Meet Italy-born UK Open Mic performer Gemma:

Hi Gemma, thanks for joining us! Let’s get into it:

Do you play solo only, or also in a group?

Solo

How old are you?

12

Where were you born?

Italy

Where did you grow up?

Italy – we arrived in Uk in September 2022

How did that place influence your music? (if at all!)

Growing up in Italy has influenced my music of course, although my musical influences are more international. Nonetheless, Italy’s creative atmosphere, passionate culture, and breath-taking landscapes have undeniably left a lasting impression on my artistic journey.

Where are you based now, and why?

I’m based in London.

What got you into making music in the first place?

I got into making music because of my passion for it. Music is my life—it’s my escape, my happy place, and what connects me to my best friends. It’s also where I foresee my future, what I aspire to be and become in my life.

What instrument/s do you play?

Singing
Piano
Piano

Who would be in your top 10 musical influences, and why?

Adele, Olivia Rodrigo, Alicia Keys, and Billie Eilish are my favorite singers and sources of inspiration.

Do you write your own songs?

Yes

How many years have you been writing songs for?

2

What process, or processes, do you often find yourself using when you write songs?

As a 12-year-old songwriter, I first think about what I want to express through my music, drawing from my experiences and feelings. Then, I often create a melody or chord progression on my piano or loop station. From there, I craft lyrics that match the song’s mood and message, ensuring they resonate. After that, I experiment with various arrangements and sounds to fully realize the song. This creative process lets me express myself and connect with others through music.

How long have you been playing open mic nights?

1

Why did you get into playing them in the first place?

I love to share my passion for music and feel the warmth of people while singing. Open mic nights give me the opportunity to enjoy such moments whenever I want or can.

What advice would you give new performers who are just starting out playing their first open mics?

Just let yourself try and enjoy this experience, meeting other singers and musicians, as well as people who enjoy listening to your music.

What’s the hardest thing, for you, about playing open mics?

The hardest thing for me about playing open mics is finding a venue close to my house in Chiswick. I would participate more frequently if there were closer options available.

What’s the most bizarre, or fun, open mic, or gig, you’ve ever played, and why?

The most memorable open mic I’ve played was my first one. As I sang, people in the audience stood up and started singing along with me, accompanied by a lot of claps. Afterwards, many of them came up to me to share compliments and positive feedback.

If it’s not already, are you hoping to make music your full-time career?

Yes

What do you currently find the hardest and biggest obstacles to moving your music career forward?

My age

What’s the one truth about you that people often find surprising?

One surprising truth about me, as people often say, is that I possess a powerful voice with a strong technique, especially considering my young age.

Where is the main place should people go to find out more about you?

https://www.instagram.com/gemma_schito_singer/

We’re done! Anything else you want to share before we go?

No thanks!