St. Thomas the Apostle Youth Ministry at One Saint Thomas Plaza, Old Bridge, NJ 08857 US - Maggie Bolger-Living her Vocation

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Maggie Bolger, 21 years old “having great, exciting experiences in my life without a boyfriend.” musical inspirations her dad, Paul Simon, James Taylor, the Beatles, Ella Fitzgerald, the Carpenters, Joni Mitchell hobbies shopping at local thrift and vintage stores: “I much prefer finding one-of-a-kind clothes to department stores where they only have a few options.” musical style folk/rock Judd and Maggie, a brother-sister duo, released Subjects, their first album, on RCA Records in May. Critics praised the folk-acoustic album and the siblings’ earthy harmonies. As a Catholic, Maggie Bolger describes the challenges and joys of integrating her faith and family with her vocation. on musicianship as a vocation I always knew I would be a singer “when I grew up.” I didn’t know how this would become a real occupation, but I trusted that God put that desire in my heart and would open doors. Although I loved college, after my sophomore year, I felt I was supposed to move on to music. My life was not planned out in my mind, but I took a chance and trusted that the Holy Spirit would help me make the right decision. on family Although my parents didn’t make anyone play, all my siblings were drawn to the beauty of music, and it has been such a great bond for us. One day Judd was singing a song in our living room, and I started singing harmony. Our parents said our voices blended well together and that we should collaborate on music. We made a CD, sent it out to lots of clubs, and played everywhere we could. Soon after, we met our manager, played some showcases, and were offered a record deal. Everything worked so smoothly, and God helped us every step of the way. on secular and sacred music In many ways, our music fits right in with the secular market. We sing about relationships; that’s not too special, right? But we write about our relationships with people and with God. After all, God is a person, too! We’ve noticed that, though we’re not flashy pop stars, people are drawn to our music and our peace and confidence, a confidence that comes from knowing our value as God’s children. Our album is called Subjects, and the songs are about treating people as subjects rather than objects. An object is a thing to be used, and unfortunately, many people are treated that way. on music to evangelize John Paul II always encouraged young people to “set out into the deep” and “be not afraid.” That is what I want to do: to be Christ to others, not by preaching, but by example. We go into the world, into the less-than-reputable places that Christ went, and bring the love and hope that we have been blessed enough to learn about and experience. Our music brings us to bars and clubs, and we should not be afraid. We already know about Christ and that He is what everyone is searching for, deep down. on faith while touring When we’re touring, we try to find Catholic churches in the different cities we play and go to daily Mass as often as we can. Eucharistic adoration is also vital to maintaining peace in such a hectic—sometimes superficial—music business. It’s so counter-cultural! Everything is telling us we should be filling every moment with excitement, work, music, clothes, food, friends. These are good things, but we need to be still and composed for a time to balance our lives. The more we spend time with God, the more we will recognize our dependence and need to worship Him. on image in the music business Like most girls, I’ve struggled with my self-image. I wouldn’t attribute that to being in the music business or performing on a stage. It’s just the pressure I have absorbed from being in this image-obsessed culture. I don’t have it any harder than most girls who watch movies, see magazines, drive by billboards, or go shopping. We all need to come to terms with the impossible and false standards of what popular culture views as “beautiful” and learn what truly is beautiful. on modesty My typical gig outfit is stylish but modest. It usually includes cowboy boots, a pretty blouse (probably passed down from my grandma or from a thrift store), and a flouncy skirt. Although it can seem like only scantily-clad girls get attention, hold out for something better. That kind of attention is over in a moment and only leaves you needing more. on musical ambition First, work on your songs and instrument, staying true to your unique sound. Start playing gigs locally; no matter how many times you practice in your home, getting up on stage can be daunting. Be willing to work with those who are more experienced than you, but recognize what makes you different and stick to that quality of music. Find out more: www.juddandmaggie.com www.myspace.com/juddandmaggie

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