For over the past 20 years, we’ve celebrated the Valley’s best. From the top businesses and professionals to the people who make it all happen, Arizona Foothills Magazine’s annual Best of Our Valley contest recognizes Arizona’s crème de la crème across more than 400 categories. From the best doctors and best resort down to the best cup of coffee you can find around town, each Best of titleholder is chosen by those who know the city best – our readers.
Each week, we’ll be highlighting individual winners from Best of Our Valley 2018, who share their advice, insights and thoughts on what it means to be a part of this exclusive list.
The Best of spotlight is on SoSco Duo, who claimed the Valley’s Best Local Band/Musician. Congrats, SoSco Duo!
AFM: In a brief 2-3 sentences, please tell us a little bit about the SoSco Duo
SoSco Duo (SD): Founded in Scottsdale four years ago, we combined our top-flight musical educations and experiences to create Arizona’s premier flute and guitar duo. We blend classical, contemporary and world music in a sophisticated and unique way for concerts, weddings and corporate events across the Valley.
AFM: What does it mean to you to be a Best of Our Valley winner?
SD: It’s a great honor to be recognized as Best of Our Valley these past two years. We pride ourselves on our local roots and the connections we have made and continue to make in the Phoenix, particularly Scottsdale and the north east Valley. We know that none of our success would be possible without the support of our fans, clients and colleagues.
AFM: What’s your favorite part about being the Best of Our Valley’s Best Local Band/Musician?
SD: Arizona has such a vibrant culture and music plays an integral role in all of it. It is incredibly humbling to know that we are a part of that culture and have been able to contribute in our own small way.
AFM: What advice would you give to others to be the “best” in your field?
SD: In any artistic endeavor, like music, there is the struggle to maintain consistently high levels of motivation and interest at times (multiply that by two since we are a duo!). For musicians it is critical to continue to maintain discipline and continue to practice and improve your repertoire and technique. When in doubt, stick to the basics; practice scales, use a metronome and above all listen to great musicians. Take whatever inspiration you can get and ride the wave until you can catch the next wave. The bottom line is to make music a habit.
AFM: Have you seen any benefits as a result of being a BOOV winner?
SD: Yes, there is no doubt that having the distinction of being a Best of Our Valley winner helps when we are booking weddings, private parties and corporate events as the clients are sometimes unfamiliar with or booking local musical groups for the first time. Being able to show that we are “Best of” adds an extra unbiased layer of legitimacy to our credentials.
AFM: How do you put your “best” foot forward every day?
SD: We truly love what we do. It’s an absolute pleasure to be able to perform music for people across the Valley, whether they are music aficionados, newlyweds, seniors or people just looking to hear great music like they’ve never heard it before. Just knowing that we can bring something positive and beautiful into their lives makes it easy to go out and put our best foot forward.
Interested in participating or want to recommend a business, professional or individual for Best of Our Valley? Best of Our Valley 2019 is now accepting nominations. Click here to find out more!
