Andrew Karnavas of AndyRoo and the AndyRooniverse is a successful children’s musician, songwriter, and music producer based in Houston, TX. Since 2011, he has inspired young audiences with his original music for kids. As AndyRoo, he performs catchy, upbeat tunes that invite children into a whimsical world of music and adventure called the AndyRooniverse.
Andrew describes the AndyRooniverse as “an ever-expanding landscape based on the imagination of kids today.” Through this world, he encourages kids to be creative and imaginative through musical experiences. Read Andrew’s story of becoming a successful children’s musician and how he uses the GigSalad platform to do more of what he loves!
Becoming a Children’s Musician
Since 2006, Andrew has performed as a solo singer/songwriter, lead singer, and rhythm guitarist in Blues Rock and Americana bands. Creating and performing children’s music began unexpectedly and grew into a joy-filled passion. Now, he performs nearly 100 shows yearly as a children’s musician, inspiring young people and spreading positivity.
The Beginning
Explaining his journey to becoming a children’s musician, Andrew says, “I started writing children’s music in 2011 for my sister’s kids. It was so much fun that I decided to create a children’s music project called AndyRoo and the AndyRooniverse…”. However, Andrew doesn’t limit his creativity and continues to make all kinds of music, but he states that “…making children’s music is my favorite thing to do.”
As AndyRoo, he invites listeners to an imaginative space, the AndyRooniverse, full of clever ideas and unique characters. The creation of AndyRoo and the Andyrooniverse stems from his childhood imagination. Andrew explains that he “used to imagine a world of singing and dancing animals called the AndyRooniverse, and he would go on adventures with them to explore, imagine, and make the world a better place.”
Creative Challenges
Andrew finds the challenge in writing children’s music to be “…creating songs that have a positive message and get the kids to move their bodies.” He further explains, “I want the songs to be catchy and simple without being annoying or cliche.”
Reflecting on the craft of songwriting, Andrew says, “I think every artist wants to present their authentic self in their chosen medium. As a songwriter, whether I am writing for kids or adults, I am always asking, ‘Is this song I wrote for me or for someone else to sing and perform?’ If it’s not for me, I file it away until I meet the right artist. If it is an AndyRoo song, I spend a lot of time figuring out the simplest way to write the song and the best movements to make the lyrics more visual.”
Joys and Aspirations
The most rewarding part of performing music for a young audience is potentially being “the very first recording artist and performer a kid has ever seen,” Andrew says. He sparks kids’ interest in music by presenting songs in various genres “about things that matter to them, letting them talk on the microphone or touch a guitar…”. Looking ahead, Andrew is excited about working on a fun, educational show for his YouTube channel to inspire kids in new ways to explore, imagine, and make.
Andrew’s GigSalad Journey
Andrew joined GigSalad in 2015 and quickly became successful on the platform as a children’s musician. He has received numerous glowing reviews from clients and consistently lands bookings while staying true to what he does best. Read on to gain insights and tips for success as an entertainer on GigSalad.
Using GigSalad
GS: How did you first hear about GigSalad, and what motivated you to join the platform?
AK: I first heard about GigSalad while researching tools to help me manage my bookings since I do everything myself.
GS: What features of GigSalad do you find most beneficial for promoting your act and managing bookings?
AK: Having all of my reviews in one place is helpful for potential clients who might be booking children’s music for the first time. GigSalad makes it easy for a potential client to browse my PromoKit quickly and decide whether I am the right fit.
✨ Considering upgrading? Read this: Benefits of a Featured GigSalad Membership
Client Communication
GS: Is there a specific response method that has led you to more bookings and success?
AK: I try to respond to requests within 4 hours. My responses are very short and friendly, so clients don’t feel overwhelmed with text.
GS: You have many amazing reviews from past clients. How do you ensure you provide exactly what the client is looking for?
AK: I only send quotes to clients I know I can help. Sometimes, they want someone who will sing Cocomelon or Disney songs. I don’t do that, so I turn those performances down.
🗣️ Read this post for communication tips: How to Respond to a Lead from a Potential Client
Words of Wisdom
GS: If you could give ONE piece of advice to someone considering joining GigSalad, what would it be?
AK: Make sure you have some live video footage of yourself so clients know what to expect. Be nice!
🌟 Looking for more inspirational success stories? Check out last month’s talent spotlight: Meet Videographer David N. Chico
In the landscape of the AndyRooniverse, Andrew inspires young minds with its three pillars: explore, imagine, and make. Through his captivating performances and relatable content, he creates memorable experiences and nurtures a new generation of dreamers and creators. Andrew’s success story is a testament to the magic that happens when passion meets creativity, and we hope to see even more of AndyRoo and the AndyRooniverse with its ability to spark joy and imagination! ?
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.