Interview: Kira Fontana
In our latest interview, Singer-Songwriter Kira Fontana talks to Louder Than The Music about her new single 'Refuge', her new album due early next year, and her thoughts on making music to encourage others.
For those who haven't heard of you before, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in making music?
I’ve been in music most of my life, starting with classical piano and songwriting as a child. Later on I studied classical and orchestral composition in college, then did singing, songwriting and film scoring in Los Angeles. In 2016, I had a radical conversion to Christianity, and this is my first worship album.
Tell us about your new single 'Refuge' and what the inspiration behind it was?
'Refuge’ is a spiritual warfare anthem, about finding refuge in God -- no matter what is going on around us. Inspired by Psalm 91, it was written during one of the darkest times in my life after a radical conversion to Christianity. I hadn't been inspired to write music or sing in many years, and I remember praying one night in desperation, "God, why did you even make me?" That same night, I woke up from a dream at 3 am with a new song flashing through my head. I immediately went to the piano, and recorded the chorus to "Refuge.” That song was God's answer to my prayer, and the beginning of my new life as a worshipper. He has given me so many new worship songs since then, and ‘Refuge’ holds a very special place in my heart.
You have an album coming next year, what more can you tell us about that?
My upcoming album is also entitled ‘Refuge', produced by myself and Grammy-winner Josh "igloo" Monroy. The album is a set of spiritual warfare songs, declaring God’s victory over the battles in our lives. It is also a testimony of my coming to faith, about finding refuge in God in every circumstance, and discovering the true freedom that comes through abiding in Jesus. The album will be released in early 2021 on Kingdom Sound.
What message would you like people to take from your music?
I hope people find hope and encouragement in my music. God is our strength and our refuge, at all times and in all situations. He is so good, He is so faithful, and He loves us more than we can possibly imagine! When we draw near to Him, He will draw near to us.
How would you describe your style of music and what are your influences?
I have a background as a classical composer as well as songwriter, so I think you hear that symphonic element in my music. In a sense, the songs begin very intimate… with just me at the piano, but once the orchestra comes in they become very epic.
How would you define success in your career as an artist?
Glorifying God and pointing people to Him. If this music can play a part in inspiring others to seek God and draw closer to Him, I would see that as a huge blessing and success.
What is your favorite album of all time?
Oh… that’s a tough question! I can’t pick just one because I love so much music, but an album that’s had a huge impact would be “Te Deum” by Estonian composer Arvo Pärt. So deep and powerful!
You're stuck on an island, it's hot, you only have enough battery life left to listen to one song on your phone. What track is it?
I’ve been loving “Refiner” by Maverick City music lately… so I’ll go with that :)
What does the next year hold for you?
While only God knows, I plan on finishing up several new songs, recording and releasing more worship music… and look forward to the journey!
