Miami, FL – March 31, 2016 – For over a decade, Tom Windish’s agency has been a leader in key aspects of the music industry necessary for an artist’s breakout success and career longevity. The Windish Agency oversees the bookings of Lorde, Diplo, and hundreds of artists for performances all over the world. One such talent includes Niia Bertino (2005 YoungArts Winner in Voice), whose music has been described as modern noir, dream pop and future jazz. In a standing-room only Salon Talk supported by the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, Tom and Niia spoke about their start in the business; the challenges and opportunities that impacted their careers; and the importance of finding your voice, building a team, and remaining authentic. Moderator and Director of Campus Programming Esther Park noted that her emails to Tom’s office were always returned, and attendees—mostly comprised of movers in the local music and entertainment industry—shared similarly positive experiences. Niia talked about her own personal trajectory, and the ways in which surrounding herself with the right people has been vital to honing an audience receptive to her sound. Currently recording in Los Angeles, her debut LP will be released later this year with the equally mysterious Robin Hannibal of Danish duo Quadron. “It’s about dreams and love,” she says.

The talk and Q & A session was followed an acoustic performance by Niia, accompanied by Josh Bermudez (2014 YoungArts Winner in Jazz.) Notable guests included Ashley Turchin, Stephanie Zilo, Marilyn Berens, Elizabeth Coppolecchia, Robert Horton, Jillian Jacobson, Jason Fitzroy Jeffers, Aramis Lorie, Melanie Masterson, Marya Meyer, Hassan Pierre, Lee Pivnik, Meital Stavinksy, Keen One, and Christy “Cuci” Amador and Tony “Smurphio” Laurencio of Afrobeta. Wine and bites were provided by Starr Catering Group. ​