Maria Bonanno

Acoustic pop artist Maria Bonanno is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter recently transplanted to New York City (formerly based in Ormond Beach, Florida). A passionate lover of all types of music, Maria counts Traditional Irish music, Bob Dylan, and Sarah McLachlan among her many influences.
Maria has performed throughout Manhattan (including several appearances opening for the off-Broadway hit "27 Heaven") and Central Florida. A member of the Songwriter’s Showcases of America (SSA), she has participated in a number of their events, including the Deland Original Music Festival and Main Street Live and has twice been nominated for their "Female Vocalist of the Year" honor. Maria’s clear mezzo-soprano voice and poetic, thought-provoking lyrics have earned her a loyal and supportive local fan base. In addition to performing, Ms. Bonanno released a self-produced 4 song EP in 2005 and a new full-length LP recorded with renowned producer Moogy Klingman is due out in Fall 2007.
Originally from Tampa, Florida, Maria likes to joke that she was “born singing”. She says, “I can’t remember a time that music was not an essential part of my life”. Maria began formally studying piano at age seven, guitar at eight, classical voice at twelve, and started writing songs when she was eleven. Inspired by the female singer-songwriters of the past such as Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, Maria started taking her show on the road when she was only fourteen. She performed original songs and covers on guitar and vocals at local festivals and venues throughout Florida, from Sarasota to Gainesville. Now 28, Maria’s long-term goal is to perform nationally, and to secure a major-label recording contract.
Maria’s poignant songwriting and passionate performance make her shows not-to-be missed events for music lovers. Look for New York’s new favorite singer-songwriter, Maria Bonanno, at a venue near you soon – you’ll soon be another loyal fan.

Visit Maria's website at www.mariabonanno.com