We were lucky to catch up with Jess Le recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jess, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you recount a story of an unexpected problem you’ve faced along the way?
One of the biggest problems I’ve faced was recognizing and accepting that I was often the one standing in my own way. I’d feel stuck and discouraged about not being where I wanted to be creatively, but when I actually stopped to ask myself why, usually the answer was that I was scared to try. Being your own block is a layered issue, and involves a lot of self-reflection and honestly, bravery to break out of it. To work past it, I dug into the limiting beliefs I developed over the years, challenged myself to take risks, consistently pushed myself out of my comfort zone (in little ways at first, then built on that), and put myself out there creatively. It’s anxiety-inducing and feels unstable, but the more you do it, the more you realize…nothing is actually the end of the world. You’ll be better for it and you’ll always learn something about yourself. Plus meet really cool people in the process!
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I am a keys player, commercial/runway model, and currently on my way to being a board-certified music therapist! I grew up in the classical piano world since I was six years old, and shifted around the creative/musical world the past few years. I got my degree in 2019 in Music Business, with a piano performance emphasis and a minor in Human Services. After moving to Nashville in 2021, I started working as an assistant director at a music school and have currently shifted into more of a freelance lifestyle between playing gigs and modeling. I love getting to dip into different sides of expression and getting to live in a place that allows me to do that often. I play keys for artists, usually in town (I love supporting independent local artists!) in live shows and studio work. My modeling work is through an agency, mostly for brands, creative concepts, and runway shows. I’m really excited to join the music therapy world, hopefully be board-certified by summer 2026, and use my training and clinical knowledge to meet needs in our communities.
I’m proud of the fact that I was able to let go of my very tightly held plans, my “need” to know what life was going to look like, my desire to know every purpose and right answer…instead, leaning into being present in the work that I am currently doing, allowing my purpose and plans to shift. This perspective allowed me to take the road to what I believe will be my long-term career as a music therapist. Despite the stress, the instability, and the sometimes very aggravated Type A side of me, I honestly wouldn’t have had it any other way.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is the significant connection that it establishes with others. Communities spring up because we find people who love the same thing we do; it’s a beautiful thing to share your unique mind and talents with others, as well as be inspired by theirs.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
One of my main goals is to inspire authenticity by presenting authenticity. I spent much of my life under the pressure to be an inauthentic version of myself, whether from others or myself, and it became incredibly unhealthy, both creatively and generally. The more I connect to who I am created to be and the purposes I am given, the more authentic my connection with others and my art is. I really believe that being your genuine self invites and allows others to do the same.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: jessara.le
- Facebook: Jessica Le
Image Credits
Attikus Ebenhack
Ericky Hernandez
James Isaac Jones