Performing November 21 — “Hooray for Hollywood”
You said you used to be very shy and “hide and sing.” How did you eventually find the confidence to share your voice with others?
As I went through school and joined theater and choir, I became more confident onstage and in public performance. I’d say it was a mix of natural maturity and experience that helped! The more I sang in front of people, the easier it became. I still get nervous before a big performance, but once I’m on stage and start singing, I immediately feel better — it’s like releasing that energy out to the audience.
Was there a moment or person who helped you step into the spotlight for the first time?
I’ll never forget my first music teacher, Mr. Stonkus. He was my elementary school chorus teacher and really helped me find my true voice. He treated students like young adults, not little kids, and taught us to respect our own voices and each other’s. He instilled professionalism and a strong work ethic. I felt validated and seen as a creative person — even in fourth grade. What an impact!
Looking back, do you still recognize that shy version of yourself, or has performing completely transformed you?
That “shy” side is still in there. What helps me is stepping outside my own head and remembering that my job is to connect with people and lift them up through music. When you focus on your purpose and stay present for the audience, you’re giving a gift. In those moments onstage, it’s not “me” and “them” — we’re in it together. That’s when the magic happens.
You work with Music Drives Us, helping deliver instruments to schools and nonprofits across New England. What’s the most rewarding part of that work?
The most rewarding part of my job with Music Drives Us is being out in the community and seeing firsthand what schools and nonprofits need. We make sure they get the instruments and funding to keep their programs alive. Our mission is simple: keep music in schools, no matter what.
You seem to thrive on collaboration — what do you enjoy most about making music with others?
I love combining my energy with other creative people. It’s kind of like baking — when you bring the right ingredients together, the result is always unique. There’s a piece of you in every creative work you release into the world. I feel so fortunate to have collaborated with so many talented musicians and artists and to have released so many creative projects over the years.
You’ll be performing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” “Skyfall,” and “Beauty and the Beast” — three iconic songs! How do you approach bringing your own interpretation to such well-loved classics?
I always start by remembering how I felt the first time I heard them. “Somewhere” and “Beauty” take me back to childhood — I connected with those melodies right away and feel nostalgic about them now. “Skyfall” is more modern and really speaks to my pop/R&B side! I’ve never performed Beauty and the Beast before, so it’ll be a real treat. I’m a true Broadway lover, so it will be extra special to share my own interpretation with the audience on November 21.
You’ve recently been performing more with orchestras — what do you love most about that experience?
There’s magic in the combined energy of all those instrumental layers, the human voice, and the conductor leading the way. In those moments, we’re in perfect synergy, creating something fleeting and beautiful together. It’s such an elevated experience — there’s truly nothing like it in the world.
If you could star in or sing the theme from any movie ever made, which would you choose — and why?
If I could sing the theme from any movie, it would be The Bodyguard. “I Will Always Love You” is one of those songs filled with pure emotion, strength, and vulnerability all in one. Whitney’s performance is truly iconic, but I’d love the challenge of interpreting it in my own way and paying tribute to that power.
What’s next for you — any dream collaborations or projects you’re excited about?
I’m currently planning a few new shows for 2026! I have an original pop group called Three Second Chances (www.threesecondchances.com), and we have performance opportunities on the horizon. I’m continuing my work with Music Drives Us, auditioning for theater projects, and putting myself out there. I’d love the chance to perform with every Pops orchestra I can. I’m so grateful for what I get to do — I don’t take it for granted.
And finally, what do you hope audiences will feel when they hear you perform with the Phil on November 21?
I hope they feel joy — because that’s what I feel when I get to sing for people. I’d love for them to come to more of my shows and follow along with my musical adventures on Instagram: @jacynthegirl.
