The Forest Hills Times Welcomes New Music Section with Local Musical Historian
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by MOHAMED FARGHALY | mfarghaly@queensledger.com
Daniel Olson, a longtime Forest Hills resident and music enthusiast, is launching a weekly music section in the Forest Hills Times to spotlight local talent and events.
Daniel Olson, a longtime Forest Hills resident and even longer local music historian, is bringing a new rhythm to Forest Hills with the announcement of a weekly music section in the Forest Hills Times.
Olson’s deep connection to the music industry and passion for supporting local talent make him a credible and exciting addition to the publication.
Olson’s journey in the music world began in high school and college, where he played professionally with various bands. Although he eventually chose a career in banking, Olson never strayed far from his musical roots. He currently plays bass guitar and piano at the Church-in-the-Gardens and has performed with bands such as the Killer Dollo Band. His extensive involvement in the local music scene includes serving as treasurer and board member for the Queens Symphony Orchestra and Random Access Music, as well as volunteering as a reviewer with Flushing Town Hall and the Queens Council on the Arts.
For over a decade, Olson was the president and treasurer of Musica Reginae Productions, an organization dedicated to promoting music in Queens. His advocacy for local music is driven by a desire to support musicians who often struggle to find audiences.
“My heart is with the musicians of this world who play professionally or try to make a career out of it,” Olson said. “They need to find an audience, because those are the people who pay the bills. With a little bit of energy and publicity, we could help those forces come together into something solid, like higher attendance for concerts and support for local musicians here in Forest Hills.”
With a rich background in both performing and supporting music, Olson aims to enhance the community’s cultural landscape and support local musicians by providing a dedicated platform for their work.
Olson’s vision extends beyond just Forest Hills. He has been involved with Queens Rising, a promotion of all arts and performers in Queens, and has lived with the musical heritage of Forest Hills, from Al Jonsin to the Ramones and Burt Bacharach. He believes in the importance of supporting local musicians and providing venues for them to perform.
“It’s a good place for musicians to live,” he said, noting the easy commute and supportive community. “Here in Forest Hills, we have a lot of musicians and musical groups, and that heritage goes back a long way.”
The new weekly music section in the Forest Hills Times aims to highlight local music events and performances, providing a platform for musicians and enriching the cultural landscape of the area. Olson’s extensive network and keen eye for talent ensure that readers will be well-informed about the best musical acts around them.
“I think there are a lot of musicians that could be part of this,” Olson said. “It helps local commerce, it helps the feeling of community and connection. People are going to see what some of the really great music and performances that Forest Hills can offer.”
The introduction of this new section is a testament to Olson’s dedication to fostering a vibrant local music scene.
“The quality of live music is so different from even the best stereo system or television, there are psychological benefits,” Olson said. “It’s good for the dopamine. You’re going to have a good time. You’re going to hear music presented in a live situation. The quality of live music is so different and better. There’s been some studies showing the benefits of being with other people in a social setting. It’s like the third place, contributing to the feeling of place in a neighborhood.”
Forest Hills residents can look forward to a richer, more connected community as they discover and support local musical talents through Olson’s initiative.
“Forest Hills with no music or arts would just be another bedroom duplicate,” Olson said. “Music and arts contribute significantly to the character and vitality of the neighborhood.
