Sophia Bass Just Loves Making Her Music
by Christine Stoddard
What more can you say to a 17-year old who's already produced her own independent CD besides, "You go, girl!"? Sophia Bass, a senior at Woodson High School in Fairfax, Virginia, has a voice reminiscent of Vanessa Carlton and Michelle Branch, and her songs have the soulful edge of a Dave Matthews number. After studying with professional musicians in Nashville, Sophia released her CD, entitled "Step Into My Dream," on May 5th at Jammin' Java in Vienna, Virginia. Before you discount her as just another dreamer with hopes too big for the wrong town, read what this young singer-songwriter has to say about her history and inspirations...
What can you tell me about your instruments? Do you play more than one? Are you subject to brand loyalty or will you play with whatever's available? What made you choose the instrument(s) you have now---was it cost or was it a style/model/sound/brand/color, etc. preference?
Sophia: When I was six years old, my grandfather suggested to my parents that I begin taking piano lessons. As I began playing, I discovered at a very early age that I had an innate ability to compose music. My father and mother would often come home from work and say, "Sophia what's that you're playing?" I would reply, "I don't know, just something I wrote." Ever since then, I have studied with various teachers from around the metropolitan area, studying classical and a little jazz. As I became an adolescent, I became interested in the guitar and songwriting. After all, Tracy Chapman and Norah Jones have always inspired me to want to sing in front of a crowd. I was never shy to just play a song in front of a classroom, even in the 8th grade. Now, I have come to know myself as a person who is a singer, songwriter, and musician, aspiring to become successful in the near future. While I recently independently released my first album, "Step Into My Dream," a pop rock album with a bit of an edge, I have high hopes to create a local fan base and begin performing around the area.
Where have you performed? What are your favorite and least favorite venues?
Sophia: I have performed at schools and at a recent event called MCT Fest.
Who are your major influences?
Sophia: I have always looked up to Tracy Chapman, Bob Dylan, Dave Matthews.
Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you ever play any covers?
Sophia: The songs I will end up performing most frequently are called "Sympathy," a song about a soldier going off to war, and "Coffee at Starbucks," a song about a break-up and dishonesty. So far, I have not played any covers, but I plan on learning songs by Tracy Chapman and Mary Ann Redman.
Who writes your songs? Could you briefly describe your music-making process?
Sophia: All of the music that I have recorded is my own. I write the lyrics, the music, and I arrange the majority of my compositions.
How has your music evolved since you first began playing?
Sophia: When I first began writing music, it was extremely complex. It didn't really have a define direction, although it was good music. After working in Nashville on my album, being around professionals in the music business, I have learned that "less is more." The [simpler] your music is, the more of a following you will have. This is why the general population chooses to listen to rock and country over classical. It's just the way the business works. However, I try not to let myself write what the majority wants. I keep my music true to myself and I think people will want to hear [it].
What has been your biggest challenge as a musician?
Sophia: My biggest challenge as a musician has been trying to achieve the same goals as classic piano students who have been taking piano for years and can sight-read whatever they want. Ever since I was young, I have always struggled with reading music, not something that is very common among us young musicians. However, I have always had an extremely good ear for music, which has helped me throughout my musical career.
What advice do you have for people who want to enter the music business?
Sophia: Whether your a solo artist like myself, or trying to start a band, make sure you're working with the right musicians who can easily play what you want recorded or performed, otherwise, you won't end up with a good sound. Make sure that you are truly dedicated to music, and be responsible with getting things accomplished. This is a business like any other field.
How can local teens get access to your music?
Sophia: To listen to my music, local teens can go to www.myspace.com/sophiabass, where they can listen to four tracks off of my newly released album....Teens should be able to access www.sophiabass.com or the Myspace sight to purchase the album offline. To order the album and have it directly sent to your home address, contact this email address: makinmymusic@aol.com, for more details.
Is there anyone you would like to acknowledge for offering financial or emotional support?
Sophia: I would like to thank all of friends around the Prince William county and Fairfax county area, especially those at Woodson [high school] for supporting me throughout this entire year. I couldn't of made the album without my parents financial aid and support, and for a wonderful encouraging mentor, Lisa Reagan, and producer, Paul Buono, for making this album happen.
Any last words?
Sophia: Never stop writing music. Dreams really can come true.