Musician Spotlight: Grace McNally
Grace McNally is a classically trained guitarist whose style is influenced by various styles and cultures. Audiences enjoy her jazzy, folk-infused repertoire with hints of Cuban, African, and Brazilian melodies and rhythms. Enjoy this special interview and learn about Grace’s musical journey.
“I really fell in love at a young age with Brazilian music, so that was kind of my gateway to the more jazz-esque world.”
-Grace McNally, Guitarist
Watch the Interview with Grace McNally
See Grace McNally perform!
July 24th, 2024
ART OF JAZZ: Grace McNally
With Gino Castillo and Jonathan Lovett
6:00 PM
Gibbes Museum
Tickets: Click Here
Read the Interview Transcript
Generated by AI
[Music]
Hi everyone, you are listening to OHM Radio 96.3 FM. My name is Grace McNally. We’re here on the air for a special Live and Local segment with Lacy Miller from Charleston Jazz. We’re going to be talking all about the Art of Jazz, which is coming up next week. So, let’s dive into it. I am so excited.
Grace, we have been anticipating your show for a long time. You’re a friend of Charleston Jazz. We love every time you perform. Next Wednesday, July 24th at the Gibbs Museum, it’s already here. It’s crazy how time flies. It’s going to sell out, so if you’re listening, get your tickets.
We’re going to reverse roles here. I’m going to interview you because you’re the star of the show. I’d love to learn what inspired your style of music. I’ve watched you play guitar and collaborate with several musicians in town. Your genre and style can’t be put into a box. Who is Grace McNally? How did you develop your style?
That’s a great question. Honestly, it has developed over the years. I started playing when I was about five and studied classical music through college. I was immersed in that world and never really branched out until my senior year when friends in the jazz department inspired me. I fell in love with Brazilian music, which was my gateway to jazz. I took a deep dive after graduating and even traveled to Brazil to experience the culture firsthand. I’ve always been drawn to the improvisational side of jazz, which I find liberating.
Speaking of Latin, you’re bringing on one of Charleston’s premier Latin percussionists…
Gino Castillo, is a dear friend and fantastic musician. We also have Jonathan Lovett on keys and bass. It’s going to be a dynamic performance in a trio format, which we’ve never done before. It’s been really fun to experiment.
When you chose the artwork for the Art of Jazz, exploring works at the Gibbes Museum, a few pieces spoke to you in particular. Is there anything you want to highlight about what inspired you and the pieces you’re working on?
One of the pieces I’ll be exploring is “Search” by William Halsey. We also have “Our Garden” by Renier Illanes and “Grand Dance” by Martin Simpson. It’s been inspiring to connect with these artworks.
It must be special for visual artists to see their work evolve musically. We’re going to post all the images on the screen behind you and your band, creating a fully immersive experience.
You’ve traveled a lot with your music. What are some of your favorite travels?
My parents love to travel, so I grew up doing that. They met in the Peace Corps in Senegal, Africa, and even got married there. We traveled a lot, and my mom exposed me to a wide range of music. As a young adult, I spent time in Nicaragua and Brazil, which deepened my love for Latin American culture. Gino and I even went to Cuba together in 2019, right before the pandemic. It was an incredible experience, especially for exploring Cuban music.
Gino always says he was raised musically in Cuba, and it felt fitting to include him in this event. We’ll be performing arrangements of Leo Brouwer’s works, a Cuban guitarist and composer.
This event combines art and music with light bites and wine, creating a unique night out. If I wasn’t a musician, I’d still gather my friends to attend.
As someone who’s attended many Art of Jazz concerts, I can say they’re a treat. It’s been fun to be on the other side, preparing and creating one.
In addition to music, you’re also on the radio. Tell us about that.
OHM Radio came into my life over two years ago. I’ve always been interested in journalism, almost studying broadcast journalism. When I saw an opening at OHM, I knew I wanted to be part of it. It’s a voice for our community, showcasing local artists, businesses, and nonprofits. It’s a great way to connect with Charleston’s creative scene.
If you could do anything with your music that you haven’t yet, what would it be?
I’d love to go on a tour, performing at festivals domestically and internationally. Also, with my podcast and radio show, “Travel Notes,” I’d love to create a destination podcast.
Thank you, Lacy Miller, for joining me today. The show is coming up next Wednesday, July 24th at 6 p.m. at the Gibbes Museum. It’s called the Art of Jazz, hosted by Gibbes and Charleston Jazz. Thank you everyone for tuning in to OHM Radio. For more information, visit CharlestonJazz.com.
[Music]
