Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhea Makiaris
Hi Rhea, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Music has always been my passion—I’ve ALWAYS wanted to do music. For years, I fit it around my career as an American Sign Language interpreter, which I am also deeply passionate about, believing it would be too difficult to make a living solely as a musician.
But in 2020, everything changed. When the world shut down, I found myself unemployed, uncertain, and searching for purpose.
Instead of letting fear take over, I took action. I launched Makiaris Music Mondays, a live-streamed concert series to stay connected with family, friends, and fans. What started as a way to share joy became a lifeline—through the generosity of my viewers, I was able to pay my rent from those donations. That experience showed me that music wasn’t just something I loved; it was something I could truly build a life around.
Determined to fully embrace this path, I made big changes. I moved to a place where I could be closer to nature, explored platforms like Patreon to create sustainable income, and developed new skills in music production. I also leaned into collaboration, sharing the stage with incredible artists and dreaming up ways to bring people together through music—like reviving the spirit of classic variety shows. I absolutely love featuring other talented musicians.
More than anything, I realized the power of music to create connection and impact. That’s why I founded Concert For Your Cause (CFYC)—to use music as a force for good, bringing communities together while raising funds for causes that matter. But CFYC is about more than just supporting nonprofits and charities. We are equally committed to uplifting local artists, ensuring they are valued and paid for their artistry. Through events like our Spotlight Series in Cardiff-by-the-Sea—returning this April, May, and June—we create opportunities for local musicians to shine while fostering a culture of appreciation and support for live music.
I’ve learned that we all have an internal voice telling us to be scared, to play it safe. But I knew that voice wasn’t real. In the face of uncertainty, I chose to take action. And in doing so, I not only transformed my own life—I found a way to make a difference through music.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of the biggest struggles has been overcoming self-doubt. That inner voice—the one that says to play it safe, that making a living through music and creative projects isn’t realistic—was loud at times. But I had to push past it, trust in my passion, and believe that if I showed up, worked hard, and stayed open to new opportunities, things would fall into place.
Financially, there were real challenges. I had to get creative, finding new ways to connect with audiences and sustain myself. That meant not only pursuing music but also continuing my interpreting work, which has given me the flexibility to build my vision without the pressure of it being my sole source of income. It was humbling, but also empowering to realize that I didn’t have to wait for someone else to open doors for me—I could build my own.
I’ve also had moments of doubt where I felt unsure about how to bring my vision to life. But what I’ve learned, time and time again, is that I don’t have to have all the answers—I have a community. When I share my ideas and connect with others, solutions reveal themselves. The resources I need are in the people around me, and that has been one of the most powerful lessons of this journey.
Building Concert For Your Cause (CFYC) has had its challenges, too. Starting something from scratch—securing sponsors, organizing events, and getting people to believe in a vision that doesn’t exist yet—isn’t easy. But every challenge has reinforced why I do this. Music has the power to heal, to unite, and to create real change. So even when the road is tough, I remind myself: the mission is always bigger than the obstacles.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At my core, I am a musician, a storyteller, and a community builder. Music has always been my passion, but what truly drives me is its ability to bring people together, heal, and inspire. I specialize in powerful, heartfelt performances—whether it’s classic oldies, pop standards, or original music, my goal is always to create an experience that deeply connects with the audience.
Beyond performing, I founded Concert For Your Cause (CFYC), an organization that merges music with philanthropy. We partner with nonprofits and charities to create concerts that raise funds, awareness, and community support for important causes. CFYC was born from the belief that music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a force for change.
One of the things I’m most proud of is seeing the impact of this work. In just a few concerts, we’ve raised over $30,000, helping organizations thrive while giving artists meaningful opportunities to use their talents for something bigger than themselves. That feeling—knowing that music is making a difference—is indescribable.
What sets me apart is my voice. Time and time again, I hear people say that my voice stops them in their tracks. There’s something about the tone, the emotion, and the way I interpret a song that resonates deeply. Whether I’m singing for an intimate crowd or a packed venue, I strive to create a moment—one that people feel in their hearts long after the song ends.
But beyond my voice, I think what truly makes me different is my ability to blend music with mission. I don’t just perform; I create experiences that move people—whether it’s a live show, an online concert, or an event designed to uplift a community. I also bring a unique perspective as a former American Sign Language interpreter, always thinking about inclusivity and how to make music more accessible.
At the end of the day, my work is about connection. Whether it’s through a song, a fundraiser, or a shared moment in a performance, I want people to feel seen, inspired, and part of something greater. That’s what drives everything I do.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
The music industry is evolving rapidly, and over the next 5-10 years, I see independent artists continuing to rise. With streaming, digital platforms, and direct-to-fan engagement, musicians have more control than ever. People are also craving deeper, purpose-driven experiences—music that heals, connects, and inspires. That’s exactly what I focus on with Concert For Your Cause (CFYC).
I’m also passionate about recording and producing, especially creating opportunities for women and marginalized artists to have their voices heard. The industry still has a long way to go in terms of equity, and I want to be part of that change—helping others tell their stories and build sustainable careers.
Music’s role in wellness will continue to grow, and I believe in merging art with impact. Whether through live events, community-building, or empowering artists behind the scenes, I see the future of music as a space where creativity and purpose come together to make a real difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.concertforyourcause.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concert.for.your.cause/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhea.makiaris
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/rocknrhea
- Other: https://heyrhea.com
Image Credits
Mandi Stillwell
Andy King Photography
