Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ana Done. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Ana thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?
In my work within the wedding industry, I’ve observed significant trends towards Neo-Classical and “pop meets Beethoven” arrangements, marking a shift from traditional Classical music. The influence of Bridgerton on musical preferences has been profound since its premiere, with brides frequently requesting variations reminiscent of its style. Operating primarily as a solo artist rather than part of a quartet, I strive to accommodate each bride’s desire for this hybrid musical approach.
Unfortunately, live musicians are not always a priority for brides today, which reflects current realities. However, those who appreciate and can afford the live experience still seek it out. Concurrently, there’s a rising preference for streaming music during ceremonies, prompting me to engage more deeply in arranging, producing, recording, mixing, mastering, and distributing my own covers and interpretations tailored for weddings. This approach resonates not only with brides but also with a global audience enjoying this evolving genre.
The appeal extends beyond weddings, encompassing a feeling for of the magical which can be seen on TikTok, in BookTok videos, and various other fantasy content. Music is transcending traditional genre boundaries, embracing a stylistic and individualistic approach to artistic expression. While some playlist curators and listeners may still adhere strictly to genre classifications, many are embracing this creative evolution.
I find this shift in musical expression to be inspiring and transformative. It underscores the beauty of diverse interpretations and styles, enriching our artistic growth.
Ana, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hello, I’m Ana Done. Originally from Galati, Romania, I immigrated to the United States with my parents in 2006. I began playing the violin at the age of 7 and have continued for nearly 21 years, participating in orchestras, church, school events, and competitions across America.
After earning my bachelor’s in music education and master’s in violin performance, I embarked on a journey playing with quartets and eventually as a soloist for various events. Discovering my passion for music, I decided to establish my own wedding and events music business. I perform live at local farmers markets, diverse venues throughout Texas, and now nationwide, as well as churches, corporate events, private parties, and celebrations.
In addition to live performances, I’ve built an extensive catalog of recorded covers, specializing in wedding violin interpretations of popular songs across genres and styles. Adaptability, flexibility, and passion are the cornerstones of my success. I persevere relentlessly and thrive on the exhilaration of performing, forging new connections, and nurturing lasting relationships.
My daily pursuits keep me well-rounded and exceptionally busy, a lifestyle I embrace with pride. I’ve cultivated my skills independently and am deeply grateful to those who have guided me along the way. It humbles me when brides connect with my covers or videos and choose to include me in their special day.
Gratitude, professionalism, and kindness define my brand, and I strive to embody these values in every aspect of my work. I am eternally thankful for everything I have achieved and look forward to continuing this journey with sincerity and dedication.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I honestly don’t even know if I’m qualified enough to give anyone advice on social media. It’s definitely a challenge more often than not when it comes to the algorithm, engagement and connections. It feels like a constant game of chess with an invisible player. In 2020, I started building very slowly by playing in quartets and finding what I most enjoyed when it came to performing and musical style. Eventually I began recording and my violin covers reached people quite fast on streaming services. I think that maybe creating over 400 videos might’ve also contributed to getting my name and face out there! Of course, views were always up and down and I’ve honestly barely seen the “millions”. I’ve learned to never carry too much frustration or dependence upon how many people see my videos. I care more about WHO sees my videos. Who do I want to attract? What kind of people do I want to work with, where do my passions lie and do I want to remain a solo player forever? I’ve got some ideas, but reaching the audiences I want is slow because I am also figuring out what it is I am looking for in all of this. However, taking time thinking about HOW I’ll meticulously fix something or WHEN I’ll achieve my ultimate goal is not an approach that I take. It wastes creative time to sit there and try to perfect every single little thing or attempt to control my future. At the end of the day, it’s the DOING and the actual act of risking that takes you to higher levels. I just keep doing and grinding and working until I reach a better level each time, improve my sound and maybe find my vision of success. I think I’m almost there but I’ve got a few big goals to reach first.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
I can’t speak for anyone else, but the most effective strategy for my own business has been true authenticity and extremely clear communication. I am not copying someone else’s style or how they speak or dress or play or behave. I always approach people as 100% myself and am willing to answer ANY and ALL questions. If they like what they see, they’ll hire me and choose me for their event. If they do not, then that is not a loss for me; I simply move on. Ultimately, I want people that truly see me for who I am and see my heart in all I do. Growing clientele takes patience and perseverance. I’ve been extremely fortunate to meet some great people behind the scenes that root me on. Slowly, my name has been passed around to many people and I’m finding myself being recommended by groups and musicians that I do not even know and have not met personally. It honors me that strangers have helped me grow and it saddenes me that the people I thought I could work with have not really chosen to remain committed to growing with me. I am comfortable in my own path and I choose to give kindness to everyone that crosses my path. I am honored to be where I am today and I am thankful to those that do believe in me and have helped me so much. I hope to one day repay them tenfold.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.anadone.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anaisdone/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anadoneviolin/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anadone
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLJQdLKNUI_7ymB-wwUi9dQ
Image Credits
Carmel Studios Photography
Mitchell Martin Photography
Sin Lee Creations
KayLee V Photography
Emily Blodgett Photography