Amber Brooke, Coloratura Soprano

Another New Year!

2012-01-06T20:22:00.002-05:00

Well, my New Year's Resolution to slow down lasted until about July. I took on a teaching job at a private school. It's really tough! Hats off to all those teachers out there!

I'm still singing with the Michael O'Neal Singers. In October, I was the soprano soloist for The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass and we just started rehearsals for this year's Chamber Singers concert in March. It's going to be so great! It's called Double Exposure and features 2 versions of all the songs by 2 different composers. Not only is it fun to hear the different interpretations but it is absolutely heavenly music!

The Reminiscents did a gig in December. That was fun! Wish there were more!

I started a Princess Party business. That's going well! Very busy!

Still singing with Chords of Faith. Still have 3 kids. Still doing other private concerts. Still singing with CCOC for school shows and Dinner and a Diva.

So, life is really crazy! Here are all my websites:

Well, you're on this one...
www.thereminiscents.com
www.mariettaprincess.com
www.lopezluv.blogspot.com

Plays, Concerts, and Shows

2011-09-22T19:29:00.003-04:00

So much to do and so much already done!

Mali and I finished performing in Cinderella. Alex decided he wasn't quite ready to be on stage.

There wasn't time for me to breathe as I had to get ready for Dinner and a Diva last Tuesday.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzf6GKX1B3U

Now, I'm preparing to be the soloist for Michael O'Neal Singers in their upcoming concert of The Bluegrass Mass. Very cool!

Then, next on the books is Carmen at Petite Auberge in November. Then, it's time for the holidays and a whole new year!

School is in Session

2011-08-13T22:10:00.002-04:00

Last week I did a wonderful performance of Classic Broadway and last night did a second performance of "On the Lightside" where I sang "Rags" and "Bewitched". But the biggest news is that I have started teaching at Shreiner Academy. I am teaching music for ages 2 years - 8th grade. It is really a challenge for me!

Mali, Alex, and I will be appearing in Capitol City Opera's production of Rogers and Hammerstein's Cinderella. Mali is becoming a seasoned stage actress, but this will be Alex's first production.

Summer 2011

2011-06-23T12:36:00.002-04:00

I was able to somewhat clear my schedule for the Summer in order to spend lots of time with my kids at the pool. My very talented daughter Mali and I will be performing in a production of Annie Jr. together in July. On July 23, I will be performing for Capitol City Opera's yearly On the Lightside. This year is All-American Musical Theatre so I'll be singing some fun music from Oklahoma, Grease, and Ragtime. The evening will include about 10 of Capitol City's best singers and lots of group numbers as well.

I'm looking forward to a few performances of Classic Broadway around town as well as performances with The Reminiscents.

Most exciting, Michael O'Neal is releasing a new CD with a track of me singing "Straighten Up and Fly Right", which is due to be released in August and will also be available on iTunes and Amazon.

2011

2011-05-04T15:04:00.002-04:00

Winter and Spring of 2011 have been very busy for me. I learned the role of Juliet for a performance of Dinner & a Diva as well as soloing for the Chamber Singers' February concerts. I have been performing in Elementary Schools for Capitol City Opera's Educational Outreach Program and also did a fabulous fundraiser for 500 Songs for Kids with The Reminiscents. So much for slowing down!

Mission Statement

2011-01-09T11:42:00.003-05:00

I have been contemplating for some time having a personal mission statement. I thought it would help motivate me and explain to others why I do all that I do. So, after much thought, here it is:

As we now enjoy relative ease of existence, we are challenged to make life meaningful and to strive for something more within ourselves. To this end, I believe music gives us the opportunity to be in touch with something better in our core, to explore who we truly are and what we feel and by so doing, to become better and higher versions of ourselves.

From now on, it will be posted a the bottom of the page.

A New Year - 2011

2011-01-05T18:14:00.002-05:00

December nearly killed me, but yet here I am, still singing. Most of what I performed in December was half prepared, I must admit, and as I became more and more tired, it got worse and worse. But, I a quite proud of my performance of "Come Unto Him" at the Messiah Sing-a-long.

As the year turns to 2011, I have a few musical endeavors up my sleeve. Of course, I continue to be a part of CCOC's educational outreach program (www.ccityopera.com). I also am still singing with the Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers (www.mosingers.com).

The Michael O'Neal Chamber Singers will present "Gloria: Expressions of Joy" on February 13 at Alpharetta Presbyterian at 3PM. It is just what it sounds like, a collection of Gloria's by various composers. We will repeat the program on February 15 at Peachtree Presbyterian at 7:30PM. The Michael O'Neal Singers are preparing the Brahms' Requiem with full orchestra on March 13 at RUMC at 3PM.

I am working with the opera club to learn the role of Juliette in Romeo and Juliette. When we are prepared, we will host a performance.

I am soon going to be teaching chorus and private lessons at the Shreiner Academy. I am very excited to be able to mold these young people in their musical education and to give them tools they can use for the rest of their lives.

Pictures of Tartuffe

2010-11-01T14:29:00.002-04:00

Gearing Up for the Holidays

2010-11-01T14:23:00.002-04:00

Halloween is over now so the race is on. Christmas will be here before we know it. The Reminiscents have 2 private gigs coming up before Christmas which I am so grateful for. We're still working hard to get future gigs. We'll be learning some Christmas tunes, which should be fun.

I'm not singing with MOS for the Christmas concert because I will be involved with Chords of Faith the first 2 weekends in December. But I'll be with MOS for the Messiah Sing-a-long. I am also singing with an SSAA group from my ward. We will be singing for several Christmas functions.

Opera club is going to get started with Romeo and Juliet after Thanksgiving. I'm really looking forward to that.

Post-Opera Life

2010-10-02T17:22:00.002-04:00

Post-opera life has been a little hard to adapt to for me. After two weeks though, I'm settling in. I've been able to spend a lot of time with my children and concentrate on their needs.

I've decided not to have any more basement concerts. They have not been well attended unfortunately, so we will just push forward without the fundraisers and see how much we can get done. It may or may not happen by March.

Now I have Chords of Faith (www.chordsoffaith.com) on Sundays. We will have 2 concerts, one in December and one in April.

I'm also singing for my 7th season with The Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers. (www.mosingers.com) We have many concerts to look forward to which I will post of course.

The Reminiscents have not had a gig for quite some time. We're still praying that things will take off someday.

I'm trying to start an opera club (I'm sure we'll come up with a better name) in order to learn opera roles. I would really love to have a wonderful group to sing with on a weekly basis. We'll meet, learn the roles, and then perform the opera in concert.

Tartuffe Sept. 10-12

2010-08-22T20:51:00.003-04:00

We have been in rehearsals now for Tartuffe for 2 weeks and have fully blocked the 1st and 3rd acts. They are looking good! We were excited for our Tartuffe to join us this week upon his return from New York and are looking forward to our Damis to come in on Thursday and make our cast complete (and so we can block Act 2). To order tickets, go to the Capitol City Opera website at www.ccityopera.com.

Tartuffe is an opera in English by the composer Kirke Mechem and Capitol City Opera Company is producing it on the stage at Oglethorpe University on Fri. and Sat. Sept. 10 and 11 at 8PM and Sun. Sept. 12 at 3PM. The costumes will be fantastic, but will not be able to overshadow the great singing that is going to happen. The opera is based upon the play by Moliere that premiered in 1660, but the opera premiered in 1980 at the San Francisco Opera. It is very easy to listen to and the comedy should make it easy to watch as well; however, that does not diminish the fact that it is tough to sing.

I can only speak for myself, of course, but the entrances are tricky and the first note of each phrase is sometimes elusive. I have never worked so hard to learn something. My part is also dauntingly large for me at this time in my life, but I am relishing the hard work. I play Dorine, the maid. She is intrical in scheming the overthrow of Tartuffe and therefore, I have conversations with each of the characters separately, sing the well-known aria "Fair Robin I Love" and laugh a lot (which in opera makes for some very difficult music).

I did some interesting research this week on the time period. The king of France at the time was Louis XIV. He reigned for a whopping 72 years, the longest of any European despot. He loved the theatre and was a dancer himself, taking part in several productions at court. Moliere plays were a favorite at court; therefore, Moliere frequently wrote scenes in deference to his sovereign (as seen in Act 3, Scene 2 of our opera). It was a relatively peaceful time for the country so our bourgeoisie characters would be living a life of pious devotion in the country, which is where all the trouble begins. In search of true Christianity, Orgon invites Tartuffe into his home. Everyone else in the house, Damis and Marianne (Orgon's children), Dorine, and Valere (Marianne's fiance) can all see Tartuffe's true colors, which include his lust for Orgon's wife Elmire, and must plot to get him out of the house and keep their inheritance at the same time!

I am thoroughly enjoying figuring out this character and learning the music and rehearsing with some other great singers. Now, if only we had an audience.....

Summer is coming to an end

2010-07-26T17:56:00.002-04:00

Capitol City Opera Company gave another Summer On the Lightside on Saturday night. This year, we sang the music of Rogers and Hammerstein to a sold out crowd.

Next up, Build the Basement #4: Upon this Rock. The very talented Tom Gregory and I have been working on some of the Christian music I wrote when I was younger, bringing it back to life. Edward Galaviz will join us on drums on Saturday night, August 14th at 7PM in the basement. Franco and I have framed out the recording booth and Franco has been working on the wiring. So, the next step is the sheetrock. Then, it will really look like a room!

Next week, I begin rehearsals for Tartuffe. I'll be playing Dorine, the maid. It's a fantastic part for me and I am very excited about it. Tartuffe plays September 10th and 11th at 8PM and September 12th at 3PM at Oglethorpe University.

The Reminiscents are working on some bookings for the fall. I'll keep you updated on that.

The Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers are getting started again soon and I'm auditioning for Chords of Faith this year. That ought to keep me plenty busy!

Sing for Christ

2010-07-02T19:22:00.003-04:00

I sang on Saturday, June 26th at the Sing for Christ concert. I don't get to sing this style of music very often so it was a treat, especially because I go to sing duets with Lee Herring.

July 2010

2010-06-30T20:17:00.002-04:00

2 things for July:
1st is the 3rd installment of the Build the Basement concerts on Saturday, July 10 from 2-4 PM. It will be an ice cream social highlighted by some patriotic music.

2nd is the annual fundraiser for Capitol City Opera, On the Lightside. This year, the troupe will be performing Rogers & Hammerstein. You know I love that! Sorry, this show is already sold out, but we're seeking another venue to have a 2nd performance. I'll let you know!

A Successful Week

2010-06-20T09:47:00.002-04:00

I thought I didn't have anything to do this summer. Boy, was I wrong! I gave 6 concerts last week. On Saturday, June 12, I had the 2nd Basement Concert. It was such a pleasure for me to share 14 of my favorite classic broadway pieces, which included "Bewitched, Bothered, and Bewildered", "Many a New Day", and "Much More". All of the pieces were from shows that debuted between 1940-1960 and many were by Rogers & Hammerstein, as they ruled Broadway during that time. Keri Hughes won the name that tune game. She named all 14 pieces and the shows they were from and got almost all the composers as well! Wow!

On Sunday, I went to sing in Roswell Square with Michael O'Neal Chamber Singers. I sang "The Sound of Music" as a solo also. It was so hot! But the audience still enjoyed the chamber, folk, and popular music. After the concert, John, Debbie and I went over to John's house with Allen and Catherine to practice for Dinner and a Diva. I sang through Queen of the Night twice and I was soooo tired afterwards. Long day!

Tuesday night was Dinner and a Diva at Petite Auberge. I sang "Der Holle Rache", "Chi il bel sogno", "In quelle trine morbide", "Saper vorreste", and "Caro nome". That was a lot of high notes, but I was well warmed up and it went rather well. I would have liked to have known the words to In quelle trine morbide a little more securely, but my brain was full. And Caro nome was rather funny. I got stuck in a loop on one phrase and after singing it twice, I looked at Catherine like "Help me!" and she skipped ahead, played a chord really strongly, and got me going again. John said it was the extended version of Caro nome. Luckily, the audience appeared to have drunk enough wine not to have noticed. We repeated the same program at Sugo on Thursday night and I sang Caro nome perfectly. I was so vocally tired by this time that my F's were a little closer to E and 1/4, but no one is perfect and that is the foibles of live performance.

On Wednesday morning, I did 2 Dr. Seuss's back-to-back. We don't normally have school shows during the summer, so I was glad this summer camp had hired us. Capitol City needs all the income it can get to prepare for Tartuffe.

Lastly, on Saturday night, the Alba's held a lovely party in their beautiful backyard and I got to sing a duet with Lee Herring. I sang "If I Loved You" and "Where the Boys Are" solo and then Lee and I sang "More than Wonderful" and "Upon this Rock". I closed the night out with a sing-a-long of "Que Sera Sera". In between there was a bagpipe player. Very cool! And a wonderful performance by the Tuesday Diva's. They're so great!

Lee and I will sing those duets again next Saturday at "Sing for Christ" at Chestnut Ridge Christian Church. I will also sing "Upon this Rock" and "We Shall Behold Him". I'm so happy to finally be able to sing these songs that I grew up hearing my mom sing. Very sentimental!

Then, I have to start learning the music for the Capitol City Opera Company's annual fundraiser On the Lightside. This year it is the music of Rogers & Hammerstein, so I already know a lot of it. That will be Saturday, July 24 at Callanwolde. Several tables are already sold out, so people should go ahead and make reservations. www.ccityopera.com

I definitely need to be working on Tartuffe. The role of Dorine is slighty larger than I imagined and will take some hard work to learn. Hopefully, I can perfect it before September 10th when we open at Oglethorpe.

I have my calendar ready for all the Build the Basement Concerts for the rest of the year. I'll add that here as well. Phew! I think that's it!

June 2010

2010-05-27T07:31:00.003-04:00

The 2nd Build the Basement Concert is coming soon. Saturday, June 12 at 7PM in the newly framed basement at 3071 Woodlake Ct. Marietta, GA 30062, I will be doing "Classic Broadway: Music that Electrifies" to celebrate the installation of the designated breaker box. Tickets are $5 each. There will be a Name that Tune contest with a prize for the winner. Also, the 2X4's are still exposed and can be purchased and signed or decorated for only $2.50 each. This is a great opportunity to enjoy some really great music and have a little fun in the process. I can't tell you what I'm singing because that would ruin the Name that Tune contest, but I promise it's good! For more information, you can contact me at amber.brooke.soprano@gmail.com.

Sunday, June 13 at 3PM, the Michael O'Neal Chamber Singers will be singing for a 2nd year in a row on the Roswell Square as part of Roswell's Concerts on the Square series. This is free to the public. Bring a chair and enjoy the beautiful music and, hopefully, beautiful weather. www.mosingers.com

Tuesday, June 15 at 6:30PM, I will be performing the Queen of the Night aria as well as "Che il bel sogno di Doretta", "In quelle trine morbide", "Saper voreste", and "Caro nome" with the Capitol City Opera Company as part of their Dinner and a Diva monthly concert series at Petite Auberge. I will be joined by Debbie Rostad and John LaForge for "Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi". Tickets are $55 for a 4-course dinner and the concert. www.ccityopera.com (check out the new website) We will repeat this program at Sugo in Roswell on Thursday, June 17 at 7PM.

Saturday, June 19th, Ill be celebrating Father's Day at the Alba's and singing with Lee Herring (Yay!). Sorry this is by invitation only!

Saturday, June 26 at 7PM at Chestnut Ridge Christian Church, I have been invited to perform, with Lee Herring again, on the 2nd annual Sing for Christ. We will be doing a few duets and some solos each. www.ajcexchange.com/5-Community/27-art-music-theater/ads/566477/detail

I am soooo busy learning all this music, but I am in heaven. Not only is it all really great music, I love to be busy! There are so many choices for being entertained, I hope you choose one or two!

Lots Coming Up

2010-05-11T23:00:00.003-04:00

On Friday night May 14th, the Michael O'Neal Singers will be performing "Songs from America's Heartland" at RUMC at 8PM. www.mosingers.com

On Saturday night May 15th, the "Build the Basement" concert is from 8-11. (see below) When you arrive, please have your picture taken and sign the guest book. Enjoy socializing, some snacks, and dancing to 60's music all night.

Then, in June, I'm looking forward to another "Build the Basement" concert on Saturday, June 12th at 8PM. Since we will be installing the new breaker box for the studio in June, I will be singing "Classic Broadway: the Music that Electrifies". If you attended May's concert, you can pick up your picture.

Tuesday, June 15th is Dinner and a Diva at Petite Auberge and on Thursday, June 17th at Sugo. I'll be singing some Mozart, Puccini, and Verdi and a duet with John LaForge. WooHoo!

On Saturday, June 19th, I'll be singing at the annual Father's Day concert at the Alba's. I couldn't decide on a style (story of my life) so I'm going to sing all my styles. I'll be singing some Broadway, 60's, opera, operetta, and Contemporary Christian unless I can find a tenor who will do duets with me...

On Saturday, June 26th, I'll be singing at the 2nd annual Sing for Christ at Chestnut Ridge Christian Church.

In July, I'll be singing at the annual fundraiser for Capitol City Opera Company. This year we're doing Rogers and Hammerstein. That's right up my alley. Should be great. www.ccityopera.org

I start rehearsals for Tartuffe in July also. It runs at Oglethorpe University on September 10-12. I'm so looking forward to that!

Build the Basement Concert Series

2010-04-30T22:46:00.004-04:00

The first "Build the Basement" Concert will be held on Saturday, May 15 from 8 - 11 PM in the basement of 3071 Woodlake Ct. Marietta GA 30062. The theme this month will be "2 X 4 = 60's". What does that mean? I'll be singing 60's all night so ya'll dress up in your 60's garb and come and twist the night away. The ticket price is $2.50 for each person or family. This buys you a 2 X 4 board in our basement which you will be able to write or paint on while you listen to the music and enjoy dancing and socializing. Kids of all ages are welcome and I'm hoping we will have some guest performers as well. Come join us for the fun!

History of the Build the Basement Concert Series:
In 1997, Franco graduated from The Full Sail University in Orlando with a degree in Audio Engineering. He then went to work onboard the Ocean Breeze where he met singer/dancer Amber Brooke. We got married and have gone on to have 3 beautiful children. In the ensuing 11 years, Franco has joined the corporate world and given up his dream to become an audio engineer. Two years ago, we bought our dream home with a full basement which has been sitting waiting to be turned into a recording studio. For Franco's 39th birthday, I promised him that I would complete his recording studio in one year in time for his 40th birthday. So, if you attend one of the 12 monthly concerts in the next year, you will receive 4 things:
1) part ownership in Franco's recording studio
2) a copy of the first CD we produce down there
3) 12 fun evenings with great music
4) an invitation to Franco's 40th birthday bash in the finished basement (to be held on Saturday, April 23rd, 2011)
Each month will feature a new theme and you will be able to see the basement progress from its current state to a full-blown recording studio! Some concerts I'm considering include Contemporary Christian music, musical theatre (of course), hymns, and the 20's - the 70's. Should be interesting! We hope you will want to be part of the magic!

By the way, that's not all I'm doing, Chamber Singers has 2 concerts coming up. The first is May 8th in Big Canoe at 7:30PM and the second is June 13th on the square in Roswell at 3PM. Michael O'Neal Singers will also be performing Music from the Heartland on May 14th at 8PM at RUMC. http://www.mosingers.com/

I am also greatly looking forward to some action with CCOC. In June, I will be performing on the Dinner and a Diva concert series at Petite Auberge and Sugo. In July, we will perform the Lightside fundraiser at Callanwolde. This year's theme is Rodgers and Hammerstein. And in August, I begin rehearsals for Tartuffe which will be performed at Oglethorpe University on September 10-12, 2010. http://www.ccityopera.org/

This year we will have the 2nd Father's Day bar-b-que and concert at the Alba's on June 19th. I'm honored to be asked to perform with them again. This year I'm thinking about something like "Time to Say Good-bye".

And last but not least, on June 26th, I will be performing at the 2nd Annual Sing for Christ. I'm still looking for a tenor to perform with me on that one. I would love to pull out some old Sandi Patti/Larnelle Harris duets!

Oh yeah, the 2nd "Build the Basement" concert will be on Saturday, June 12th from 8 - 11 PM.

Amber Brooke - mom/singer/construction worker

2010-04-11T17:56:00.003-04:00

Since The Reminiscents' gig on March 20, it appears I have ceased to be a singer and become a construction worker! Now after finishing remodeling the master bathroom and the laundry room (really, I did it myself), it's time to get a manicure and do some practicing. I don't have many performances in the next little while, so it's a great time to prepare for what is coming.

In May, the Michael O'Neal Singers will be performing America's Heartland: Celebrating Our Heritage on Friday, May 14 at 8PM at RUMC. They will also be performing Hear the Future: 2nd Annual MOS Invitational Music Festival on Sunday, April 25 at 3 PM where they will be singing the Vivaldi Gloria again. Unfortunately, I am unable to attend that concert so won't be able to do that solo again. What a shame! I encourage you to check out what MOS is doing all year and buy season tickets at www.mosingers.com. It is the best large choir in the area next to the Atlanta Symphony Chorus and very reasonable to attend.

In June, I'll be doing Dinner and a Diva on the third Tuesday of the month at Petite Auberge and the following Thursday at Sugo. Also in June, we will be doing the 2nd Father's Day concert at the Alba's home. Two years ago, this was a wonderful time to hear the talents and enjoy the company of our friends. This is a free event if anyone would like to attend. I'll be singing some more popular music. On June 26th, I'll be participating in the 2nd Annual Sing for Christ. I'll be singing with my church choir as well as doing a set on my own. I'm thinking of doing some Sandi Patti or something like that. This is also free to all and all are welcome. I'll send out more information about it when I know.

July will bring the annual fundraiser for Capitol City Opera. We are only doing one night this year of Rogers and Hammerstein so hopefully the audience will come out to support us. It is a picnic dinner and concert. Buy a whole table and bring your family and friends!

In August, I will begin rehearsals for Tartuffe which will be performed at Oglethorpe University in September.

Many of you have asked me about Broadway for the Ridiculously High Soprano and I appreciate that. It has been innordinately difficult to schedule this performance because of Allen's busy schedule and all the school holidays and vacations and such; however, we are keeping our fingers crossed for a date in November. I am trying to convince Jenny Rawson to join me in a duet recital of English music with Purcell, Handel, Stephen Foster, Copeland, Bernstein, and some musical theatre. Hopefully, it will come together and we may do that in November instead and keep putting the Broadway concert off a little longer.

After that, it's back to Michael O'Neal for the next season and whatever else comes along for Capitol City Opera and The Reminiscents. We are looking for gigs for The Reminiscents if anyone has any ideas. Feel free to recommend us. www.thereminiscents.com

February and March 2010

2010-03-07T17:09:00.002-05:00

February and March have mostly been dedicated to The Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers. The Chamber Singers had 2 concerts in February. Hopefully, I'll be getting a copy of the CD soon, because it was exquisite! In March, the big group will perform "Wearin' of the Green" in honor of St. Patrick's Day. It is the Michael O'NEAL Singers after all. But, it's fun to watch the Irish Step Dancers. www.mosingers.com.

The Reminiscents have a gig this month which I'm really excited about. We'll be singing the whole night for the Cherokee County Humane Society Fundraiser "Dining for Pets Sock Hop." I've put a lot of new video on our website, if you haven't seen it lately. www.thereminiscents.com.

A New Year

2010-01-20T21:49:00.002-05:00

Not much going on in January, but the year is just getting started. I have a couple of school shows and my son's birthday party this Saturday. He wants a Dr. Seuss themed party and for mommy to sing Gertrude McFuzz. Seriously, I didn't put him up to it. He really asked for it. It's the same party Mali had last year and she is really mad that he has "stolen" her idea.

I sang for Capitol City Opera last night at their January Dinner and a Diva at Petite Auberge. I couldn't find the charger for the video camera (of course, it showed up today in my husband's car). I even tried to buy a new one that ended up not working. So, sorry, no videos of my fabulous high F from Glitter and Be Gay. I had a tough night for lyrics but felt I sang well.

Unfortunately, the Teaching Museum North completely fell through as a venue for "Broadway for the Ridiculously High Soprano" so that is not going to happen until I can find a suitable venue.

Next up, two concerts with the Michael O'Neal Chamber Singers in February and Latitia in Old Maid and the Thief in March followed by a gig with The Reminiscents also in March. By the way, if you haven't seen The Reminiscents website lately, you should really take a look. I changed the design to be very psychodelic with all new pictures and videos. We're crossing our fingers for more gigs!

What December Holds

2009-11-20T11:37:00.004-05:00

November is nearly gone but December holds some exciting concerts. First up is a concert I will be giving for the Tape Ministry at Roswell United Methodist Church. I will be reprising some of the music from last year's "Amber's Alleluia" concert.

On Sunday, December 6th at 3PM at Roswell United Methodist Church, the Michael O'Neal Singers will give their annual Christmas concert. This year we will sing the Vivaldi Gloria with chamber orchestra. I just learned that I will be singing the soprano solo "Domine Deus". I'm very excited about this opportunity to further my experience singing oratorio music. Also on this concert, the Georgia Regional Girls Choir will present Britten's Ceremony of Carols. We will then sing several pieces together and ask the audience to join in carol singing.

On Saturday, December 12th from 5PM to 9PM, I will be singing at Bulloch Hall in Roswell for their 4th annual Trilogy of Candles Tour. The theme this year is The Twelve Days of Christmas. I will be singing in the "Six Swans a-Swimming" room. I asked for hazard pay in case we inhale some feathers!

On Sunday, December 20th at 3PM, The Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers will once again host a Messiah sing-a-long with Chamber Orchestra. The Chamber Singers will sing the solos and lead from the stage while the Singers sit amongst the audience members to help you sing along.

Merry Christmas to all! Sing lots of carols!

Broadway Concert Postponed

2009-11-09T09:12:00.002-05:00

I am so sorry to report that this weekend's concert has been postponed. There was some trouble with securing the venue for this weekend, not to mention my broken toe and a bad cold. It just seems that the gods were against a concert happening this weekend.

However, do not despair, we will reschedule for January and I will let you know when it will be as soon as I know.

Broadway for the Ridiculously High Soprano

2009-10-29T20:10:00.002-04:00

Friday and Saturday, November 13 and 14 at 8PM at The Teaching Museum North on Mimosa Blvd. in Roswell, I am planning a recital with Allen Baston accompanying called Broadway for the Ridiculously High Soprano. The program should include the following:

Many a New Day from Oklahoma
Moonfall from The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Meadowlark from The Baker's Wife
Make Believe from Showboat
If I Loved You from Carousel
If I Were a Bell from Guys and Dolls
The Finer Things from Jane Eyre
Children of the Wind from Rags
Bewitched from Pal Joey
Green Finch and Linnet Bird from Sweeney Todd
The Girl in 14G
Much More from The Fantasticks
The Simple Joys of Maidenhood from Camelot
Somebody, Somewhere from The Most Happy Fella
I Could Have Danced All Night from My Fair Lady
Yes, My Heart from Carnival

All of these pieces are near and dear to me so I'll be blah, blah, blahing about that between songs.

The Teaching Museum North is a lovely venue with a beautiful grand piano. Should be a wonderful backdrop for this dramatic evening.

Childcare will be provided in the Dr. Seuss room.

Admission is free. However, I will be passing the hat to help pay for the rental of the hall. You can give whatever you feel I'm worth. Decide once you've heard it!

Coming Up

2009-09-15T22:51:00.002-04:00

The Reminiscents will be performing at The Paulding County Fall Festival on October 10 at 1PM on the square in Dallas, GA.

The following weekend, Saturday, October 17, we'll be at The Taste of Roswell on the Roswell Square. (time TBA)

Other than that, I will be singing at church and preparing a recital "Broadway for the Ridiculously High Soprano" as well as singing with the Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers in their upcoming concerts.

The Medium

2009-09-15T22:29:00.004-04:00

The Capitol City Opera Company presented The Medium by Gian Carlo Menotti this past weekend at Oglethorpe University's Conant Performing Arts Center. I played Monica. It was a dream-role for me. There was a strong cast that was wonderful to work with! Here are a few pictures. I will post a little video as soon as possible.

That'll Show Him

2009-07-12T22:42:00.002-04:00

Had the extreme pleasure of performing Sondheim all this weekend with a fun and wonderful group of folks! My best performance today was of That'll Show Him. I'm mad at myself for making a mistake during Green Finch and Linnet Bird, because that's a great song for me, but I sang it well the other two days.

Coming Up

2009-07-06T20:35:00.002-04:00

This weekend I'll be performing with Capitol City Opera in their annual Light Side fund raising event. This year we're doing Sondheim and I love it. It's going to be great fun! www.ccityopera.com for info and tickets!

Nothing planned after that until September when I'll be singing Monica in The Medium with Capitol City Opera. I'm also working on a concert of Broadway songs. I'm thinking about calling it "In My Element: Musical Theatre for the Rediculously High Soprano" It should be ready sometime in November.

What I did in May

2009-07-06T20:27:00.002-04:00

I sang Art is Calling for Me (also known as The Prima Donna Song) from Victor Herbert's 1911 The Enchantress at the final Michael O'Neal concert of the season. It was a real chance to shine in front of 3000 audience members. I loved playing it up and being a real prima donna!

The Reminiscents performed for the JVHS '53-'55 class reunion in May. We had a great time sporting our new 50's dresses and singing a whole new set of 50's songs. Here I am singing Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend. To see more clips, visit the website www.thereminiscents.com.

May Madness

2009-05-03T22:10:00.003-04:00

Lots of fun things coming up in May! I have taken the whole month of April to prepare for the happenings in May. First up is 2 gigs for The Reminiscents. We are doing a performance for the annual dinner for the Roswell Convention and Visitors Bureau and then a class reunion in Columbus. We're excited about these gigs because we will be reaching back to the 50's which means all new songs and new costumes, as well as a new cast member. We're so happy that Courtney Loner has decided to join the group. She is going to be a huge asset to us. But, sorry these gigs are private. I'll let you know as soon as we have a public gig so all can come see the new look and sound!
Next up is Dinner and a Diva at Petite Auberge on Tuesday, May 19. May is Mozart. This month we'll be doing highlights from Don Giovanni, which means Batti, batti and Vedrai carino for me as well as a duet with Gerald Yarblay. You can always check www.ccityopera.com for information and tickets.
Last up for the month is Celebrate Musical Theatre with Michael O'Neal Singers on Friday, May 22 at 8PM. We will be singing highlights from musical theatre from the last 100 years. I will be performing Victor Herbert's Art is Calling for Me from The Enchantress. Great stuff! Check out www.mosingers.com for info and tickets!
See you around!

An Evening of Song

2009-03-18T18:38:00.004-04:00

On Saturday, March 14, I sang with The Capitol City Opera Company in their Evening of Song. I sang first Laetitia's aria Steal Me, Sweet Thief from The Old Maid and the Thief by Gian Carlo Menotti and second Susana's aria Deh vieni, non tardar from Don Giovanni by Mozart. John LaForge joined me as Giovanni in the duet La ci darem la mano as I sang Zerlina. We are trying to raise enough money to keep the company afloat and perform two operas next year. I am scheduled to sing Monica in The Medium in the Fall and then hopefully, La Traviata will go on in the Spring. It had to be cancelled due to lack of funding this year. We did this evening of song instead.

Busy! Busy!

2009-02-15T21:19:00.002-05:00

I finished up the last performance of Dracula today. We all felt really jazzed about it. After 8 performances, we finally got it just right. Now, I wish we could do it for another weekend.
I was just hired to be the soprano chorus for a production of Dido and Aeneas for Brenau University, so that's the next thing on the list.
I'm still doing The Sound of Music. I had my serious doubts about this production but have been pleasantly surprised at how well everyone has pulled it together to make a decent show. And, of course, Mali is precious as always!
I've been doing lots of school shows this month. We're going to perform Seussome Twosome for Mali's 7th birthday and hopefully raise a little money for Capitol City Opera Company.

The Daily Grind and Dracula

2009-02-03T08:28:00.004-05:00

The Reminiscents did a fantastic gig on Saturday night. We sang all our favorite songs for a packed house. I thought people would just come in and out, but they were enjoying it so much, they stayed for the whole 2 hours. What a compliment!
I am thoroughly enjoying singing Dracula with the Atlanta Ballet. It's only 7 minutes at the very end, but it's very difficult music. I'm loving the challenge!

Coming up

2009-01-22T15:21:00.003-05:00

The Reminiscents will be playing a gig at The Daily Grind, on the corner of Piedmont and Sandy Plains in Marietta. We'll be there on Saturday, January 31 from 8 - 10. We'll be singing 2 great sets of music ranging from 1955's Sincerely through 1971's Different Drum and everything in between.
After that, I'll be singing with the Atlanta Ballet for their production of Dracula. It is seven minutes of bone chilling music at the end of the ballet. Gives me nightmares just to practice it at home! Thanks to Michael O'Neal for casting me in this.
Throughout February into the first weekend of March, I will be appearing alongside my oldest daughter in The Sound of Music at Blackwell Playhouse. Mali is playing Gretl in her theatrical debut and I will be playing Mother Abbess.

Feelings of "Alleluia"

2008-12-06T22:24:00.002-05:00

December is off to the races! This first week of December has been a blur of rehearsals and performances, but it isn't over yet. I performed my recital "Alleluia" in Douglasville on Wednesday night. It was quite well attended and the folks there were so kind in welcoming me. Ben and I received a standing ovation and so I got to perform my encore "O Holy Night" which of course is everyone's Christmas favorite.
Last night, I sang at The Festival of the Nativity. What a lovely experience! I appreciated how well organized everything was, but that was nothing compared to how beautiful the nativity sets were. I was moved to tears several times by the beauty of the music and the spirit of Christmas that I felt there. I was also so pleased to see so many friends and family who came to hear me sing. I am always grateful when I am able to share the gifts with which God has so richly blessed me with those around me. It is the reason I love to perform so much!
Tomorrow will be The Michael O'Neal Christmas concert with the Atlanta Symphony Brass Quintet. I just love a good brass quintet! This concert is really great. And the Poulenc Motets are to die for!
Then, I have one more week to prepare for my recital at Ragamuffin Music. I am looking forward to another opportunity to share this recital. I have put a webpage together so ya'll can see the program, hear me singing a snipet of it, and order tickets (www.ambersalleluia.blogspot.com).
As I was putting together the program, I found myself being drawn to music and carols that had to do with Mary and the Baby Jesus, specifically those that speak of Mary's tender feelings toward her child, her amazement at being the mother of this "man, yet very God". I suppose as a mother of three, I can relate to those feelings. I have always been amazed at the miracle of motherhood and am so grateful to be able to hold my babies, sing to them, and see God in their eyes. What a priviledge it is for me to be able to represent Mary in expressing her feelings through the songs on my recital "Alleluia". I hope that everyone I have told about this recital will make an effort to spend next Saturday night with me. I pray that all in the audience will be touched by the beautiful music and that it will truly set the tone for a Christ-filled Christmas. Music is meant to elevate us to a higher level. We can express emotions through music that cannot be felt using mere words. That is why I sing!

December Performances

2008-11-11T13:17:00.002-05:00

It seems I've been neglecting my blog. As there were no performances scheduled in November, I didn't have much to report about my career. But that doesn't mean I'm not working. I was not cast in The Sound of Music at Center Theatre. I was told it was due to my height, or lack of it. Oh well, maybe next time.
Oddly enough, I have just auditioned for The Sound of Music at Blackwell Theatre along with my oldest daughter. It is her first show and I think it would be great fun to perform alongside her in her first musical. She would make a precious Gretel!
I am working hard learning all the music for my upcoming Christmas recitals. It will include the music of Wolf, Kvasnevski, Barber, Mozart, and arrangements of spirituals and carols. I will be performing it 3 times. First, at Douglasville First United Methodist Church on Wednesday, December 3 at 7 PM. There will be a love offering taken at this concert. Second, in part at The Festival of the Nativity (www.festivalofthenativity.com) from 7 - 7:30 PM on Friday, December 5. And lastly, at Ragamuffin Music (www.ragamuffinmusic.com) in Roswell on Saturday, December 13 at 8 PM. I'm most excited about this one as Ragamuffin Music is a lovely little music studio. It is a living room setting that will be beautifully lit with candles. I think it will be a wonderful way to set the tone for your Christmas. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased through the website or by contacting me. Anyone can always feel free to email me at amber.brooke.soprano@gmail.com for more information about anything we're doing.
Michael O'Neal Singers will be performing their annual Christmas concert with the Atlanta Brass on Sunday, December 7 at 3 PM. The Chamber Singers will be performing a beautiful work, the Poulenc Motets. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased through the MOS website (www.mosingers.com). We will also be doing the annual Messiah Sing-a-long on Sunday, December 21 at 3 PM. Tickets are $10 for that.
So, as you can see, we have a lot to look forward to in December!

Coming Soon!

2008-10-07T22:19:00.004-04:00

I just got home from auditioning for The Sound of Music. I was invited to audition for the part of Maria at Center Theatre. I'll let you know if I get it!
Next, I'll be preparing for the remainder of the week to sing at The Paulding County Fall Festival this Saturday. I'll be representing The Reminiscents, trying to get our name out, but I'm singing by myself, doing a 45-minute concert. If you really want to see this, check out www.paulding.com for information.
I'm looking forward to a few more concerts this month. MOS has a concert on Oct. 19. We're currently preparing the Shubert Mass in G and several other works to be sung together with 2 local A-class high school choirs and an orchestra. Should be an exciting concert! Check out www.mosingers.com for information and tickets.
I'm excited to do lots of school shows this month. I'll be performing all the school shows I know this month...A Seussome Twosome, Hansel and Gretel, and The Ballad of the Bremen Band.
On Oct. 23, I'll be performing on the first Dinner and a Diva held at Sugo in Roswell. It is $65 for dinner and a concert of Puccini arias. I'll be singing "O mio babbino", "Quando men vo", and "Che il bel sogno di Doretta". Check www.ccityopera.com for more information and to make reservations.
I don't have anything scheduled yet for November. That leaves open time to rehearse for The Sound of Music if I get it. That opens Nov. 28 and runs through Dec. 28. The calendar can be found at www.atlantajcc.com
December will be jam packed. I'll post more on that later!

Singing Away

2008-09-15T16:44:00.002-04:00

I ended up singing "O mio babbino caro", "Summertime", and "Quando men vo" at the fundraiser for Capitol City Opera. Then, I was "purchased" for $300. The couple that bought me is entitled to a dinner with me and Franco. A second couple offered to match the $300 and I agreed to spend an evening with them as well. I'm glad we could raise so much for the Opera Company.
I had a wonderful experience singing at the ASIS Convention at the Georgia World Congress Center even though it was at the crack of dawn this morning. That place is huge!
Michael agreed that "Glitter and Be Gay" sounds great so I will be singing that next Sunday at Rabun Gap as well as "The Cat Duet" with Karen Lupton. I love going up to the mountains to sing!

Upcoming in September

2008-09-05T18:23:00.004-04:00

I am looking forward to many things this month. First, I'm being auctioned off at a fundraiser for Capitol City Opera. We'll see how much my "O mio babbino caro" is worth? The winner gets to take me to dinner. I hope they realize my husband is coming along and this is not by any means a date. Second, the Michael O'Neal Chamber Singers are returning to the Rabun Gap Music Festival for the second year in a row. I have performed on this music festival almost every year since its inception with one group or another, including one year when they hired me to form my own group. I hired four other singers and put together my "Finales" concert which the audience loved. This year, we're doing our "Laughter is the Best Medicine" concert. I'm trying to decide if I should sing "Simple Joys of Maidenhood" like I did at the concert with the big group in May or if I should try "Glitter and Be Gay". It used to be my best piece but that was before I had a baby 6 months ago. Hopefully, I'll be going up again next year either with The Reminiscents or Chalis. Lastly, The Reminiscents have a terrific gig in Columbus. I'm so excited about getting to really put on our show. We've worked so hard!

The Reminiscents Go To Europe

2008-09-04T22:28:00.003-04:00

I was surprised this week to receive an e-mail from a gentleman in Belgium. He is a deejay who has a radio program which broadcasts throughout Europe. He plays music of the 60's and will be playing The Reminiscents' Demo CD on his program. Hopefully, we can find the same enthusiasm over our music here at home.

The Reminiscents have premiered!

2008-08-26T08:44:00.002-04:00

The Reminiscents had our first performance. It was a great success and we are looking forward to the next one next month. I also have quite a few performances with the Michael O'Neal Singers and Chamber Singers coming up. Check below for the dates.

New Gig for The Reminiscents

2008-08-17T21:05:00.002-04:00

The Reminiscents will be performing at a fundraiser for Children's Miracle Network on Saturday, August 23 between 4PM and 7PM at the Atlanta Marriott Perimeter Center located at 246 Perimeter Center Parkway in Atlanta. Take the Ashford-Dunwoody exit off of I-285. This event is open to the public. Adults $5, Children (6+) $2. Please stop by and see us!

School is on!

2008-08-13T09:10:00.002-04:00

The kids went to school on Monday and I have been hard at work for The Reminiscents. I have posted our demo songs to the right. The link will take you to goear.com to listen to the songs. I'm also working on a separate website just for The Reminiscents (www.thereminiscents.com).
We will have our first gig at Spring Harbor in Columbus, GA on Sept. 23. I'm working on 2 additional gigs for the weekend of Aug. 22-23, so cross your fingers that those will go through and we'll be performing even sooner.

One more week 'til school starts

2008-08-05T13:06:00.000-04:00

I made it through last weekend's performances,even though my house did not. This week I'm just counting down the days until the kids start school on Monday. Then, I can bask in the fact that I have survived my first real summer with my children out of school. I'm looking forward to thoroughly cleaning my house and to having lots of time for singing.

Next week is my last concert of the summer with the Michael O'Neal Summer Singers. We're performing the Durufle Requiem. Then, we start preparing for several other upcoming concerts with Chamber Singers in the fall.

Also still working hard to book gigs for me and Chalis as well as The Reminiscents.

Fundraiser for Capitol City Opera Company

2008-07-26T23:35:00.001-04:00

Last night I sang at a fundraiser for Capitol City Opera Company at the Teaching Museum South. It was music of the 20's. I sang "Bewitched" by Rogers and Hart, "Always" by Irving Berlin, and "Just One of Those Things" by Cole Porter. The audience loved it and asked for an encore, so we quickly thought to sing "God Bless America" by Irving Berlin. It's always a thrill to sing for such an appreciative audience.

Classical Duet Recital

2008-07-24T23:16:00.003-04:00

I am also working with Chalis Pomeroy, Mezzo Soprano, on a classical duet recital. It is all in English and we are looking to have it ready by September.

The Reminiscents

2008-07-24T23:07:00.003-04:00

I am so excited about getting started with The Reminiscents, a girls' trio covering songs of the 50's, 60's, and 70's. Shauna, Donna, and Lana are getting together our press kit this week and will hopefully be ready to start booking gigs within a few weeks. Check us out at www.thereminiscents.com

Where to find Amber Brooke this week

2008-07-13T19:47:00.001-04:00

This week I will be practicing for and performing at Dinner and a Diva. This is a monthly themed concert series which takes place at a local restaurant. This month, July, is French opera. I will be singing The Bell Song and The Flower Duet from Lakme and The Doll Song from Tales of Hoffman. I love to sing from Lakme because I have a costume to wear and, let's face it, who doesn't secretly like to dress up and hit high F's!