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Meet Devin Angelet

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Devin Angelet.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Devin. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I grew up in New York and new from age ten I wanted a career in music. At first, I knew I wished to conduct but by age 14, I knew singing would be my main specialty. I studied percussion and voice in public school and with a private teacher on vibraphone. Tom Cunane. Jeff Wutster, Ari Contzius and Jim Briggs were instrumental in my success during my high school music career. I earned many accolades from performances and competitions. My parents supported me the best they could, encouraging me to be my very best.

That being said I grew up in a dysfunctional family, lots of addiction. I’m still healing from that. Alcoholism scarred me. By the time I arrived at Berklee College of Music, I was unequipped for life on my own in the city. I clung to anyone and anything familiar got addicted to marijuana and an abusive relationship. That came with a major blessing, my four year old son. Angels watched over me and kept me safe from Boston to Arizona, a journey I made in attempts to escape the madness I’d come to call my life. Little did I know, wherever I go, there I am. It’s in Arizona that I got sober and left the abusive relationship.

I met Amy and Tammie, two courageous women helped me stay sober while I raised my son as a single parent working at Starbucks. I hated working for a corporation but it helped me learn some sense of discipline. I left that position to wait tables at a restaurant for a few months that later would be the first establishment to give me a residency as a performing artist and I’ve been playing there for over a year now. Next, I started a position as director of music at school for children with autism and other developmental disabilities where I learned so much and so fast. Emily Holly is a saint, one of the strongest women I’ve ever met. She believed in me more than I believed in me. I saw how her confidence in others inspired them to be their best.

I gigged more and more with the virtuoso guitarist JR Robusto who offered me my first paid gig by his side. A friend, Linda Paige, helped to care for my son during these times and we became family. Finally, in mid 2019 I moved to Phoenix with my fiancée and started my private practice as a vocal teacher full time.

Meeting my fiancée was a turning point in my life. I had just lost one of my closest friends. I was at a rock bottom of sorts in the grieving process. During that time he was (and still is) a bright light in my life, gentle and persistent, inspiring and humble. Here in PHX, I have been performing, teaching and freelancing as a recording artist. My main priority is to finish recording my first album while inspiring my students to reach goals of their own.

Has it been a smooth road?
I have struggled with depression most of my life. I don’t think the word depression tells the whole story. Growing up I witnessed unhealthy methods of coping with emotions, to put it nicely. I learned to lock them inside and acted them out subconsciously in my relationships with myself and others. A critical point in my journey was breaking away from my family of origin.

On my own, I could see more clearly what was my responsibility and what wasn’t. I am realizing that my attitude and my actions are the only things I have control over. I believe in a power greater than myself and that life happens for me, not to me. Thank goodness it’s not all up to me. Learning that I can’t control other people’s places and things has been the most rewarding lesson.

Oh yeah, realizing that falling in love wasn’t going to solve all my problems or make me happy, that’s something I’m still getting over. Being a single mom and pursuing my music career and continuing my studies was tough but I did it the best I could. Learning to put myself as my priority has helped me immensely when it comes to being a parent. If I am feeling and dealing with my own emotions, I can create a safe environment for my child to grow and thrive in.

Please tell us about your work.
I teach vocalists to be their teacher, to find their voice. I create a space where they can feel comfortable to experiment, ask questions and be themselves. As a performer, I’m most known for my soul-touching voice, my great technique and character as a vocalist and my down-to-earth attitude. My originals are vulnerable and relate-able and my covers are refreshing. I’m most proud of the fact that I am still doing what I do after so many nights I thought would be my last. I’m proud that I show up and sing my heart out, inspiration to all who have dealt with inner turmoil but stick around for a dream that just won’t die. I give each individual I encounter my best, I look you in the eye and connect, that’s what’s important to me, let’s connect!

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
My favorite open mic is at the Tempe Center for the Arts on Wednesday nights. Also, I love the food here in PHX. The vast array of flavors. Thus far I have met only friendly people and I hope that continues. Okay, maybe I met one jerk but hey, they were a great reminder of what not to do. I dislike the traffic because it can be stressful at times.

Pricing:

  • 45/hr for vocal lessons
  • Ask me about private parties and events

Contact Info:


Image Credit:
Devin Angelet Photography

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