Our Bio


Paolo  

 

PAOLO SCHIAFONE

Hi!! Hello!! Everybody!!  This is Paolo and he sings and plays rhythm guitar.  Paolo also writes the lyrics and music for The Happyz!! 

Paolo has been involved in the Toronto music scene for the past fifteen years. His primary instrument is the drums, but he has since taken up guitar, vocals, and is an active member in the St. Margret Mary’s choir.  In addition to volunteering with the choir, Paolo has also volunteered his time on 105.5 CHRY community radio as a sound engineer and co-host for the Italian cultural radio show: Red, Hot, and Green.

After graduating from York University in 2003, Paolo left for Italy to teach English.  He worked in Sicily at The British College of Modern Languages for three years teaching English to pre-school and elementary school children.  As music was a big part of the recitals, Paolo took an active role in writing lyrics and music for the children to perform in English.  This is where it began.  He bought his first guitar in Italy and started to write music with the hopes of inspiring children through song.

Paolo is an active member in good standing with the Ontario College of Teachers.  He graduated from the Niagara University Faculty of Education in January 2010.  Paolo tries to incorporate music or music media in his teaching, because he feels that music is a valuable educational tool.  “I use my guitar, singing, and percussion to facilitate an exploration of music across the curriculum in which all students can participate.  Through music and active participation students have the opportunity to learn, sing, and enjoy making music, which can increase academic performance, oral and memory skills, and self-confidence.” 

If you would like to ask Paolo a question or just say hi to him you can email him at: pschiafone@thehappyz.com

# GREG MARBELLA  

 Hi!! Hello!! Everybody!!  This is Greg and he plays lead guitar and sings for The Happyz. 

Greg Marbella is the lead guitar player for the Happyz, and has a passion for all types of music.  He has been playing guitar for over 20 years and taught guitar to children and adults.  During the day, he is a Registered Nurse working with young and adolescent children with psychiatric challenges.  He also works closely with families to implement programs and strategies to help them cope with their difficulties.  Greg has implemented a music therapy program for the children under his care.  Greg incorporates music and music therapy to lift their spirits and combat depression.  Greg enjoys the challenge of blues music.  He believes that, “ The blues is the easiest form of music to learn, yet the hardest to master”.

If you would like to ask Greg a question or just say hi to him you can email him at: gmarbella@thehappyz.com

#  PAOLA NAVARETTE 

Hi!! Hello!! Everybody!!  This is Paola she sings and plays percussion for The Happyz. 

Paola has been entertaining and wowing audiences with her powerful voice for over 10 years. She is very passionate about singing and it shows with every performance.  As an added talent, Paola can sing in English, Italian or Spanish.  Paola sings at wedding receptions, church ceremonies, private parties, and corporate functions.  She has also competed in many Music Talent Showcases, receiving numerous awards.  Paola has participated in the CHIN International Music Festival for the past 5 years.  She placed 3rd in 2004 and received the Eria Fachin Special Achievement Award.  In 2007 she placed 2nd in the Original Song category with a song written by a friend of hers.  This song was also entered into a competition in Italy.  In 2008 she placed 2nd in the Cover Song category.  Paola has also participated in the Brampton Idol Competition for the past few years and in 2008 she placed 1st. Brampton Idol’s last year of Competition, Paola was asked to participate in the final competition in 2009.

Paola ran her own Karaoke business for 6 years in Toronto and Bolton, running their Friday night Karaoke events, which became very successful.  Paola works in an administrative role assisting smaller companies in organizing staffing and payroll solutions.

If you would like to ask Paola a question or just say hi to her you can email her at: pnavarette@thehappyz.com

# KEVIN ANDERSON 

Hi!! Hello!! Everybody!!  This is Kevin and he plays bass and sings.  Kevin is also the sound engineer for The Happyz! 

Kevin Anderson is a Canadian born multi-instrumental musician, producer, and song writer.  Over the past two decades Kevin has toured North America, and has Produced and performed on over 30 Albums and soundtracks. 

In the meantime, Kevin provides management for programs and services that assist children and adults with psychiatric challenges.  The programs include music, art, and psycho therapy. 

If you would like to ask Kevin a question or just say hi to him you can email him at: kanderson@thehappyz.com