10 Questions with ... Gabriella D'Agostino

BRIEF CAREER SYNOPSIS:

KMBY/Monterey, CA MD/middays; WHRL/Albany, NY APD/middays; Capitol Records (Astralwerks, Virgin, Capitol, EMI) College + Specialty Promotions Manager; Glassnote Records Head of Radio Promotion; WMKK/Boston Promotion Director & Music Coordinator, and Music Choice Sr. Programmer, Music Programming.

1. Congrats on your new gig! What led you to Music Choice?

I've wanted to return to NYC but nothing was leading me here until I saw that Music Choice was looking for an Alternative Programmer. From the people I've interacted with in the past here, to the continuous impact they've been making on the music community, I knew that Music Choice was a good place to be. So, I threw my name in the ring and hoped for the best... which of course was getting back to true programming in a format that I love.

2. What should everyone know about Music Choice?

Music Choice has 46 music channels, a Video On Demand platform and a full blow out TV network called SWRV. Pretty impressive, I'd say. It is also a very down to earth atmosphere with extremely hard workers who are passionate about being at Music Choice. It's a very welcoming new home.

3. What may surprise people the most about the company?

Their dedication to give back to the community.

4. What are the hottest songs right now on the Alternative channel?

The Kooks - Junk of the Heart, Bright Eyes - Jejune Stars, Givers - Up Up Up, Jane's Addiction - End Of The Lies

The Kooks are still "new" to some but those who've loved their past records are enjoying the fresh sound they've got on "Junk of the Heart." Bright Eyes have such a dedicated and broad fan base and never cease to deliver great talent in their tracks. They are the ideal element of alternative music. Jane's Addiction -- just those two words explains most of its success. Being such a staple band in the world of alternative music, it's a well overdue album for those of us who've been waiting.

5. What will be your biggest challenge?

Not being totally surrounded by Red Sox fans anymore. And on a serious work note, Music Choice is an amazing company to be a part of. What I need to do is make sure I can keep up that level of greatness in all of my channels and my role here as a programmer and team member.

6. What stands out the most from your first job in radio?

I just remember having a very "sparkled" view of this whacky industry and, it stuck with me. I still find it shiny... at times

7. How are you using social networking?

I use it for many things... to see what's going on in other parts of the world on a more personal level by communicating with pals all over. This is also beneficial for keeping tabs on new music or music that has yet to jump the pond. It doesn't hurt having friends in London who often let me know who I should be listening to next!

8. What excites you most about returning to New York?

I took a little sabbatical from this circus of a city & ventured over to Boston but, now it just feels like I'm home. And, I get to harass my brother on a daily basis now!

9. Fill in the blank: I can't make it through the day without _______?

My iPhone, of course!

10. What would surprise people most about you?

Once when I was little... I was sleep talking, if you will and acted out a scene from Peter Pan. Yes, it's true.

When you're away from work, what are you music listening habits to the radio, online, etc.?

However I can get my ears on music, I find it. But, just turn on Music Choice and go about your business!