We were lucky to catch up with Ciaran Sontag recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ciaran, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
As an artist and performer, success is often measured by personal achievements or individual accolades. But as a teacher, I have learned that my success and fulfillment comes from investing in others. Every year I host a talent show at my school, North Florida School of Special Education. This event is my pride and joy, as I am able to share my love of performing with my students. I take pride in creating an environment where my students can take the stage and feel the rush of performing for an audience. Each year, over 50 students take the stage and share their unique abilities and talents with their community. I’m overwhelmed by the outpouring of love for these young performers. I consider this one of the best ways to give back to my community, by using my influence to uplift others who may not otherwise have the chance to shine. I feel like this impactful event rejuvenates my love for performing every year in an industry that can oftentimes feel very demanding and draining.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am a music teacher, worship leader, and musician who plays music at different bars, restaurants, and private events. I specialize in acoustic live looping, using a variety of instruments to create a unique sound to sing popular music from all decades and genres. I find great joy in spreading positivity through music and specialize in family-friendly, feel-good music.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My mission is to make a positive impact on my community through my music. This mission has guided my career choices, and led me to build a music program at North Florida School of Special Education that impacts the lives of students with intellectual differences. It also shapes the way I perform my live show with song choices that are uplifting, and announcements in between songs encouraging people to spend more time with the people they love and to be grateful for the people and things they have in their lives, The third aspect of this mission is being connected with a local church that helps many people in need in our Jacksonville community. As the worship leader, I get to lead the congregation and help create an atmosphere that is conducive of healing, change, and growth in their relationship with Jesus. By following my moral compass I have been able to create a personal brand of love, positivity, and support through music.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of performing is connecting with people on an emotional level. I consider it a privilege to be the soundtrack of people’s experiences, whether it’s at a restaurant or bar, at church, or in the classroom, I get to connect with people and impact them through my music. I have had so many people tell me how my performance unlocked a special feeling in them, as if I was singing directly to them, or if I had chosen a particular song that was exactly what they needed to hear at that moment. They say people listen with their eyes, ears, and heart, and whenever you can connect all three through your performance you are able to bring people to a higher place through your music. That is my goal with every performance, to reach people and give them an experience that is meaningful and memorable.
Contact Info:
- Website: csontagmusic.com
- Instagram: @ciaransontag
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@musicclasswithmr.sontag