Walking the road less traveled.
Evanko began his career in the Media Arts at the age of 11 when his uncle gave him his first guitar. His introduction to music at such a young age instilled in him discipline and commitment that fostered a strong work ethic. Music launched Evanko’s creativity and fueled his drive for excellence in both the creative and academic worlds.
Evanko receiving his award from SUNY New Paltz President Darrell P. Wheeler.
Academic Career
Evanko graduated with a 3.9 GPA in Organizational Communications and Journalism from SUNY New Paltz.
Evanko was on the Dean’s List for academic excellence during his tenure at SUNY New Paltz. Most recently, Evanko was honored by the College President Darrell P. Wheeler as an “Outstanding Graduate” of the communications department.
Evanko has an Associates Degree in Communications and Media Art from Dutchess Community College in addition to being a Deans List student.
Photo by Evanko at the Pat Ryan Congressional swearing-in ceremony.
Journalism
As a reporter for the Legislative Gazette Evanko interviewed both candidates - Pat Ryan, D-Gardiner, and Colin Schmitt, R-New Windsor in the Congressional for District 18. In addition, Evanko wrote a piece reporting on the Comptroller’s 2022 overdose analysis which included interviews with Ulster County Sheriff, Juan Figueroa and State Senator, Michelle Hinchey, D-Saugerties.
During his time at the Gazette, Evanko attended Pat Ryan’s in-District swearing-in ceremony as well as his victory party.
Photo taken of Evanko posing with his Mandolin in the Poughkeepsie Train Station.
Music
With a record deal from Victory Records with his band Meridian, Evanko’s learned leadership skills and honed his knowledge of the social media management to create content driven marketing campaigns including; but not limited to, daily post’s consisting of media such as music video’s and photography, regional performances, networking with industry professionals and more in order to maintain a consistent social media presence.
Meridian’s song, “Everything that Kept Me Moving” was number 1 on Sirius XM’s Faction. Due to Evanko’s coordination with the press and media the song was featured on many television and radio shows including MTV’s popular reality series, “The Challenge.”
In 2016, Evanko independently released his debut solo album “High & Dry.” As the sole writer and performer on the album he scripted and conceptualized the visuals for the record. Creation of a consistent marketing schedule garnered attention from several media outlets including the idobi Radio network, leading to an interview with Mike Fishkin of the “Gone Fishkin” show.
Evanko’s perseverance and drive returned him yet again to the centerstage in late 2017 with the formation of a new band, The Stash. Again, Evanko’s content creation planning led The Stash to accumulate over 150,000 total views on YouTube in three months and performed a string of successful shows in the tri-state, including a sold out show at Brooklyn’s world famous venue, Gold Sounds.
The success of these efforts would lead The Stash to sign with Anchor Eighty Four Records and attain press attention in a number of outlets such as Buzzfeed, Substream Magazine, and the Alternative Press.
Evanko on set during an episode of Our Band Show.
Production
Evanko has worked on a number of short films and multi-cam productions since he first became acquainted with the media arts while attending the Dutchess Community College Film Department in early 2016.
Evanko has a sharp ear and is often thrust into principal positions in the audio engineering department of productions. In addition, Evanko is a producer and show runner due to his ability to oversee a project from conception to completion, including many roles including, but not limited to, search engine optimization, coordinating and scheduling talent and crew, writing, recording, music production, mixing and mastering audio, and graphic design and video elements.
He has created, produced and hosted two Podcast’s - Talkin’ TV & Talkin’ with Andrew & Chris.
He currently is a creator, producer, show runner, audio engineer and host for web-based music show, Our Band Show.