Music major receives $2,000 grant from Lewes nonprofit

Songwriter and college student Gabriella Pasqua recently received a $2,000 grant from Paul Kares to pay for the recording and mastering of her original songs. 

The Woodstown, N.J. native has performed at The Room at Cedar Grove, the Lewes entertainment venue managed by Paul Kares.

“She had an excellent performance at The Room, great references and a compelling application essay,” said Jim Rivette, president of Paul Kares, who founded the nonprofit with Paul Cullen. “Our awards committee voted unanimously for her.”

Pasqua, 20, is a junior at Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn., majoring in songwriting with a creative writing minor.

“I will be using the funds to get two of my original songs produced for release on streaming platforms,” Pasqua said. “I would love to showcase my growth as a writer and artist.” She will also use the songs to land gigs.

Pasqua said her interest in music began early, with her family’s support. “Learning songs, instruments and writing was a huge part of my childhood, and my parents always supported my passion to create,” she said.

Sound Acres producer/engineer Gary Cioni said he looks forward to working with Pasqua again.

“She’s an extremely talented singer and songwriter, and the songs we’re currently working on are sounding great so far,” Cioni said. “I’m confident this project will be valuable both for her university work and her continued professional development.”

Pasqua called the award a meaningful step toward her professional goals.

“This grant is so incredibly helpful, and I am beyond grateful,” she said. “It gives me the ability to share my love for music with others, and live out my dream of becoming an artist and songwriter. This opportunity is one I will forever be thankful for.”