NYVC Singer Spotlight: Izzy Knapp

How did you discover your passion for singing?

Ever since I was young, I have utilized music as a way to express myself. There was always music playing in my home growing up, and I began singing along as soon as I could talk. In middle and high school, music became something I leaned on as a community builder and an emotional outlet. When aspects of adolescence became too much to speak about, I could let it out through music. I have met some of my best friends through music, and I knew that music’s unparalleled ability to foster connection was something I was going to spend the rest of my life enjoying.

What’s something recent or exciting in your singing journey?

I have performed in a number of cabaret shows since moving to New York, and I am so excited to announce that I will finally be producing and directing my own! My show, Songs of Survival, is a benefit concert raising money for Safe Horizon and platforming the voices and talents of sexual and domestic abuse survivors. It will take place in January at 54 Below, and I am over the moon about combining my passions for music, activism, and community.

What is an interesting or funny fact about you?

One time I took a class at Broadway Dance Center and was paired with P!nk during the partnering section. I played it surprisingly cool, spare forgetting the entire combination as soon as she said hello.

What led you to studying at NYVC?

When I moved to NYC last fall, I knew I wanted to find a musical home outside of my wonderful community at college. While NYVC, of course, promised high quality instruction, I was most drawn in by how many reviews mentioned the friendly and welcoming environment. My coach, Christina, is THE BEST, and I knew I was in the right place after our first lesson. My voice has improved greatly, and I’m getting to work weekly with a coach who I respect so much as both an artist and a friend. I initially chose NYVC for the quality of training, and stayed for the quality of the people.

Who or what are your biggest musical influences?

I have spent my whole life with a very eclectic taste, but some influences and inspirations who have stuck out amongst the rest are Lorde, Bernadette Peters, Alanis Morisette, Caissie Levy, Joan Jett, Joni Mitchell, Mitski, and Alicia Keys.

What styles of music do you sing?

I mostly sing musical theatre, however I also absolutely love to sing rock and folk!

What is one piece of advice you’d love all singers to know?

Music always has been and always will be a tool for storytelling and connection above all else. Your technique and your talent are avenues to successfully wielding this tool, but the second you forget about why you’re singing in the first place, you’ve missed the point. If I just can’t get a note or phrase or whole song to come out right, I slow down and reflect on the lyrics and emotional core. More often than not, allowing myself to fall back on my technique and focus on the feeling is so much more successful than trying to perfect by force.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an artist?

I have struggled with my mental health for a long time, and finding motivation and inspiration to practice and perform consistently can be a challenge when I am in a down period. I have had to learn to give myself lots of grace and be patient as I dually wield my drive to be the best I can be while also taking time to rest and take care of myself when I can find it. It can be very difficult to grapple with illnesses that lower productivity while trying to make it in an industry and culture where “the grind” is so glamourized.

What has been your greatest victory as an artist?

Deciding to build my adult life in New York and move across the country was a huge victory for me, both artistically and personally. I have truly found myself as an artist since moving, and being surrounded constantly by so much culture and life has been instrumental in that discovery. While the achievements, accolades, and goals met over this past year have meant a lot, nothing has been as important to me as being able to say with certainty that I know who I am as an artist. 

Where can people find more about you and your music?

TikTok: @izzyksing

Instagram: @izzyknapptheatre