On City Lights’ series “Speaking of Music,” local musicians share work and stories in their own voices. Today we feature Atlanta’s Maggie Schneider, member of the local quintet known as glimmers. The band considers themselves unapologetic “hopeless romantics,” and their blend of pop and rock celebrates their own friendship as much as the kaleidoscopes of feelings that inform their songwriting.
Schneider serves her band primarily as lead vocalist, but her talents extend to piano and acoustic guitar. She named an array of influences, including Paramore, Demi Lovato, Mayday Parade, “and everything in between.” A stage performer deep down, Schneider’s resumé also includes work in an Atlanta non-profit theater company, starring in musicals and plays. To hear her, you’d never know she only took up a role as pop singer and songwriter as an adult, after years of experience in musical theater; her competence behind the microphone shines.
“I think something that gets me out of bed every morning is the hope that I could inspire someone else with the songs that I write,” said Schneider. Still bringing the influence of her musical theater background, she’s devoted to audiences, and gets as much inspiration from them as she gives. Featured track “Not Good at Goodbyes” is Schneider’s favorite among their recent releases, and it skillfully contrasts a hard-hitting power pop chorus with delicate acoustic verses, and the plaintive melodies tug at the heartstrings with Schneider’s deftly wielded vibrato.
Among the Atlanta landmarks Schneider shouts out is the historic Masquerade. She first performed there when she was 12 years old. “I would really consider that place my home,” said Schneider. “I’m super thankful for that space and the family there, giving me the opportunity to share my music and grow not only as an artist, but as a person.”
glimmers performs Feb. 15 at the Masquerade. More from glimmers can be found at https://glimmersband.com/
