We recently connected with Matt Kozlovac and have shared our conversation below.
Matt, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?
My parents were always supportive of my passion for music, but they always emphasized the importance of school and having something to fall back on. Since I was a kid, I’ve simultaneously pursued a career in music while also pursuing a professional career in the 9-5 world. Sometimes I have to focus on one more than the other, but it gives me balance and brings me joy knowing that I can do what I love and pay the bills at the same time.
They both supported my development in music – attending performances, listening to my new songs, and encouraging me to practice at high volumes when they probably just wanted some peace and quiet. They were also very involved in my studies throughout my academic career, supporting and encouraging me through two Bachelors degrees and a Masters degree. I probably wouldn’t have finished school if it weren’t for them urging me to keep going.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a musician based in Pennsylvania and I play in a band called Koz (www.musicofkoz.com). We have original music (https://tinyurl.com/Koz-Music) that we pour our hearts and souls into, and we also play corporate gigs and weddings around the country.
What started out as a hobby transformed into a small music business – writing/recording/promoting our original music and working with clients to give them crowd-pleasing corporate events and fun, dance-filled wedding receptions. What I didn’t know when this all began was how to run a wedding timeline, emcee an event, or work any of the high-tech music equipment that we use each gig. I’ve been lucky to have many teachers and friends show me the ropes as I go.
Now, we are an established band and one of the top corporate bands in the area. We recently played the Picklesburgh festival in front of 20,000+ people and we continue to look to grow and get better. It’s been a fun journey and we look forward to continuing to grow.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
This industry seems to ebb and flow. Some months are jam packed and hectic, while others seem slow and make me worry if we’ll ever get work again. I like to serve as a community connector in this space so I am in the know about what’s going on and continue to expand my network. The key for us is the 3 P’s: Be Patient, Be positive, Be persistent. You’ll get there.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Making music helps me make sense of what I’m seeing and what I’m feeling. I like to sit down with my guitar after a long day and try to capture those feelings and emotions musically. It’s a challenge – but it’s well worth it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.musicofkoz.com
- Instagram: @musicofkoz
- Facebook: @musicofkoz
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MusicofKoz
- Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/349OPHsNzC2ETx9EZrxBfp?si=GcBcjK3oQVS-QJJoxoEb7Q
Image Credits
Jordan Schofield Photography (Picklesburgh shots)
GMV Photography (Group photo, Koz solo photo)