Meet Kara Brusven | Multi-Genre Guitarist & Freelance Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kara Brusven and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kara, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Three key habits that have consistently helped me are goal setting, time management, and establishing healthy boundaries.

First, setting clear goals and plans behind your actions allows for better boundaries, effective energy and time management, and the ability to prioritize what matters to you instead of what is expected of you. Goals may evolve over time, and can sometimes be vague starting out, but maintaining a general trajectory will help guide decision-making.

Second, time management, along with being fully present, is vital for producing high-quality work efficiently, preventing burnout, achieving work-life balance, and combating overthinking. Utilizing timers and techniques like the Pomodoro technique can be helpful in maintaining focus, taking breaks, and improving overall productivity.

Third, establishing boundaries in communication, time allocation, and energy management is crucial. Boundaries should not be seen as barriers in relationships but as a means to foster healthier connections, honor self-worth, and prevent mistreatment. Also, broken boundaries are not a sign that your boundaries are invalid. When boundaries are consistently disrespected, it often indicates underlying issues such as communication problems, conflicting values, or emotional unhealthiness. This information clarifies your response to others’ behavior, rather than simply expecting them to change, by guiding you in adjusting the level of access an individual has to you both personally and professionally.

Overall, it is important to note that my methods for reinforcing these habits are subjective and may not apply universally, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for you! Also, be open to your methods changing as you mature and never expect absolute perfection from yourself. It takes time to build healthy habits, so be patient with yourself and enjoy the journey!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a multi-genre guitarist, I have gained over ten years of musical experience in both the recording studio and on stage. I also have expanded into work as a producer, composer, arranger, teacher, singer, and multi-instrumentalist. In general, I am the type of musician who thrives in diversity, consistent challenges, and work that is deeply meaningful.

I am most proud of the projects where I had the opportunity to recognize others’ potential when they were not ready to see that within themselves. It is an amazing experience supporting an individual in the development of their confidence while we turn their creative vision into tangible reality. Whether I am performing with a band, tracking parts for a music release, teaching a student, or producing an album; I always love bringing out the best in those around me while creating content that people can deeply connect with.

Based on what I have heard from my colleagues and clients, it is my drive, passion, commitment, work ethic, and love of learning that sets me apart as a musician. I always take the time to thoroughly process who I am and why I do what I do. This awareness has granted me a deep sense of gratitude for my musical pursuits that propels me forward towards my goals so that, when inevitable problems arise, I have the tools needed to process and grow through each challenge towards a more equitable and positive solution.

Moving forward, after recently graduating from the Frost School of Music, I am excited to continue gigging in Miami in a variety of genres, start interning as a producer at a local recording studio, finish editing my upcoming album, start writing and recording demos for my next album, and continue working on various recording projects with other musicians from around the country.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The first place we would go is paddle-boarding and swimming at the beaches on Key Biscayne. Beyond the nice beaches, the lighthouse, and good walking trails; Key Biscayne is a really accessible beach that is quiet and has lots of fun food spots to try on the way back. At some point in the week, I would love to bring my friend to some live music at the Frost Institute of Music and for a walk at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens. As is often the case with most of my friends, we will most likely improvise a bit in the week as well regarding food spots and discover some other local music hangs along the way. I have found that there are plenty of small “hole-in-the-wall” venues in Miami such as the Understory, Lagniappe, and The Corner that are great for live music. In general, I think the best way to explore Miami is to maintain an open mind to what the culture has to offer while not being afraid to try new foods and embrace the beautiful outdoor locations.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my family, friends, teachers, and listeners who have been unwavering in their support of me as a musician and an individual. I am also immensely thankful to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ for placing these remarkable individuals in my life at precisely the perfect moments. Their support during challenging times, shared joy during successes, and the valuable lessons we have learned together have had a profound impact on my journey. Thank you to everyone who has shown me so much love and consideration!  

Website: https://karabrusven.com/home

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karabrusven/

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/kara-brusven

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrusvenKara

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KaraBrusven/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KaraBrusvenGuitarPianoVocal

Other: https://linqapp.com/kara_brusven

Image Credits
Tyden Rickard and Booge Enterprises