Jennifer Hartswick is a multifaceted musician known for her dynamic trumpet playing, soulful vocals, and infectious energy. Her career has spanned diverse genres and collaborations, but at its core lies a dedication to authenticity and the power of music to connect and uplift. Hartswick's journey, marked by pivotal encounters and a commitment to personal growth, offers insights into her health and lifestyle, revealing a vibrant and fulfilling path.
Early Influences and a Life-Changing Encounter
Hartswick's musical journey began in the rural Northeast Kingdom of Vermont. At just 17, while a senior at Lyndonville Institute, she had a life-changing encounter with Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio. Anastasio, then working on his solo album "One Man’s Trash," needed a trumpet player and Hartswick was invited to participate in a session. This early experience proved formative, shaping her artistic outlook and career trajectory.
The Trey Anastasio Band: Embracing Individuality
Hartswick's collaboration with Trey Anastasio extended beyond the initial recording session. Anastasio recognized her unique talent and personality, inviting her to join his band. Hartswick reflects on this experience with gratitude, noting that Anastasio "created a role for me because he wanted me to be around." This willingness to embrace her individuality instilled in her a valuable lesson: "whatever I came with is enough."
The influence of Trey Anastasio on Hartswick's approach to life and music is profound. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, stating that "who you uniquely are at the core is so special that you should never do anything else than what your gut is telling you to do." She rejects the notion of striving for a "vision of perfection," advocating instead for embracing imperfections and growing together through shared experiences. This philosophy permeates her music and her approach to life, fostering genuine connections with audiences and fellow musicians.
Vermont Roots and a Communal Spirit
Hartswick's Vermont upbringing has significantly shaped her artistic sensibilities. She describes a "communal vibe" within the state, characterized by a thriving artistic community and a preference for "simple, artistic lifestyles." Her early experiences jamming with fellow musicians at a young age instilled in her a sense of camaraderie and a deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of music. This spirit of collaboration continues to be a driving force in her career, evident in her various musical projects and her commitment to fostering connections through music.
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"Nexus": A Solo Venture
In September, Hartswick released her first solo album, "Nexus," showcasing her artistic vision and musical prowess. The album features collaborations with Nick Cassarino of The Nth Power, a long-time friend since middle school, and Grammy-winning bassist Christian McBride. "Nexus" represents a culmination of her experiences and a testament to her growth as a musician and songwriter.
The Power of Authenticity and Connection
Hartswick emphasizes the importance of "having the confidence to be who you are." She believes that living authentically attracts positive opportunities and fosters genuine connections. "I think the more authentically you can live your life, the more things aligned with your vibration will find you," she says. This philosophy extends to her music, where she strives to create an authentic and meaningful experience for her audience.
Hartswick feels fortunate to be able to bring joy to others through her music. "It’s such a win-win for everybody," she says. She recognizes the power of music to connect with people, even strangers, and considers it her job to create a positive experience for her audience. This sense of purpose and dedication fuels her performances and inspires her to be the best version of herself every day.
The Nth Power: Spreading Love and Healing Through Music
Hartswick's collaborations extend beyond her solo work, including her involvement with The Nth Power, a band dedicated to spreading a message of love and positivity through music. The band's formation stemmed from an impromptu late-night jam in New Orleans during the Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2012. The band is a collection of talented musicians, each with a rich musical background.
The Nth Power's mission is to use music to inspire change and promote healing. Drummer Nikki Glaspie articulates this vision, stating, "I want (the audience) to walk away with love and peace and just knowing that it doesn’t matter what your situation is right now - you can change it." The band's music blends funk, soul, rock, jazz, Gospel, folk, and World Beat, creating a diverse and uplifting sonic experience. Ultimately, The Nth Power seeks to "spread love and hopefully promote healing" through the power of music.
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Glaspie's musical journey began in the church, where she developed a love for gospel music. She later expanded her musical horizons, drawing inspiration from artists such as James Brown, Bootsy Collins, Nirvana, and Led Zeppelin. Glaspie emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, stating, "The way that I approach music is I try to learn something from everything." Her experiences playing with diverse artists, including Beyonce and Maceo Parker, have shaped her into a versatile and accomplished musician.
The Nth Power maintains a busy tour schedule, performing at renowned events such as Bear Creek Music Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival, and High Sierra Music Festival. The band released a single, "Only Love," and their first full-length album, "Abundance," reflects their commitment to spreading a message of positivity and encouraging a lifestyle of happiness and resilience. Glaspie emphasizes that "to be happy is a decision you make," and that even in the face of adversity, individuals have the power to create positive change in their lives.
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