Today we’d like to introduce you to Albi Podrizki.
Hi Albi, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Twelve years ago, I walked away from a career in real estate sales after realizing how deeply it conflicted with who I was. Music had been a passion of mine since middle school, and in 2014 I moved to Asheville with the goal of becoming a professional musician. After arriving I formed a string trio called The Lifters, specializing in American and French swing music, while also dedicating myself to the study of fingerstyle guitar. Coming to WNC and reinventing myself has been one of the best decision of my life. It’s a wonderful part of the country and the music and arts community is extremely vibrant
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing as a musician while simultaneously leading a group, performing, and teaching has been both rewarding and demanding. Hurricane Helene dealt a blow to the local music scene, and recovery has been gradual as musicians and venues slowly rebuild. On the bright side, I’ve recently been invited into two exciting new musical projects: Blue Nickels, a New Orleans–style traditional jazz band, and Gyspy Reverie, a gypsy swing string quartet — both giving me new opportunities to explore and expand my guitar playing.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve long been drawn to swing music of the 1940s, and singing in French has given me a unique voice, helping me find my place in the local music scene. Along the way, I was fortunate to befriend a master guitarist who deeply influenced my development as a solo instrumental guitarist.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Social media is a convenient way to follow my live music calendar and staying in touch
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @albitune
- Facebook: Albi Podrizki
