A New Chapter for “Stepping Stones”

When I first wrote “Stepping Stones,” I imagined it as a piano-driven anthem about growth, one small victory at a time. But in revisiting the piece, I felt it needed a fresh voice—something raw, warm, and intimate. That’s where Deo came in. From our very first rehearsal, his fingers danced over the fretboard with such emotion that I knew we were onto something special.

Collaborating with Deo Budnevich

Deo’s background in jazz fusion and classical fingerstyle brought unexpected colors to the track. He suggested a cascading arpeggio for the intro that instantly set a different mood: reflective yet hopeful. As we recorded in the studio, I watched him coax new harmonics and subtle bends from his guitar, weaving them into the melody I’d grown so familiar with. The result is a version of “Stepping Stones” that feels both comfortingly familiar and thrillingly new.

Thanks to Young Musicians Unite

None of this would have happened without the support of Young Musicians Unite. Their mission to connect budding artists with top-tier talent is what made this collaboration possible. I’m so grateful they introduced me to Deo—and for championing creative partnerships that push us all to grow.

Why the Guitar Version Matters

• New Perspective: Stripping away other instruments exposes the song’s core melody and lyrics in a fresh light.
• Intimacy: The guitar’s organic tone creates a one-on-one connection—like singing beside a friend around a campfire.
• Versatility: Whether you’re listening on headphones, in the car, or at a small gig, the guitar version travels beautifully and adapts to any setting.

Listen and Share

You can listen to “Stepping Stones (Guitar Version)” right now on:

• Spotify
• Apple Music
• Amazon Music
• YouTube Music
• And wherever you get your tunes!

Click, stream, and if you love it, share it with a friend who needs a little musical encouragement today. Every play, playlist add, and share helps an independent artist like me keep creating—and I appreciate your support more than words can say.

What’s Next?

I’m already dreaming up new arrangements and writing fresh material. If you enjoyed the guitar take on “Stepping Stones,” stay tuned for:

• A live acoustic session (date TBA!)
• Behind-the-scenes recording clips on my Instagram and TikTok
• A possible ukulele version—because why not stack more stepping stones?

Thank you for joining me on this journey—from the first piano sketch to the award-winning competition performance and now to the guitar release. Here’s to every small step, every new version, and the music that carries us forward. 🎸✨

Discovering the First Stone

I first scribbled the title “Stepping Stones” in my notebook last Summer in Italy. At the time, I was thinking about all the little moments that lead us forward—learning a new chord, perfecting a rhythm, even overcoming stage fright. I wanted a song that felt like each small victory stacked on the next, until you realize how far you’ve come.

One evening after guitar practice at Wynwood School of Music, I sat at the piano and started experimenting with a simple four-note motif that echoed the feeling of taking one deliberate step. The melody felt hopeful but grounded, and I knew it was the seed of something special.

Building the Path: Writing & Refining

Once I had that intro motif, the real work began. Between capoeira, ice-skating lessons, and school projects, I carved out time each day to flesh out the verses and chorus:

• Verse 1 captured the uncertainty of starting something new.
• Pre-chorus built tension with a rising harmonic pattern.
• Chorus burst open with a bright, confident melody—my musical “I did it!” moment.

I recorded rough demos on my phone and shared them with my music teacher, who suggested adding a bridge that shifted from minor to major—a musical reminder that struggles can turn into triumph. That change became the emotional heart of “Stepping Stones.”

Taking Feedback, Gaining Confidence

Even with the bridge in place, I wondered if it truly connected. So I “busked” a stripped-down version at our local library’s Saturday open-mic. My hands trembled at first, but as I played the chorus, strangers in the audience nodded along and one kind listener said, “That bridge gives me goosebumps—it feels like hope breaking through.” Their encouragement cemented my belief: this song belonged on the YTBD stage.

Facing the Finals

On the day of the finals, backstage felt like a mix of nerves and excitement. All around me were talented teens—powerful vocalists, guitar virtuosos, even a few classical composers. I reminded myself that “Stepping Stones” wasn’t about being the best, but about sharing my story.

When it was my turn, I took a deep breath, closed my eyes at the first piano note, and let the music carry me. I felt every challenge I’d overcome—every practice session, every bit of feedback, every small step—flow through each bar.

Hearing My Name & What’s Next

When they announced “Stepping Stones” as the winning composition, time seemed to slow. I looked out and saw my parents cheering, my family, wiping happy tears, and friends jumping up and down. In that moment, I realized the song had done exactly what I’d hoped: connected hearts and celebrated growth.

Winning YTBD 2025 is a milestone—but it’s also a reminder that progress is made one stone at a time. Already, I’m arranging “Stepping Stones” for a string quartet and sketching ideas for my next piece, inspired by new experiences.

If you’re reading this with a melody in your mind or words waiting to be sung, remember: every small step matters. Keep stacking those stepping stones, and you’ll be amazed at where they lead.