Anna Maria Mottola
Anna Maria Mottola | |
|---|---|
| Born | Anchorage, Alaska, USA |
| Genres | Classical, Jazz, Contemporary |
| Occupation(s) | Pianist, Music Director, Educator |
| Instruments | Piano |
| Years active | 2003–present |
| Associated acts | The President’s Own United States Marine Band |
Anna Maria Mottola is an American pianist celebrated for her versatility and extensive career as the Lead Pianist for “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band in Washington, D.C. Serving from 2003 to 2023, she performed for all living American first families and numerous global dignitaries during the administrations of Presidents George W. Bush, Barack Obama, Donald Trump, and Joe Biden.
Early Life and Education
Born in Anchorage, Alaska, Mottola began her musical education at the age of four. She graduated from Robert Service High School in Anchorage in 2000 and attended Arizona State University in Tempe, where she studied jazz and classical piano under Chuck Marohnic, Mike Crotty, and Robert Hamilton.[1]
Career
Mottola joined “The President’s Own” United States Marine Band in June 2003 and was appointed as the principal pianist and section leader in September 2013. Throughout her career, she performed iconic works such as Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Piano Concerto in F, Liszt’s Totentanz, Shostakovich’s Piano Concerto No. 2, and Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 3 under the baton of Leonard Slatkin. She also held administrative roles such as Piano Section Leader, Chamber Music Coordinator, Supply Requisition Officer, and was the founder and director of the first and only Latin Big Band in the Marine Corps.[2]
Beyond her military service, Mottola served as Music Director, Choir Coach, and Accompanist at Christ Crossman United Methodist Church from 2005 to 2017. She also shared her talents as a piano teacher, training students in both classical and contemporary styles.
Awards and Recognitions
Mottola has garnered several awards throughout her career, including Second Prize in the Jacob Flier International Competition, representing Alaska in the MTNA national competition, winner of the Arizona State University school-wide concerto competition, and recipient of the Ravenscroft Jazz and Music Performance full scholarship award at ASU.[3]
Later Career and Legacy
Currently, Mottola serves as Founder and Board Member for the Blue Ridge Center for Music and the Arts, managing musical programs for various age groups. Her commitment to musical excellence and education continues to influence the wider musical community.
Personal Life
When not performing or teaching, Mottola enjoys volunteering at local animal shelters, fishing in Alaska, antiquing in Virginia, and oil painting.
References
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