Lauren Faggiano

Role at ROC Star Academy:
Band Coach

Hometown:
Rush, New York

Your musical focus/instruments you play:
Vocals, Keys, Guitar, Songwriting, Viola/Violin, Ukulele.

When did you start pursuing music?
When I started talking. 

What is your musical education?
I am a music therapist for my full-time job, so I have studied music up through my masters degree. For piano and guitar, I am self taught and rely heavily on my ear. 

What are your musical influences/favorite bands?
Joni Mitchell, Etta James, Janis Joplin, Tori Amos, Bonnie Raitt, Allman Brothers Band, Dr. John, The Meters.

What is your “deserted island” album?
Hmmmm, maybe Allman Brothers Band’s A Decade of Hits 1969-1979.

What is your favorite venue or event that you’ve performed?
My band got to open up for Leon Russell at Party In The Park.

What’s the craziest thing that ever happened to you on-stage?
My keyboard stand collapsed during my solo, but stayed connected to everything, so I dropped to my knees and kept on playing.

What’s the best piece of musical advice you’ve received in your career thus far?
To just be me.

What is your favorite part of coaching at ROC Star Academy?
I’m still fairly new to coaching at ROC Star Academy, but I love sharing my passion for music with others that get it.  I enjoy watching the growth.