Chix With Stix

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Last updated 25 07 11

About Chix with Stix: 

There is a preconceived idea that girls can’t drum, but Chix with Stix have eliminated that thought from any skeptics mind forever. Initially attracting audiences purely out of fascination, Chix with Stix now has a solid fan base that is constantly growing. The band started in Feb 2004 and the members are Rikki Brest, Stefania Stefani, and Anastasia Ferrara and not only do these three girls aim to make a name for themselves in the music industry, but also to be respected for what they do. 

Their show appeals to a wide audience, allowing them to perform at all events including corporate events, festivals, clubs, launches, parties and schools since 2004. Their set includes drumming on traditional drum kit, Latin and African percussion, Djembes and even Chairs with singing added into a few songs. Although all three girls have different influences, they strive to create their own exclusive sound. What makes them unique? Well… besides the fact that they are all female, that they all drum and play all the instruments, the rhythms they create are thunderous. Chix with Stix add a new, fresh, sexy and energetic vibe to any function.

Artist Profiles: 

Rikki Brest 

Date of Birth: 13 May 1985 

Years playing: 12 years 

Influences: Virgil Donatti 

Biography: 

After scool I went to the Campus of Performing Arts where I studied Music performance and Sound Engineering. I studied some of the following subjects: Music Harmony, Music Theory, Drums Practical, Improvisation, Music Performance, Sound Engineering, Electronic Music, Keyboard Technique, Music Business. In 2005 I went to University of Johannesburg and got my BCom Marketing Degree. 

Dancing Experience: 

I have been dancing from the age of 5. I have done all styles such as modern, tap, ballet, hip hop, funk, afro fusion. 

In 2003 I got my practical modern dancing Teachers and in 2004 I qualified as a modern dance teacher.

Drumming Experience: 

I started playing drums at 13 years old after begging for a year to go to lessons and then playing on boxes for a year. I was taught by Alex Schuster for 5 years. I also took drums as a 7th subject in high school and got my N3 matric certificate in drums. I was taught by Marcio de Brito and Larry Rose at school. After school I spent a year at COPA (Campus of performing arts) studying sound engineering and music performance with drums as my major. I got my N4 through Garth Farrant. I have now been playing for 112years. Throughout the years I have played for various bands and performed on many stages. I played for IcarusFall for 3 years, toured and played for Evolver for 8 months opening for Prime Circle and The Parlotones. I currently also play for an all girl band called Saving Insanity. I also teach students privately from my home studio. 

Stefania Stefani 

Date of Birth: 4 January 1985 

Years playing: 9 years 

Influences: Brad Hargreaves -Third Eye Blind 

Dave Grohl – Foo Fighters 

Biography: 

At the age of 12 Stefania was chosen to be trained in Italy under the guidance of Wilma Vernocchi, a renowned opera singer. She has studied through The Trinity College of London , The National School of the Arts and Performing Arts Campus. She has received various awards for her vocals and song writing and has qualifications in Sound Engineering, contemporary and classical vocals (Grd 8 with distinction), piano and keyboard, drumming and Early Childhood Development naming a few subjects. Stefania continues to surround herself with music and the arts. She is currently the lead vocalist for ‘Mirror’, Producer and Session Artist for Shade Studios Record Label, Managing Director of Similar Song.com, a website dedicated to music and founder of ‘A Musical Experience Studios’ where beginners are taught musical instruments and theory.

Anastasia Ferrara 

Date of Birth: 31 March 1985 

Years playing: 10 

Influences: 

Soul fly inspired me to start playing drums. 

Music styles that influence me are Drum and bass, electronic, rock and fusion styles. 

Biography: 

Qualified sound engineer through ‘In House Audio’ (UK) 

Owner, Studio Engineer and Producer of ‘2InTwine Audio and Visual Productions’ specializing in picture sound design and music production. Anastasia received her international higher diploma in music performance and Music Business from ACM Music College Guilford (UK) National Diploma N6 and Advanced Level NQF5 in music performance and music business. Anastasia plays not only the drums and percussion, but also does lead vocals and plays bass guitar for the band ANEVA. She also plays Guitar and Keyboards. 

Media Reviews: 

FROM THE PRESS: 

”they came together to create Chix with Stix, a local girl band with a difference –

they beat the hell out of drums! “ …Lovelife 

”Sexy, sensational and talented all girl percussion and drum group” ….SA drummer 

“”and not only do they drum (an activity normally associated with Zulu worriers and guys)

but the rythms created by these ‘chix’ are nothing short of thunderous.”” …. Hands on Promotions 

“”Killer show…you chix ROCK!””….Hagen Engler – FHM 

Review from Woodstock 9 <our review> 

Zoopy “Girl power! These youngsters can give any male drummer a run for his money! You go girls!” 

WRITE UPS: 

FHM 50 hottest dates 

Alberton newspaper 

Article in Lovelife, 

Saturday Star 

“Get it” magazine 

Article in SADrummer 

Article in Locally whipped magazine 

People Magazine 

Gareth Cliff Talk Show 

The Star Tonight, Midrand Reporter.