Meet Audrey Mason of Grand Traverse/Leelanau County

Today we’d like to introduce you to Audrey Mason

Hi Audrey, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My name is Audrey Mason, and I am a 16-year-old multi-instrumentalist, performer, and songwriter born and raised in Northern Michigan. I attended the Pathfinder School for my elementary and middle school education before moving on to Interlochen Arts Academy, where I am currently a junior, majoring in Songwriting.

While I primarily write my songs on guitar, I also play cello, bass guitar, a bit of piano, and kazoo. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a songwriter; music has always felt like a crucial component of my life and it felt natural and necessary to pursue my passion of writing. I began playing gigs around Northern Michigan when I was 13, and have since fallen in love with performing. I plan to continue playing shows for as long as I can, and I am more than excited to see where that brings me.

Growing up in Northern Michigan has offered me countless opportunities and has inspired me in so many different ways. It has especially influenced my appreciation for nature and the beautiful location here. I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by so much support in my life, my family and teachers throughout the years have shown me so much guidance to shape me into the musician and human I am. Attending Interlochen Arts Academy has provided me so many opportunities and has taught me so much about my art, the kind of musical world I wish to create, and the kind of songs I want to write. It has also shown me how to push myself, and ultimately, how to find joy in what I do.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I am still very new to this art form and job, so I haven’t experienced any major struggles yet. Although I occasionally struggle with self-doubt and burnout from time to time, I believe that these ebbs and flows are part of the process and ultimately will guide me to more experiences and knowledge.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a multi-faceted instrumentalist and songwriter, performing both as a solo artist and in a band called A to Z. As a band, we play all over Northern Michigan, some highlights being opening for the Accidentals, Five for Fighting, and the Mountain Grass Unit. You can check us out on our website (atozmusic.art), our Instagram (@atozmusic_), and our facebook (atozmusictc). We play a mix of indie, folk, pop, rock, and alt music, a combination of covers and originals. I met my band partner, Zinnia Dungjen, at Interlochen Arts Academy, where we both study Songwriting and fortunately, we both live in the area. We’ve since become best friends and have been performing together for about two years. We’ve been having an absolute blast!
As much as I love performing with A to Z, I also find so much joy in playing solo, as it allows different and new experiences and pushes me artistically. My songs have been described as folky mountain music, with alt and jazz influences.
I am proud of my drive and passion for noticing the rarity and beauty in music, and for finding a connection with community through art and musical friendships. When I perform, there is nothing that makes me happier than to see an audience member connecting with my music, and finding community with live performances.

Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
When I was 9 years old, my parents took me and my sister on a six-week camping trip across the country, from the Upper Peninsula to California and back. I remember being in awe of all of the new sights and little worlds everywhere. This experience influenced my appreciation of different landscapes, people, and travel. Ideally, I will eventually be able to travel for my career when I am a bit older.

Contact Info:

• Website: atozmusic.art
• Instagram: @the_audrey_mason @atozmusic_
• Facebook: atozmusictc