“Every path is different, but what really makes the difference is being able to market yourself. Treating your passion for music and dance as a business is the challenge,” she coached. Wirries stressed the importance of networking. “It is everything,” she said. In a practical take-away she reminded the students to “find joy in your passion and never forget what you love about your music!” 

Wirries shared her experience in growing up with community theater in Sarasota, New York, where she met Leif Bjaland, Maestro of the Waterbury Symphony Orchestra, who played a key role in her being at NVCC this day! Again, she showed the importance of networking. “Everyone knows someone!” 

She sang three songs accompanied by NVCC Music professor, Gil Harel, Ph.D., which included "No One Else" from Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812 (music and lyrics by Dave Malloy), "Christmas Lullaby" from Songs for a New World (music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown), and "On the Steps of the Palace" from Into the Woods (music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim).  

Dr. Harel had this to add: "Maria's impact on our students was profound. As enchanted as they were by her exquisite voice, they were equally charmed by her charismatic and affable personality. This was an eye-opening and ear-tantalizing session that reaffirmed our pursuit of excellence in performing arts. We hope to have Maria visit again in the near future!"