Sigrid Sibley is a lady who got things figured out early.

Sibley, now 23, was just a kid when she stood in awe watching a band play at the Common Ground Fair in Unity. It was a moment like you read about — the kind of moment that can shape a person’s young life in a whoosh of inspiration. That’s how it went for Sibley, a University of Southern Maine grad from Poland who just released her first album with the very band that inspired her all those years ago.

It’s the kind of twist we love, but Sibley tells the story much better than we do, so we’re going to let her do just that.

How and when did you get into music to begin with? It’s a funny story — I was actually inspired by the current band I play in. When I was 11, I saw a previous version of Flight 317 perform at Common Ground Fair. They sang and played bluegrass and folk music. It was a “eureka” moment for me. I knew immediately that I wanted to sing and perform. I started playing guitar, took lessons at 317 Main Community Music Center (in Yarmouth), and eventually picked up mandolin. After a few years I was able to join Flight 317, the same ensemble that inspired me to start playing.

Can you tell us about your band? The current members are Terra Gallo on fiddle, Adriana Whitlock on bass, Emi Schneider on guitar, and myself on mandolin. In 2016, the four of us joined Flight 317, a student ensemble at 317 Main Community Music Center. Flight 317 was founded 15 years ago by musician and teacher Carter Logan, and the makeup of the group rotates as musicians graduate. We loved the lineup so much that we kept playing together after graduation. Our band leader, Carter, continues to join us on dobro and banjo. He is a fantastic musician and teacher. When we released the album, we shortened the band name to “Flight” to differentiate from the student ensemble.

What was the process of cutting an album like? There are eight songs on “Next Wednesday.” All the songs were recorded live at Acadia Recording Studio in Portland. Each of the songs features a different aspect of the band. The album spans several different genres, including bluegrass, folk, pop, and one rock ‘n’ roll tune! Our producer and engineer, Jason Phelps, is a great musician and a whiz in the studio. He brought out the best in our music and we are so thankful to have worked with him during the recording process. “Next Wednesday” is available to stream on all major platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music. The album can be purchased at 317 Main Community Music Center or contact us at flight317band@gmail.com and we will send one your way!

What or how many instruments do you play? I perform on mandolin and guitar, although I enjoy playing a number of instruments. I also love to sing. All members of the band sing, which makes for great harmony.

What’s next for you? Flight is planning an album release concert this summer at Lenny’s Pub in Westbrook. Check our Facebook page (@Flight) for upcoming details.

Is there anything completely non-musical you enjoy doing? I love to be outdoors — and Maine is a great place to do that. The cross-country skiing season ended early, so I’ve been hiking and preparing my summer garden. I also read a lot of historical fiction and bake bread.

Where can our readers find out more about you? I write a monthly newsletter with info about upcoming shows and projects. The signup form is on my Facebook page (@sigridsibleymusic). It’s always great to meet people and connect in person at shows.

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