Alumni SpotlightSeptember 2011

Niia Bertino,2005 YA Winner in Voice / Jazz

Sweetest Girl" Acoustic: Wyclef Jean, Niia, & Jerry Wonda. URL: http://youtu.be/RhxsEDyOtzQ

Niia Bertino in NYC "Bang Bang" Cover. URL: http://youtu.be/Fj_WMrf1xJ0

Not too many upcoming singers can say they have worked with such musical stars as Wyclef Jean, Akon, Lil’ Wayne, or Lady Gaga. Niia Bertino, 23, has been featured with each of these artists since participating in YoungArts six years ago. “The most important thing I learned from YoungArts was how many other extremely talentedtalented people there are in the world,” said Niia. “You can never stop improving and there will always be competition. Being true to yourself and continuing to be open to learn from others especially your peers is vital in every creative field. ”

As a singer, Niia was recognized at a young age by YoungArts as one of the top jazz singers in the United States. She is best known for her feature on the 2007 hit single "Sweetest Girl (Dollar Bill)," with Wyclef, Akon, and Lil' Wayne, which was certified Platinum by the RIAA and peaked at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100. The successsuccess of the song enabled Niia to land appearances on the Letterman Show, Craig Ferguson, and BET Honors among others as well as a worldwide tour with Wyclef. Niia also has been lucky enough to perform for some of her biggest influences, including Bjork and Patti Smith. Niia is currently working on her debut albumalbum which explores a darker side of electronic pop music, which is slated for release in late 2011.

“It's a scary place sometimes to be onstage alone singing your heartaches, fears and regrets.” Niia discloses. “But, with time it can become the most exhilarating freeing feeling you could experience.”

We recently caught up with Niia and asked her to share some insights about the YoungArts program and the life of a singer:

1) What is the most important thing you learned from YoungArts?

The most important thing I learned from YoungArts was how many other extremely talented people there are in the world. You can never stop improving and there will always be competition. Being true to yourself and continu-ing to be open to learn from others especially your peers is vital in every creative field.

2) What/who has inspired your works?

Too many things have inspired my work. A few have to do with my childhood. Studying classical music and Jazz voice at a young age has helped mold my sound tremendously. The ocean, my dreams, and fears are other influ-ences. Some old films, new bands and old torch singers have also contributed. Finally, my mother; she has always been my rock when I needed her most. Without her I would have never started music.

3) Please finish this sentence… “I would not be where I am now, if it was not for

My dog Rocco;" he was a gift to me at 19 when I was alone living in New York City by myself. He was my best friend. Losing him only helped me find my inner strength to continue creating music and helping animals. I am a big ASPCA supporter and believe animals truly have healing powers. Our trips to the dog park would be a time of contemplation and lyric writing for me, and always an adventure for him.

4) What do you wish you knew before starting your career in the arts/music business?

II wish I knew I'd have to share my fears and dreams with others. Growing up singing jazz standards was fun and easy. I got to express my personal feelings through famous old songs that had been written by others. Now, as my own original music continues to grow, the words are my own. It's a scary place sometimes to be onstage alone singing your heartaches, fears and regrets. But, with time it can become the most exhilarating freeing feeling you could experience.

5) What is your favorite thing about being a musician?

MyMy favorite thing about being a musician is that I can continue to play, listen, create, and learn at any time. I can make my own rules. I can sleep all day, and write all night. When I am doing any of these... I know I am growing and truly living my life to the fullest.

6) What is your life’s mantra?

I live by two of my favorite Classical composer's quotes.

Chopin - "Simplicity is the highest goal, achievable when you have overcome all difficulties. After one has played a vast quantity of notes and more notes, it is simplicity that emerges as the crowning reward of art."

"Put all your soul into it, play the way you feel!""Put all your soul into it, play the way you feel!"

7) What are your future projects?

I am just wrapping up on my first EP. It is due out by the end of summer. I am also co- producing a children's album of lullabies to come out soon.

http://youngarts.org