Brookdale Community College Alum Shines in Fine Arts and Music

Brookdale Community College has produced many successful alumni, and Andrew Agosta is no exception. Agosta’s journey from a music major to a fine arts enthusiast showcases the transformative power of education and the nurturing environment at Brookdale.

Reflecting on his time at Brookdale, Agosta recalls, “I started as a music major, but then I switched to fine arts. I learned more about the art community through drawing and painting, yet I still kept my passion for music alive.” This blend of disciplines has shaped Agosta’s unique career path, allowing him to integrate his love for art and music.

As a talented singer-songwriter, Agosta plays guitar, piano, and harmonica. His musical journey at Brookdale included participating in the music club, a rock band class, which performed at Asbury Park. He honed his skills taking classes with professors Doug Clarke. “Brookdale’s programs were fantastic. They offered me a platform to explore my interests and develop my talents,” Agosta shared.

Agosta’s transition to fine arts didn’t diminish his musical pursuits. Instead, it broadened his creative horizons. He became involved in creating music videos, the most notable being Step Into The Highway, a song he wrote during the COVID-19 pandemic in his final semester at Brookdale. The music video, shot in various locations including Asbury Park, East Brunswick, South Orange, and Red Bank, was a collaborative effort with his cousin Joseph Lanza and videographer Ben Danzi. One of his key inspirations is Joe Bonamassa, an American blues rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter who started his career at age twelve when he opened for B.B. King. Agosta mentioned he was honored to meet Bonamassa in Red Bank ten years ago.

Agosta took the Honorable Mention Award in the Homegrown Music Video category for Step Into The Highway at the 2024 Garden State Film Festival. This significant accolade recognizes local talent. “Winning the award was a supreme honor,” Agosta said. “The song is about driving, cruising around the streets, and thinking about the people you love. It’s a road trip anthem that came to life in my basement.” 

Beyond music, Agosta is also venturing into film. He is currently involved in a TV pilot titled “Olga,” a quirky tale about a woman’s self-esteem journey in 1980s New Jersey, produced by Written House Productions. “I’m a futured extra playing a high school wrestler and party guest,” Agosta explained. “The project starts shooting in August and I’m very excited to be part of it.” 

When asked about the advice he would give to current Brookdale students and recent graduates, Agosta emphasized persistence and hard work. “Stay with it. Work hard and keep doing what you love,” he advised. His motivation stems from his passion for music and the arts. “I stay motivated by writing music, performing at shows, and participating in film projects,” he added. 

Agosta’s artistic journey, marked by his achievements at the Garden State Film Festival and his ongoing projects, is a testament to the vibrant opportunities at Brookdale Community College. His story inspires aspiring artists and musicians, proving that with dedication and creativity, one can truly make their mark. 

For those interested in Agosta’s work, his music video Step Into The Highway can be found on his YouTube channel under his name, Andrew Agosta. 

Brookdale Community College continues to foster talent and provide a supportive environment for students to explore and excel in their passions. Agosta’s success is one of many stories highlighting this institution’s impact on its community and beyond. “I hope this will inspire other Brookdale students to pursue their goals,” Agosta said. 

Music video: Step Into The Highway

Link tree to Andrew Agosta’s social media and music: Andrew Agosta Music