Singer-songwriter Kristy Chmura blends heartfelt lyricism with atmospheric acoustic sounds, rooted in a lifelong love of journaling, poetry, and music. What began as a creative outlet in her youth evolved into a full-fledged songwriting practice during her time studying music in college. Whether working solo or collaborating with her bandmates Damien Musto, Christian Eigner, and Niko Stoessl, Kristy uses music as a way to process the world around her, from personal growth to environmental activism. Her recent reimagining of “Wake Up,” inspired by the eerie skies over New Jersey during the Canadian wildfires, reflects both her artistic vision and her deep connection to nature. In addition to her musical work, Kristy serves as Vice Chair of Chatham’s Shade Tree Commission, where she’s been a passionate advocate for urban forestry for over a decade. Read below to find out more about Kristy’s songwriting journey, creative collaborations, and how her music and environmental work go hand in hand.