What’s your full name and your stage name?

My full name is Diana Dela Torre. I used to use “Andi Torres” as my stage name when I was in college but now I use my real name which is Diana.

 

Birthday and your birthplace?

I was born on December 5, 1993 (Sagittarius woman) in Manila.

 

When did you know you are inclined to music?

I knew I was inclined to music when I joined the small chapel choir near our place. Music made me feel great and it really inspired me every time I would hear motivational songs or write my own (though I know I’m not as great as the others). Music moves me.

 

When did you start playing?  Which instruments do you play? What was the first tune(s) you learned?

I started playing the piano when I was elementary, I believe I was in Grade 4 or 5 that time, then I learned to play the guitar when I was 14. The first that song I learned on the guitar was Kitchie Nadal’s “Same Ground”.

 

Describe your first instrument. Other instruments.

The first instrument that I learned to play was the piano, I was an elementary student back   then. I already forgot the first song I learned, but I remember playing the piece “Fur Elise” for my recital. Years later, after losing my note-reading skills due to inactivity, I started playing by ear.

 

Who helped you achieve learning your instrument of interest or who is your vocal coach? Who was your first teacher? Other teachers?

The only music teacher that I had was Ms. Connie ( I didn’t take guitar or voice lessons), she was the one who taught me how to play the piano. Ms. Connie was really nice and patient  with me, I enjoyed learning from her.       

 

Is your family musical?
I think so? Hehe. Well, we’re not as musical as the others, but my father is Cebuano so he plays the guitar and both of my grandparents play the piano, so I guess we’re kinda musical. Hehe

 

Describe your family member's musical interests and abilities.
My family loves listening to old songs, even my sister whose playlist is comprised mostly of popular songs, enjoys listening to old music too.

 

Which famous musicians do you admire? Why?

I do admire a lot of musicians, these include Jason Mraz, John Mayer, Katy Perry, Eagles,  Bruno Mars, and of course Michelle Branch. I usually admire musicians who have inspiring stories and those who have brave and interesting personalities. I don’t just look at the skills, I also try to look at their backgrounds and the other things that they offer aside from their music.

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What are your fondest musical memories? In your house? In your neighborhood or town?
I have so many musical memories that I like and cherish, but the 3 most memorable of them all would be the following:
1.) When I performed at the school contest (the only contest I’ve joined) and all my block mates came to see me play and support me. I won 1st runner up that night, but what really made my day was their presence and their cheering voices that made feel loved and appreciated. They were the real prize for me.

2.) When I was still in a band with my band mates who were like brothers to me.
3.) When I perform with other artists and get to know them in gigs at local bars.

 

Were you influenced by old records & tapes? Which ones?
I’m not sure if I can say I was “influenced” by old records, but I’ll just say that I loved listening to old records and tapes :)

 

What was you first original composition? What was it all about, lyrical message/content?
My first song is called “Back to Me”, it’s a very childish love song I wrote when I was 14, so I really find it funny every time I look at the paper where I wrote it or when I play it.

 

Have you been in competitions? Himig handog? Philpop? Or any other?  Any prizes?

I’ve only joined one contest and it was a talent contest in school. I haven’t joined any local, national, or prestigious competitions yet.

 

Do you perform in public? Describe those occasions? Concerts, radio, TV guestings?

Yes, I do perform at bars, birthdays, school events, and small gatherings. I’ve also performed some of my original songs live online. I haven’t tried performing in a concert or in national
television yet, but I’d love to someday! =)

 

How do you handle mistakes during a performance?
It depends how much I mess up but I usually just go on with the performance. Like what the wise performers say, the show must go on.

 

Do you get nervous before a performance or a competition?
Yes! I’ve been performing since I was young but I still get nervous before I go on stage. Well, not all the time but sometimes. Then I just pray so that it goes away. It works for me.

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What’s you other job or music job you are offering?

I used to be a Property Investment Consultant in ALVEO, an Ayala Land company, then I resigned to help in the family business and to manage my small business as well.

 

What advice would you give to beginners or to those who wish to follow you music goals? To fellow indie artists?
Never be ashamed of your dreams. If you want to become a famous musician (or dancer, or lawyer, or architect etc), don’t be afraid to say it. And don’t try to deny it while secretly wanting it deep inside. Someone used to tell me jokingly that I’m too ambitious to dream of becoming a renowned music artist and that it was a bit shallow that I dreamed of becoming famous. Then I just laughed it off while saying “libre lang naman mangarap diba, bat liliitan ko pa”. Hehe I knew the joke was half meant, but I just ignored it because I know that she doesn’t know that aside from being recognized, I also want to inspire young musicians someday and help others.
 

 

How do you balance your music with other obligations – family, friends, children, job?

I just use my planner, it helps me stay organized. I love my planner hehe.

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So again, to all my fellow musicians and for all the beginners out there (who I’m sure will be great musicians in the years to come), “never be ashamed of your dreams”. It’s your right to dream big.