Welcome to the debut of our “12-Question Quest” interview series, where we reconnect with past recipients of the Jersey Shore Jazz & Blues Foundation music scholarships. These interviews explore how music continues to shape their lives.
Our first scholarship recipient interview is Andrew Ahlborn. Andrew received the JSJBF scholarship in 2019. He is a Middletown native and multi-instrumentalist who has blended engineering and performance into a life filled with music.
The 12-Question Quest
Interviewer Joseph Vincent Riggio
Andrew Ahlborn was a graduate of Middletown High School South class of 2019 and University of Delaware class of 2023.
J. Riggio: Where are you currently living?
A. Ahlborn: Middletown, NJ
J. Riggio: What have you been up to since you received the scholarship?
A. Ahlborn: Graduated with a bachelor’s degree in construction engineering and management, and a master’s in civil engineering. I have been working as a construction manager for the last year. While in school, I participated in the UDMB (University of Delaware Marching Band) for 5 years, UD Pep Band for 3 years, and UD Collegiate Concert Band for 3 years.
J. Riggio: What inspired you to pursue music in the first place?
A. Ahlborn: Originally, I was drawn to Rock Band 2 as a child. I took to the drums soon after and started to get lessons after discovering my enjoyment for music.
J. Riggio: Who are your current musical role models or mentors, and why?
A. Ahlborn: I always look to the people I am performing with as a guide to my musical endeavors. Belonging to various groups heightens the sense of community that you can have outside of performing. And playing with better people than you will make you a much better musician.
J. Riggio: How have your goals or aspirations evolved since you received the award?
A. Ahlborn: I knew after going to college that a working musician was not a sustainable life for me. But this does not mean I can’t be a musician and have a separate career. I am looking to keep working on various original projects, break into the cover band scene, and play as many live shows as possible.
J. Riggio: Can you share a memorable experience or achievement you’ve had in music since receiving the scholarship?
A. Ahlborn: My 2 wildest musical experiences occurred when I was at the University of Delaware. I marched in a lockdown inauguration parade for President Joe Biden in 2021 (read the JSJBF article here) and played for the NCAA March Madness tournament in 2022.
J. Riggio: Can you describe a recent project, performance, or collaboration that was especially meaningful to you?
A. Ahlborn: Recently, I joined a local Asbury Park Band, Loveseat Pete, and it means a lot to play with them. I was always friendly with the group and had connections through Middletown and my high school band. In past years, I always looked up to them for their creative expertise, and I am thankful that I now get to make awesome music with them.
In the last 2 months, I was able to partake in a reunion show for the Rock’ N’ Music Academy in Middletown, NJ. The chance to play with old high school friends was amazing and has planted a seed to start an adult version of our past cover bands.
J. Riggio: How do you balance music with other aspects of your life now?
A. Ahlborn: The only real answer is running a tight schedule and making time for music. Life gets busy and is chaotic; remember the things that bring you happiness and do them often.
J. Riggio: How do you plan to use your music to benefit society or inspire others?
A. Ahlborn: I enjoy live performance the most, so if I can bring a single person happiness while watching a set, then I did my job.
J. Riggio: Are there any current or upcoming projects or goals you’re excited about?
A. Ahlborn: I am looking forward to writing more original music with Loveseat Pete and sharing that creative process with them. Also, after our recent reunion show, a new cover band is in the works with an attempt to break into the trademarked Jersey Shore cover scene.
J. Riggio: What advice would you give to younger musicians?
A. Ahlborn: The more musicians and the more types of musicians you play and surround yourself with, the better. Everyone has different expertise, and something you can learn from.
J. Riggio: Where do you see yourself in the next five years, musically and personally?
A. Ahlborn: In the next 5 years, I am planning for continued success with the original bands, and am hoping a solid cover band can gain some traction to play gigs along the Jersey Shore.