When Catawba College junior, Monica Ostroska of Salisbury, put together her "Merry Little Christmas" album, it was not just a seasonal offering, it was an exercise in her craft. The East Rowan High School graduate and fledgling songwriter/musician majoring in music business decided to do her own sort of capitalization on the holiday season. During the two and a half month process, she gained experience in creating, promoting and selling an album, but she did not have to borrow a dime for the project. Instead, she obtained in-kind and paid sponsorships, avoiding debt and guaranteeing profit. That profit she plans to use in the production of her next albumof all original songs. She will begin work on this second album with producer Jerod Jacobs of Salisbury in January. Read more »

(See also Momo's "Merry Little Christmas" album)

(Professional Photos by Elizabeth Marie)