The Australian-born, Charlottesville-raised Mariana Bell began singing at age 6. So, after a rather unfortunate turn at the violin at a concert in Yogaville, a year or so of flute, and ten years of piano, she settled on the guitar as the primary portable accompaniment to her voice (though her father still won't give up his sweet '78 Martin D28). The alto in a little choir sang at the National Cathedral (that's in Washington, D.C.) and the White House (so is that) whilst developing her alter-ego as a folksinger/songwriter. She found her way on stage, singing backups or playing set breaks of friends' bands until finally she came to New York. While under the pretense of "Going To College" Mariana performed all over the city, at such venerable locales as Caffe Vivaldi, The Bitter End, CBGB's and The Living Room among others. Nurturing her penchant for rollicking good times and traditional folk tunes, she has played with an Irish band, Doc and the Hods, at the now-defunct but famed Bottom Line and many an Irish bar about town. She also sings backup vocals for various bands in need of some sweet harmony. With the acquisition of a vintage electric guitar, she is branching out and often plays her own style of melodious rock with a band of merry men (and sometimes women) who think her tunes are cool. She composes for theater and film as well. She's been likened to Joni Mitchell, Fiona Apple and Ani DiFranco. Her performances are filled with intriguing rhythms, passionate vocal clarity and unashamed, entertaining banter. If it's nice out, you can sometimes find her and a guitar in the park.