Maria Bonanno says she “can’t remember a time when music wasn’t an essential part of my life”. Known for her poignant lyrics and clear voice, Maria’s musical chops reflect a lifetime of devotion to her art. She began studying piano at age 7, guitar at 8, and classical voice at 12 and Maria wrote her first song when she was 11. A passionate lover of all types of music, Maria counts everything from Traditional Irish music to Bob Dylan to Sarah McLachlan among her influences.
A member of the Songwriters Showcases of America (SSA) , Maria can be found performing at many of their events as well as various hotels, cafes, and bars throughout Central Florida. She was nominated for SSA’s “Female Solo Act of the Year” award in both 2004 and 2005. Her masterfully crafted songs and commanding stage presence have earned her a loyal and supportive local fan base. Additionally, Maria released a self-produced EP in 2005, entitled “Testament”.
Maria Bonanno Bio
Acoustic pop artist Maria Bonanno is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter based out of Ormond Beach, Florida. A passionate lover of all types of music, Maria counts Traditional Irish music, Bob Dylan, and Sarah McLachlan among her many influences.
Maria is currently performing in various venues in Volusia County with plans to expand to more regional locations in the near future. A member of the Songwriter’s Showcases of America (SSA), she has participated in a number of their events, including the Deland Original Music Festival and Beachside Live. In addition, Maria was nominated for their “Female Solo Act of the Year” for 2004 and now 2005. Maria’s clear mezzo-soprano voice and poetic, though-provoking lyrics have earned her a loyal and supportive local fan base. In addition to performing, Ms. Bonanno released a self-produced EP this year.
Originally from Tampa, Florida, Maria likes to joke that she was “born singing”. She says, “I can’t remember a time that music was not an essential part of my life”. Maria began formally studying piano at age seven, guitar at eight, classical voice at twelve, and started writing songs when she was eleven. Inspired by the female singer-songwriters of the past such as Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez, Maria started taking her show on the road when she was only fourteen. She performed original songs and covers on guitar and vocals at local festivals and coffee shops throughout Florida, from Sarasota to Gainesville. Now 26, and still going strong in Florida, Maria’s long-term goal is to perform nationally, and to secure recording contract that will allow her to share her music with a wide audience.
Maria’s poignant songwriting and passionate performance make her shows not-to-be missed events for music lovers. Look for Ormond Beach’s favorite singer-songwriter, Maria Bonanno, at a venue near you soon – you’ll soon be another loyal fan.