SPOTLIGHT INTERVIEW WITH MARIA KRAMER
SOUTHERN GOSPEL SPOTLIGHT PRESENTS:
AN INTERVIEW WITH MARIA KRAMER OF THE KRAMERS
MARIA KRAMER IS A BRIGHT YOUNG TALENT AND IS SURE TO TAKE THE SOUTHERN GOSPEL MUSIC SCENE BY STORM. THIS MUSICALLY GIFTED 19 YEAR OLD JOINED HER PARENTS IN FULL-TIME MINISTRY IN 2013. SHE IS A VERSATILE ARTIST PLAYING FIVE DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTS AS WELL AS SINGING SEVERAL STYLES BESIDES SOUTHERN GOSPEL. HER BEAUTIFUL ALTO VOICE THAT ADDS A POWERFUL DYNAMIC TO THE TRIO. JUST LISTENING TO THEIR DEBUT TRIO CD, I CAN TELL THAT MARIA KRAMER HAS A TRUE HEART FOR CHRIST AND OTHER PEOPLE. I WAS RECENTLY ABLE TO INTERVIEW MARIA VIA FACEBOOK. ALSO, LOOK FOR MY UPCOMING ARTICLE ON THE GROUP IN MAY'S ISSUE OF SGN SCOOPS.
WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, HERE IS THE INTERVIEW:
Justin Gilmore: Hello Maria! Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to do this. So, how did you get your start in Southern Gospel music?
Maria Kramer: My start in Gospel music is unique and different from others. My parents founded a music ministry, “Hands of Love Ministry” in 1998 and went full-time in 2000. In 2001, my younger brother was diagnosed with autism and my parents had to come off the road and minister closer to home. They led worship at our home church for twelve years as I grew up in public school. When I was 16, after sophomore year of high school, I felt The LORD calling me to join my parents in full-time music. Much like Peter stepping out of the boat and following Jesus, I felt uncertain how I would be able to walk on water without sinking. But, The LORD is so faithful and it has been a rich journey with Him.
Gilmore: What a great start to an already successful ministry! Who are your musical influences?
Kramer: Kim Hopper is one of my biggest musical influences. Such a strong singer with a heart for ministry. Both of my parents have also been huge musical influences in my life. I admire them so much!
Gilmore: Awesome! Who is your favorite singer in general?
Kramer: Too many to choose just one! I love the voices of Sonya Isaacs, Emmet Cahill (former singer with Celtic Thunder), Karen Peck… I could go on and on!
Gilmore: Three of my favorites as well! Who are your favorite groups? Past or present
Kramer: Hard question. I really love Triumphant Quartet and The Hoppers. I am so ministered to by them; not only their outstanding talent but also by their beautiful hearts for The LORD.
Gilmore: Two incredible groups!! What has been the best part of traveling with your family?
Kramer: Seeing lives changed by the Gospel. There’s truly nothing more rewarding than knowing that people have been moved to accept Jesus because of our testimonies and/or music. We give all the glory to God knowing that it would not be possible in our own strength.
Gilmore: That is what this music is all about! I love hearing that this music is impacting so many lives and bringing them to Christ. Speaking of this great music, What is your favorite song to sing?
Kramer: In concert, my favorite song to sing is “I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary”. It’s a powerful proclamation of what we, as believers, believe and what we will stand on until Jesus returns or takes us home. The song is a testament of what The LORD has done in our lives, how He has changed us completely and made us alive in Him. I can speak on behalf of my parents as well and say that we are all greatly moved when sharing this song.
Gilmore: That is one of my favorite songs of all time!! Love hearing the GVB sing it and loved your version. What is your favorite Scripture verse?
Kramer: I have so many favorites. My life verse for this year is Acts 20:24 which says “However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me – the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.”
Gilmore: Great word! What is something that people might not know about you?
Kramer: I’m left-handed! 87-92% of the world is right-handed, so I’m in the minority.
Gilmore: Wow! That’s cool! What is the most memorable experience you’ve had in your years of singing Gospel music?
Kramer: My most memorable experience so far would be helping lead worship for tours to Israel. There’s nothing more moving than singing “My Jesus I Love Thee” in the pit where Jesus was held the night before He was crucified. I will hold it in my heart forever!
Gilmore: Awesome! I would love to visit Israel! Tell me about your involvement in charity work and outreach groups.
Kramer: When I was in 8th grade, I was involved in a service club and we fed the homeless. It was a very moving a humbling experience. Growing up, I’ve also been involved in my church youth group and Bible studies in my community. It’s so important to have fellowship with the body of Christ!
Gilmore: Great! Any advice for aspiring Gospel artists?
Kramer: “Commit to The LORD whatever you do, and He will establish your plans.” (Proverbs 16:3) Put The LORD before you in all that you do and keep Him the center of your focus. And remember, it’s an audience of One. All for His glory!
Gilmore: Great advice! What can fans expect from the group this year?
Kramer: We have a very busy schedule this year and will be touring all over the U.S. and Canada! We will be at Gaither Fall Festival and the National Quartet Convention in September as well. We look forward to seeing many friends and also meeting new friends this year!
Gilmore: Looking forward to what God has in store for you! Thanks so much for your time! God Bless!
Kramer: Thanks so much, Justin. Really appreciate it!!
FOR MORE ON MARIA AND THE KRAMERS: VISIT: www.thekramersmusic.com