Performers audition for MTA's 'Music Under New York' program
NEW YORK (PIX11) -- The tone of the train shifts when there’s a song on the subway. The MTA Arts & Design office held auditions for "Music Under New York" on Wednesday at Grand Central Madison.
Janae Catt uses her voice to give the ride some rhythm.
"It's easy to get frustrated when you're traveling. You never know when that one outside influence brings a smile to your face," she said.
The subway is the stage. Jonathan Miron and Philip Sheegog have a band called Arkai, which combines their classical training and a rocking show.
"We are New Yorkers. New York is a place where everyone is running into each other. The subway is the essence of that," said Sheegog.
Acts submit a video to be considered for the final-round competition.
"We are Julliard grads who have gone rogue," added Miron.
MTA Arts & Design runs the program.
"Every day, you wake up, and there are challenges. But you know that you have an opportunity to make a difference and bring some art and music to this transit environment," said MTA Arts & Design Director Sandra Bloodworth.
Eganam Segbefia is a master of the trumpet.
"It’s the best feeling in the world. There's a lot of work that musicians do. We see the tip of the iceberg on stage. This is day-to-day. Music Under New York brings the bridge much closer," Segbefia said.
"Whether you're a frequent subway rider or not, chances are you‘ve encountered one of the many talented performers on your trip, and that’s what this program is all about – creating a positive experience for everyone who travels through New York’s transit system,” said MTA Chief Customer Officer and Senior Advisor Shanifah Rieara.
A panel of industry representatives and performers evaluates the artists. Twenty-five new acts will join the rooster.
MTA Arts & Design said auditionees are judged on “quality, appropriateness for the transit environment and musical variety with the goal of increasing the number of genres represented in the program.”
"Whether you're a frequent subway rider or not, chances are you‘ve encountered one of the many talented performers on your trip, and that’s what this program is all about – creating a positive experience for everyone that travels through New York’s transit system,” said Rieara.
More than 300 musicians appear under the banner. It was created three decades ago.
New members will be announced in June. They are given prime placement at certain subway stations and play under a banner.
Buskers are permitted to perform in the system. The rules state they cannot block pathways or access to the trains.