22 Aug Students Speak: Sara Francis
The student community at GMI cuts across age groups, musical backgrounds, and interests. The Student Speak Series aims to give a platform to their voices and stories, share what drew them to GMI, how they see their artistry maturing, and their path forward.
New York City // USA
Growing up in New York City, and currently residing in New Delhi, Sara Francis takes us through her journey of childhood inspirations and memories. Her early influences were shaped by her father and siblings, be it listening to Metallica’s “Death Magnetic” on loop or the classic tunes of ABBA. During high school she got introduced to the world of musical theater. The evocative storytelling and performance moved her and created a new interest and passion.
Seeking to continue her musical journey, GMI emerged to be the perfect place to understand more about music and shape her sound. Currently enrolled in the Artist Diploma program at Global Music Institute, Sara says she seeks to expand her musical palette and not limit herself as an artist. “Music, for me, has been about expression and painting a picture. It has always been about opening a window to my soul”.
Below are the excerpts of a conversation exploring her musical beginnings and inspirations.
Read on to learn more about Sara.
When did you become interested in music?
I became interested in music from a very young age. My first memories of music was when I heard Metallica’s ‘Death Magnetic’ album play in the car when I was five. I would ask my dad to play that CD over and over again. I remember Abba being the other band I was super into when I was that young (two very different vibes). In high school, I started doing theater and the world of musical theater and show tunes opened up for me. I think that’s when I had created a whole new interest that I developed which pointed me in a direction when I thought about what I might want to do with my life.
What drew you to study at GMI?
When I moved to India, I found it discouraging that it seemed like I couldn’t continuously pursue music. I especially missed being in the school environment around other people who had similar interests like mine. After hearing about GMI I was intrigued. I came to one of the Wednesday Weekly’s to see the performances and was amazed by the talent. It definitely inspired me and I knew that I wanted to be able to be a part of the creative atmosphere here.
A memorable experience at GMI:
I just started so all of the experiences I have are new but I loved being asked to sing for the weekly performance of my good friend. I remember running through it the first time and the three of us had chills because of the vibe that was created.
A fun fact about yourself:
I enjoy making short films on my Super 8 camera
Your favourite food:
I love a good poppy seed bagel with scallion cream cheese
If you weren’t a musician, what would you be?
Either I would go to film school or start my own small business (like a pottery studio, boutique, or cafe), or I would love to teach but either preschool or high school (definitely NOT middle school)..
An artist that currently inspires you:
Hope Sandoval, Eva Noblezada, Courtney Barnett
A track that currently inspires you:
Svefn-g-englar by Sigur Ros
Your musical idol:
Hope Sandoval
Your dream collaboration:
Courtney Barnett, Sufjan Stevens, Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, Of Monsters and Men
How do you spend your free time?
I like to read and listen to music. I love to go thrifting back in the States and going on drives.
A quote that keeps you going / inspires you:
“To see the world, things dangerous to come to, to see behind walls, draw closer, to find each other and to feel. That is the purpose of life.”
An instrument you wish you could play / want to learn:
The Mandolin
Written by Naman
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