We recently connected with Trisha Tamblyn and have shared our conversation below.
Trisha, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
I’m a firm believer that there is a lesson in everything. I remember when I was 14, I was contemplating this very idea when I dropped a pencil on the ground. I stopped for a moment when I leaned down to pick it up and thought, “why did I drop this? What was I meant to see?”. I looked for a moment longer and saw the tiniest little spec of glitter stuck in the carpet. Something beautiful and meaningful was hidden in this insignificant little place.
I think of this nearly every day. I never fear that my creativity will run out because I never feel that I’ll be done learning these little lessons life has to offer. I’ll be a creative for as long as there are specs of glitter in the carpet – which is forever.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I am an independent musician, and recently released my debut album! I’ve been writing my own music for as long as I can remember, but I really started to hone in the craft while I was at Lindenwood University. I got my degree in Music Business & Entrepreneurship with a minor in Jazz and Contemporary Music. I’ve always loved jazz, and I developed a deep fondness for rock and punk as well.
I now market myself as an Emo Jazz Witch, no really, I have stickers with that on it! A friend of mine called me that one time and it really stuck. I’m a stereotypical Pisces so I’m very emo, I love jazz music, and I definitely lean into the witchy elements of my personality.
I love that I get to tell stories through music. I used to write stories and poems when I was younger, and eventually all of those developed into songs. I hope that my music can make someone else feel heard and seen one day, that’s always been the dream. Music helps us not feel so alone – so I invite you to listen to mine, and let me know if it makes you feel something!

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I think knowing music theory, the science of sound, and mindfulness practices are the most impotent skills you can have as a musician. You have to understand what you’re doing, at least in my eyes. Once you see how it all works together in perfect chaos, you can appreciate it that much more. For audio engineering and the science of sound – this is crucial for self-starter musicians. Learning how to record, mix, and master effectively will save you thousands of dollars. Mindfulness is imperative as a creative. You have to find a way to ground yourself – we’re the people who often get lost in the ether.
For anyone looking to start a career in music, I have two pieces of advice. 1, pay attention in music theory classes and absorb that information like a sponge. 2. Just go and do it. It will never be the right time. Now is as good as it gets!

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
When I was at Lindenwood, there was one professor who pushed me more than anyone else. To say Professor Adam Donohue is a mentor to all would be putting it lightly. Once he knows what you’re capable of as a musician and artist, that bar will not be lowered. But in the same sense, Professor Donohue will always push you to understand your own limits. When I was on the brink of burnout, Donohue sat me down and just kept asking me ‘why’. It’s truly an infuriating conversation – because that’s literally all he will say! But he asks why until we get to the root, and then the learning begins. I learned more about myself and my motivations/internal hindrances in my meetings with Donohue than I had in any of my years leading up to Lindenwood. I will forever be grateful for his professionalism and his dedication to realistic excellence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://trishatamblyn.bandzoogle.com/home
- Instagram: @Trisha.tam
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCGjBSuINZvOJgSAxsVH0mxg?si=yQ_LlFfsfoHOGY2C
- Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/3Efqe4pTHuWngjiCP6hl5Z?si=TyB23UkpTGGDxX1UEAxLZg
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/elixir/1763401723
Music Video for “If I Knew”: https://youtu.be/rWkmhLTghTQ




Image Credits
Taylour Moenster Photography
Alex Brooks Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
