We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Malafronte and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi maria, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing that I have asked about countless time as a music therapist is “who do we work with”. As music therapists we work with an vast range of people. I tell people we work “cradle to grave” which is my best way to describe the outreach music therapy extends to all ages, abilities and diagnoses.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Being a Music Therapist has allowed me to be creative and collaborate daily but I am also lucky enough to be in a band with my dearest friends. My best friend and I have been playing music together for about ten years. We started playing folk music in New York in a band called Cobblestone and after moving to Nashville reworked the project and started a band called Hennessy Margaret. Hennessy Margaret has been the gift that keeps on giving. It allows me to flex the songwriting muscle I am constantly looking to exercise. We play locally in town with other bands we LOVE and are heading to the studio soon to record some new tune! Out main influences are Lake Street Dive and Tedeschi Trucks Band but I like to think we have created a unique sound blending elements of blues, rock and Americana.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I thought you’d never ask! I bartend at truly one of my favorite spots in the city, Answer Restaurant located in Sylvan Park. If you’re looking to catch some live music I recommend The Local or The Basement. My favorite spot for coffee is in Wedgewood Houston called Tempo, the staff is incredible and the food is also amazing. If you’re looking for a good date spot I recommend Green Hour in Germantown and favorite dive bars have to be either Dino’s or Dukes on the East side!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout the incredible community I have around me. Ever since moving to Nashville I have been blessed with incredible friends, fellow artists, coworkers and family members that have formed a solid community. A community that supports, shows up and makes the ups and downs a lot more fun!

Website: https://www.empowermusictherapy.com/

Instagram: @mariamargaretmusic

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empowermusictherapy.nash

Image Credits
Abby Weeden

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutTennessee is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.