Join us at Milk St. Studios for an evening of acoustic music, in the round, with two amazing singer/songwriters. Andrea Paquin and April Cushman return for another performance in The Lounge that is guaranteed to be an extra special musical experience.
About the artists:
Andrea Paquin discovered her deep connection to music at a young age. After years of longing for an instrument, she finally received her first guitar and began her self-taught journey. Her passion was ignited with Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young’s Helpless, which she played tirelessly until perfecting it. This marked the start of an impressive musical career. Over time, Andrea mastered guitar, bass, harmonica, and vocals, creating a rich, multifaceted sound that defines her artistry.
For a decade, Andrea played bass and sang harmonies with the band The Everyday Visuals, gaining invaluable experience on stage and in the studio. After 10 years, she pursued her dream of writing and performing her own music, producing five albums to date. Andrea’s unique blend of folk rock tells vivid stories through clever melodies, intricate harmonies, and poignant lyrics. Her sound has drawn comparisons to The Indigo Girls, Melissa Etheridge, Tracy Chapman, and Joni Mitchell, earning her a loyal fanbase.
Andrea’s music has captured the attention of critics, with Nathalie Levey of Northeast Performer Magazine praising her voice as “rich, cozy humility” that “tugs at the heartstrings of her listeners.” She has shared stages with acclaimed artists like Melissa Ferrick, Howie Day, and Blessed Union of Souls andperformed at prestigious events, including Pride festivals across the U.S. and the Raise the Roof Women’s Music Festival in Ontario, Canada.
Her songwriting talents have also been recognized in competitions. Andrea was a finalist in the 2011 CT Folk Festival Songwriting Competition, as well as in Country 92.5's Locals Live, which earned her a performance spot at Mohegan Sun’s renowned Wolf Den. In 2013, she was named RAW Music Artist of the Year for Connecticut. Andrea works with several booking agents throughout the Northeast, reflecting her growing demand as an artist. Many venues she performs at frequently request her return, a testament to the connection she forges with her audiences and the memorable experiences she creates.
In addition to her musical career, Andrea has been working in the field of human services for over 20 years. She currently serves as a clinical coordinator for a nonprofit agency in Connecticut, supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. Andrea frequently volunteers her time, performing at local events to benefit nonprofit organizations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she hosted weekly live-stream concerts every Thursday night, giving individuals in group homes and their families a safe and meaningful way to connect during such a challenging time.
Andrea’s deep commitment to helping others is seamlessly intertwined with her passion for music. Whether raising funds for charitable causes or creating spaces for connection, Andrea continues to inspire through her artistry and dedication.
Named a top 10 emerging artist and songwriter by Tractor Supply and Grammy-winning and multi-ACM winning country artist, Lainey Wilson, New Hampshire native April is a vocal force in the Northeast. April was recently named for two years running, the 2022 & 2023 Country Act of the Year by the New England Music Awards and continues to be sought-after artist who pulls in hearts and ears with every performance. Commonly referred to as a "blend of Ashley McBryde with the story telling of Lori McKenna", April finds inspiration in the every day to use as subjects for her music.
April's passion and love for country music started at just the small age of five. Growing up in church singing with the children's choir, "Key of G", she quickly picked up a sense of music, and it being where her heart felt the most comfortable. Through grade school, April played in concert band and honors jazz band, excelling at flute, alto saxophone and guitar. Her love for energetic, spirited country music has always been heavily influenced by some of her favorite artists including Terri Clark, Wynonna Judd, Ashley McBryde, Lainey Wilson and many more. She has supported artists like Kip Moore, Rodney Atkins, Scotty McCreery, Lonestar, Chase and more, while making appearances at shows for artists like Darius Rucker, Sugarland, Old Dominion and Lainey Wilson.
April is a New Hampshire native, residing in Swanzey, NH on her family farm (Highland Farm) with her husband Mike and daughter Maddison. She has been writing songs with hit writers Marty Dodson, Blue Foley, Rob Snyder, Trick Savage and more in preparation for her next album which is set to release in 2024. Her debut album, "The Long Haul" was released in November 2021 and reached #16 on the iTunes Country Album charts and was produced by Nashville Grammy Nominated Producer, Colt Capperrune.