Meet Anthony Trusso | Maestro (DJ)

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anthony Trusso and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anthony, what do you want people to remember about you?
I think at the very least, I’d like to leave behind a system that’s better than the one I found. I recall the early days, and there really wasn’t much structure, or standards. Everything was kind of at the mercy of the specific venue’s old policies, managers, owners, promoters, etc. There was no minimum compensation for entertainment, DJ’s in particular. There was kind of a “bucket of crabs” scenario going on here, where almost anywhere progress on that was made, it didn’t last long. I’d like to think that what I’ve left behind is a setting where things continue to grow fairly. Specifically for those who really put in the time and effort to hone their skills, and that those people are rewarded for that. To me just leaving that mindset for the next group that experience and skill DOES matter is what’s important.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What sets me apart is actually what makes all of the artists I work with similar honestly. The old ways of getting to know the artists who are where you want to be, the venues they’re at, and putting in the work to get there is kind of becoming a rarity. Being an Artist and a manager for one of those venues is definitely a balancing act as well. I would have to say that both have helped me grow in different ways and contributed to each others growth respectively. I’m definitely one of those “learn the hard way” people (fortunately or unfortunately depending on the day), but I think over all the hard lessons stick. I’ve made some good decisions, I couldn’t have gotten to where I am if I hadn’t, but I’ve made a lot of mistakes too. I think those mistakes however, were just as important. If you’re interested in this business, it’s something you should be aware of. There is no perfect path, you’re absolutely not going to make the right call all of the time. That said, focus on those moments too, and do your best to learn from them moving forward.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As far as tourist/visitor spots go it would all depend on the visitor. Sporting events, museums, the rock hall, comedy clubs, etc., there’s so much to check out. The food and drink I can definitely handle. Dinner depends on the cuisine. Steakhouses I have to go Red or Marble Room. Italian is Lago or Luca on the viaduct 11/10 times. If seafood is the move, Blue Point or Acqua Di Luca are a must. Sushi, I would have to go Sora or Ginko, for the Cleveland area it doesn’t get any better. If we’re looking for something a little more sleek, Lago is also an excellent hangout that has DJ’s post dinner, a classier “loungey” vibe. If we’re looking more to the nightclub side post dinner/drinks, we’d have to hit the Warehouse district (insert Ivy plug here…) or the flats. Gateway district/East 4th has some great bar/restaurants if that’s more their speed as well!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s too many to count but I’ll do my best! I’d have to start with the guys and the venues that gave me a chance in the beginning. Definitely gave me the motivation to take this seriously, and grow to the demands and what people have come to expect on a night out. On the management side, I’d have to thank The Ivy in downtown Cleveland for giving me the opportunity to fill this role. I’ve gotten to work with the best local talent, as well as amazing agencies and agents. They’ve helped me build relationships with some of the best entertainers in the country, and for that, I am definitely grateful!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mixedbymaestro/

Image Credits
Will Lindsay – @vividcle