One of the many pleasures of still being connected to my Alma Mater, The University of Southern Maine School of Music, is the opportunity to photograph colleagues and past professors. Truly an honor, and especially working with Anastasia Antonacos who was one of my first professors in my college career.
Annie, as she is more casually referred to, was introduced to music at a young age by her parents and developed her innate talent and skills on the piano. She is now an advocate for music and its accessibility to everyone, especially young people through various forms. From winning competitions and awards at an early age to furthering her education and craft through studies at USM and Indiana University, her vision has brought her to where she is today. Bringing the joy of music to everyone.
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As a founding member of the Portland Piano Trio and Co-Founding Director of 240 Strings, Dr. Antonacos brings classical music to diverse audiences. 240 Stings provides free music education programs through private lessons, ensemble experiences, and school programs. Bridging the gap in schools of achievement, self-development, and arts for all students.
By providing free classical music education, 240 Strings cultivates young minds and hearts, while building community along the way.
240 Strings Mission
All of that is in addition to her responsibilities at the University of Southern Maine School of Music as a piano instructor and professor. It was such an honor to photograph Annie and talk a little bit more about her connection to music. Often, I find us as musicians have our own personal connection to music but it is not really spoken about in the presence of other musicians, just an unconscious understanding of the craft and art form. Listen to her words in the video below.
