits on what we believe becomes possible.

I believe that more women should show their work to the world without fear of criticism or disapproval, thus encouraging and inspiring each other.
Today, women are even more present in this musical sphere, compared to a few years ago. It is very important to look with more empathy at our differences, not considering gender, but rather the work and effort done by each.
I always wish I can continue to inspire more women along my journey. We are the effort we make in the face of dreams that motivates us. The love for music transcends the genre barrier.

Ilse Santana

Drum artist

Ilse Santana is a professional drummer from México City, that earned her place with her playing skills in a country full of male drummers.

According to Ilse, the music industry can be helpful to create a more welcoming environment for women to be part of it:
“We must normalize the image of women being in front of the drums or any other instrument. For example, Mariachi women playing the guitarrón [Mexican bass guitar], or another woman playing the tuba, which are very heavy instruments. We just need to normalize it in social media, so that people see there’s nothing wrong with it, it’s truly natural for a woman deciding to become a musician, it’s as natural as becoming a doctor, a chef, or a fashion designer”.

Maria Finkelmeier

Percussionist, Composer, Educator, and New Media Artist

What attracted me to percussion in my early years was the idea that you can play anything. That’s something I think entrepreneurs can relate to. We’re always on the go, always curious.

I want to make stories through art and music that reflect our current times, using sounds and visuals that connect with how we experience the world today. As artists, we’re supposed to live in the world and then interpret it in some way. I believe it’s crucial to actively allow yourself to be open to inspiration, which can occur anywhere if you’re receptive to your surroundings.

Nina Vais

Violinist, Producer, and Performer

I’m Nina Vais, a violinist, producer, and performer from Argentina. I consider myself a sensitive, passionate person and I started playing violin at the age of ten, eventually becoming a classically trained violinist.

After suffering an injury that forced me to stop playing for three years, I studied conducting and music production until I realized I was more drawn to the playful, creative aspects of music. That is how I started my own project, which mixes classical music with current styles. Composing and playing music is my life mission, and I’m motivated by the desire to leave my mark on the world, moving my audiences and reaching them with my imagination.

I wish to foster solidarity among women, sisterhood instead of rivalry, and to convey to them the importance of following their dreams, honoring those who came before, and promoting unity, in order to strengthen their bonds as sisters and friends.

Aarti Phuloria

Music Teacher

I am a music lover, learner, and instructor at Delhi Public School Haldwani. I’ve been learning music for 20 years and teaching for 12 years. Music is everything in my life and it promotes emotional expression, improves memory and concentration, fosters teamwork through group performances, and can be a lifelong source of joy and fulfillment. Additionally, it has been linked to stress reduction and overall mental well-being.

To make the music industry more equal, we should prioritize diversity in leadership, support underrepresented artists, address pay disparities, and ensure fair representation across genres. My dream is to see a music industry where talent knows no boundaries, and everyone, regardless of background, has equal opportunities to share their unique voices and stories.

In the face of challenges, remember that strength often arises from adversity. Embrace each obstacle as an opportunity for growth, and know that your resilience can turn hurdles into steppingstones. You are capable, you are resilient, and you have the power to overcome. Keep pushing forward, and your journey will unfold with strength and success.
View the challenges as chapters in your story rather than roadblocks. Embrace the lessons they bring, for they shape your character and fortify your spirit. Remember, it's okay to ask for help, and seeking support is a sign of strength. Believe in your capabilities, stay focused on your goals, and trust that you have the inner strength to navigate through any storm. Your journey is uniquely yours, and every step forward is a testament to your courage and perseverance.

Kong Seong-yeon

Percussionist

I started music as I was being fascinated by the Marimba's tone and sound. Currently, I am studying and performing in Europe. Apart from the familiar environment, I’m trying to adapt to a new lifestyle and people around me. With these challenges, I learn how to communicate with the audience through various music performances.

It seems that the music field is also changing rapidly. A lot of female artists are raising their voices, and they're being accepted. We must bravely express opinions and pursue changes for each other. This is especially important because the field is also a world where diverse people live and work together. We need respect for each other, efforts to embrace diversity, and love for everyone. It will make a change.

I realize that the important thing is the fact that I am doing what I want - Music. I always want to live as an artist. I was able to keep my long-cherished dream because I focused on my mind and didn't give up only thinking about my goals. I would like to cheer for many female performers to dream bigger, experience the wider world, and play music to be heard far away, and not stop dreaming and live with dreams together.

My goal is to meet a more diverse audience and deliver the charm of percussion instruments further and wider. I hope that my music could penetrate their lives and communicate and exchange feelings and emotions through music. And I hope that it could be a small help in living throughout the world in any way.

Le Thi Quynh Thy (PAY)

Singer, Composer

I come from a musical family, and I am very connected and inspired by my parents. I realized I had a talent for singing and started studying music when I was young, and the guitar has been the instrument I've been attached to since then.

I feel grateful that I am now doing a job that I love. The more I go on the path of finding inspiration in music, the more I find and understand more about myself.
When I play music, I feel like I'm telling my own story with all my love and putting my soul into each melody. That is my strong suit.

As for music, I think just being dedicated to it and just doing that, you can easily break all barriers in the music industry, especially because music is for everyone. The necessary catalyst, in addition to my skills, is the gentle harmony and positive energy that I bring to everyone through my music.

Music is a way to express emotions and personality. I hope that all women in the world will always maintain the authenticity of their personalities and bring great values to as many people as possible, through their music.

Louisa Trewartha

Composer, Trumpet Player, Educator

I would feel lost without music! I need variety, hence why I juggle so many areas in my career. Particularly when I’m composing, I’m always curious to learn about new things.

I appreciate the connection to so many people – I now have hundreds of colleagues across the world.

The music industry is all about equity, not just equality. It’s important that people are given time to create and practice music. This means giving artists financial support to hone their skills, so that it is not just the privileged who end up in the field. This would help to empower a lot of women and girls.

Music is a slow-burn passion that I’ll continue to chip away at over a lifetime. I want to keep doing what I’m doing because I absolutely love it. Back yourself and be sure to surround yourself with people whose opinions you trust and respect.

LU Wen-Tze

Composer, Chair of the Department of Music in Chinese Cultural University

Music is like a liquid nutrient coursing through my body. In a contemporary society where health supplements supplant cosmetic products, we draw a parallel - music, too, can be ingested and infused, shaping, and recalibrating the essence of our physical and emotional states.

I started learning piano at a young age and plunged into the world of composing when most of the well-known composers were male. I've never paid attention to gender because I consider myself a 'composer' regardless of pronouns and focus solely on my music. If music is a language, males and females should foster individuality rather than disparity.

With over three decades dedicated to education, I sincerely believe it is time for educators to reconsider their approaches gently. By doing so, we can inspire the upcoming generation to rediscover their passion for acquiring knowledge and nurturing essential skills.

My heartfelt advice to them is to gently nurture three qualities - concentration, passion, and determination regardless of their chosen fields. Simultaneously, embrace three abilities - knowledge, creativity, and observation. I wholeheartedly believe that weaving together these qualities and abilities can weave the fabric of a truly fulfilling life.

Mihika Sansare

Guitarist

I’m Mihika Sansare Fingerstyle guitarist. I’ve been learning guitar for 6 years now and it has been an amazing journey so far. Both my parents are music lovers who first introduced me to music. And now that I’m doing full time music, I realize that learning never ends.
I get inspiration from my very own people around me who make music for a living. I’m also teaching acoustic guitar now and seeing my students excel is the best feeling ever.

Music evolves, just like everything else. We need to accept it and stick to our roots. Working hard and making our way into the industry will never be easy but with commitment you can win it. For me, social media is the best place to achieve your dreams because where else would you get an open mic that reaches the world!

Fight for it! This is what keeps me going. Nothing comes easy when you choose a creative path as a career, but talent wins everything.
A dedicated person with patience and practice is unbeatable. Have big goals and wake up every day thinking about the future - that will keep you going.
There's no stopping here and no end there, just how Music is - Endless!

NanaFormosa Percussions Duo

Cheng, Ya-Hsin
Chang, Yu-Ying

As female musicians navigating the world of percussion, biology has naturally placed some obstacles in our path when creating certain sounds that males may produce with greater ease. However, I see this biological distinction not merely as a disadvantage but also as an advantage. Our lighter muscles and bones, in comparison to males, prompt us to understand the importance of “relaxation” and mastering various techniques to achieve the desired sounds. Consequently, teaching children with smaller frames has become one of our strengths.
In my role, I see myself as a guide, leading my members on a journey to savor the delightful views we cherish. This process consistently fills me with excitement. There comes a point where we can guide them in a certain direction or explore uncharted paths together. This, to me, embodies the protégé effect that I wholeheartedly pursue. ― Cheng, Ya-Hsin

Music is the most intimate and honest language for me to express and release my emotions. A lot of times I feel a closeness to music, surpassing my family's connection.
In the realm of teaching, I’ve understood that not all students possess innate gifts. Some shine brightly, experiencing an immediate sense of achievement. Others may require more time to absorb and grow, but witnessing their efforts bear fruit is undeniably rewarding. In this age of technological advancement, students are endowed with abundant resources. As educators, grappling with staying abreast of new ideas, such as crossover music, becomes a shared challenge. Therefore, I consistently urge my students to embrace a broader perspective, encouraging them to listen more, observe more, and explore beyond the boundaries of percussion. I believe these resources will serve as a canvas upon which they can paint a vibrant and imaginative musical landscape. ― Chang, Yu-Ying

Sally Yiew

Musician, Entrepreneur, Guitarist

Embarking on her musical journey at the age of 15, this aspiring musician was profoundly moved by the magnetic allure of a live band's performance. It sparked an instant, spontaneous decision to plunge into the enchanting world of guitar exploration. Starting with the acoustic guitar and swiftly embracing the electric counterpart, she discovered an enduring passion that would shape her musical identity.
The electric guitar, like a trusted companion, has played a pivotal role in sustaining her deep love for the visceral rhythms and expressive lyrics of rock and metal music. It became the vessel through which she channeled her emotions and carved her unique musical path.

Advocating for the universal language of music, she passionately believes that it transcends the confines of language and age. Recognizing the inherent emotional depth that women bring to musical expression, she fervently supports their right to choose melodies that resonate with their innermost feelings.
In the ongoing chapters of her musical journey, she aspires to infuse vibrancy into the rock genre, viewing it not merely as a musical style but as a musical culture. Encouraging the freedom of musical expression, she implores fellow enthusiasts to stay true to their artistic style amidst the ever-changing tides of musical trends, contributing to the rich and diverse tapestry of musical artistry.

Tarn Softwhip

Drummer

Tarn’s musical journey began at the age of 8 when she chose to play the Ranad Ek, a traditional Thai instrument at school. Later, at the age of 11, she broke stereotypes and chose to play the drum set in an all-girls school where most students played sweet-sounding instruments, driven by a desire for uniqueness. Since then, music has become an inseparable part of her life.

For Tarn, music plays an integral role in her daily life. Music becomes her breath, bringing joy, freedom, and liberation both when playing and listening. She emphasizes the power of rhythm, which makes any music more enjoyable and approachable for people from diverse backgrounds.

Together with her role model Senri Kawaguchi, Tarn aims to break gender stereotypes in the music industry, making music more accessible to everyone, regardless of gender or age. She believes that technology has made music more inclusive but emphasizes the need for affordable instruments to further ease access to music education.

Tarn encourages everyone to pursue their love for music. She passionately believes that there is equality in music, and anyone can play an instrument, urging everyone to embrace the challenge and discover their potential.
Tarn’s story reminds us that music is universal; it is a realm with no boundaries, and there are limitless possibilities that unfold when we allow ourselves to try.

Tshering Bhutia

Singer-songwriter

I’m Tshering Bhutia, singer-songwriter based in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. My music is predominantly indie folk and jazz. Over the years, I have been lucky to have continuously found people who are as interested in music as I was/am. That has definitely contributed to my growth. I am most elated when I’m writing free prose and turning it into a song.

Promoting English indie music is a tough game – especially in a place like Ahmedabad. Not a lot of demand, so being paid is tough too. I wish there could be a system to control this for the musician’s benefit.

Make music that is organic and fun to you, support your local artists. We are a small community right now and there is space for all of us to grow together.

Xiao Geng

Music School Teacher

My connection with music began with a yearning for beautiful melodies. Though the journey of learning was not always smooth, diligence and persistence gradually allowed me to feel the joy and sense of achievement that music brought.

From a novice to a guide for children in the world of music, watching them transition from learning music to loving it, enjoying it, and creating it, instilled in me a sense of responsibility and became my greatest motivation for improvement. I believe in the infectious power of music, where playing is not just about showing techniques but also expressing one's body, emotions, and feelings. The feeling of contentment that comes at the end of a performance is the most wonderful to me, and perhaps that is the meaning of “Make Waves.”

Music is an equal art. Everyone has their own aesthetic in mind. As a person in the music industry, I believe that respect between individuals is of the utmost importance, it exists between teachers and students, among colleagues and generations. I genuinely hope that children can make progress and enjoy music. As a teacher, I hope to earn endorsement while taking care of my own family.

Every woman is a brilliant star! May our light illuminate our own lives and people around us. May every day be filled with energy and hope as we courageously chase our dreams.

Cicely Balston

Mastering Engineer, Winner of the Mastering Engineer of the year 2023 (The Music Producers Guild)

I've been honing my mastering skills across various formats, including digital and vinyl, since 2013. Although I initially began my musical journey in school orchestras, it was at university that I discovered my passion for music and sound recording.

I feel so lucky that I get to work with music! Shaping the sound so that people listening can connect to it better is really exciting. My favorite thing is how everyone can interpret it in a way that makes sense to them. This connection can be uplifting, cathartic, or transformative.

Inclusivity in music production and embracing a range of backgrounds and voices brings a wider diversity to the music that we all listen to. While strides have been made toward equality and diversity, there's still work to be done. The fight for limited space hampers progress on bigger issues, such as equality, which has been a longstanding challenge in the arts, especially in the UK.

Let's prioritize inclusivity, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate self-awareness in our perceptions, especially within the network-based music industry.

Remember there's no singular path to success—collaborate with people, attend shows, and explore diverse paths in the music industry and the arts more widely.

Ramera Abraham

Vocal Producer & Recording Engineer, Winner of the Vocal Producer of the year 2023 (The Music Producers Guild)

Growing up in a musical family fueled my passion for creativity in music, dance, and the arts. Raised by a hardworking dad, who worked tirelessly to create a life for the two of us, I developed a drive to excel, particularly in the music industry.

To enhance my craft, I began honing my engineering skills to become more multifaceted as a vocal producer. Many womxn in the industry are taking the same approach. While more self-producing female and non-binary artists and writer-producers gain recognition, there's still a disparity at the very top. Despite opportunities at entry levels, womxn remain underrepresented in charts and decision-making roles.

Addressing the existing “perception issue” highlighted by Catherine Marks in The Guardian is crucial for breaking barriers that stop womxn from finding management or being introduced to people who can help their progression. This is the main change I want to see in the industry. I look forward to the day when people stop saying, “I’ve never worked with a female engineer/producer on my music.”