The life of a creative individual, especially musicians, often seems to require being perpetually ‘on’. But what happens when the stage transforms from a place of joy into a source of fear? To explore this common issue of performance anxiety among musicians, we spoke with Dr. Jessica Quiñones, a specialist in psychotherapy for musicians. NB:
Written by Mira Ormala ABBA – a childhood inspiration Having been born and grown up in Scandinavia, I had plenty of childhood memories of singing along to ABBA on long car journeys to the countryside or dancing around the living room to some of their disco classics. Growing up in Helsinki, Finland, I spoke both
Founded by artistic director D.F., Shen Yun is a performing arts company dedicated to reviving traditional Chinese culture. The shows offer an immersive experience featuring traditional dancing, short skits, and musical performances. Each year’s touring shows present entirely new storylines and scores, ensuring a fresh experience for returning audiences. The Shen Yun orchestra is unique,
They are the most recognizable band in classical crossover music, with over thirty million albums sold, hit songs, tours, collaborations with industry legends, and a truly international fanbase. But as Il Divo celebrates their 20th anniversary, Urs Bühler shared that they are not dwelling on the past but instead focusing on the present and future:
On March 21, 2024, Tennessee marked a historic moment as it became the first state in the United States to enact specific protections for musicians against artificial intelligence (AI). The newly passed ELVIS Act, or the Ensuring Likeness Voice and Image Security Act, signifies a groundbreaking stride in Tennessee’s legislative landscape. This act is paramount
As artists, we are constantly urged to adapt, to “pay our dues,” to give our art away without compensation, all while wearing a smile for the privilege of being born with talent. While the debate between nature and nurture regarding talent persists, the shift to digital streaming from physical albums has dealt a significant blow
Author of “Two Lives to a Destiny” Edited by Vaughn Harbin. Flashbacks Parts 1 through 5 recounted… • I began playing piano at age 30, and got very good at it, very fast. • Five months later, played Moonlight Sonata, and my own sonata called “The Dream”, at my first recital.• Traumatized by this event,
Why Creators Need Time Off Too For creators the pressure to constantly release new material can be overwhelming. Whether you’re a musician, artist, writer, or any other type of creative professional, it’s easy to feel guilty if you are not working non-stop. While passion and dedication are undoubtedly crucial for success in the creative world,
Jonathan Cilia Faro is a tenor who is comfortable in his own shoes. He began his now twenty-eight-year career as a teenager, and his music has taken him from a provincial life in Sicily to become a “citizen of the world” and a proud “self-made artist.” He has been in the military, fought cancer, sold
Timothy Schwarz is an acclaimed violinist known for his solid technique and considerable flair. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to championing American composers, and his latest album, The Living American, continues this tradition. CCM: What inspired you to record The Living American, and why did you choose to focus on contemporary American composers?
Get ready to be captivated by the enchanting melodies of Alexis Ffrench, an extraordinary composer, pianist, and producer. With an impressive track record of over half a billion streams, Ffrench released “Peace” and was one of the performers at His Majesty’s Coronation Concert. Listeners will be able to see Alexis live this Christmas for a
Review and pictures thanks to Kevin Adams Russell Watson took to the stage at Winchester Cathedral on 31st March 2023 on the opening night of his magnificent buildings tour. The Godfather of classical crossover delivered two sets from his repertoire of favorite songs. He was accompanied by world famous pianist Mike Moran. Set list included
When John Riesen initially got the call for America’s Got Talent, he thought it was some kind of scam. “I got this message that’s like, ‘Would you please call this number immediately? It’s about an urgent matter in regards to America’s Got Talent.’ and I’m like, ‘Yeah, right.’” Thankfully his gut told him to call
If you listen to the “This is John Riesen” playlist on Spotify you will find an extensive mix of standards, Broadway show tunes, and new works. His voice rings out with unabashed passion, thrilling in its heights during operatic selections, and has recently adopted a more gentle crooning when required. John was a regional finalist
Gregory Harrington’s new album “Live from the Irish Repertory Theatre” begins with a few hesitant notes on the violin and then grows into a rousing jig. Throughout the album he is often heard playing unaccompanied, letting the instrument and emotion shine without other adornments. It is this confidence and skill that has led Gregory to
Author of “Two Lives to a Destiny” Edited by Vaughn Harbin. Flashback • Let’s bullet point this… • I began playing piano at 30 years old and got very good at it, very fast. • 5 months later, played Moonlight Sonata and my own sonata called, “The Dream”, at my first recital. • Traumatized by
Acclaimed violinist, TikTok sensation, and rising star in classical music, Esther Abrami, released a visually stunning new video for her beautifully glistening adaptation of Walking In The Air from ‘The Snowman’™. The video celebrates the iconic Christmas classic’s 40th anniversary, with the track personally arranged for Esther by the film’s original composer Howard Blake OBE. In a fitting tribute to the nostalgic festive family film, Esther
Classical Crossover Magazine is honored to join forces with ClassicalXOver4U to present “A Crossover Christmas.” The concert will help raise funds for sick children and their families by raising money for the Wallace & Gromit Grand Appeal. Donate Now! Crossover stars already announced in the line-up include Holland’s Got Talent winner Amira Willighagen, Welsh soprano
Classical Crossover Magazine is thrilled to announce that West End tenor, Paul Ettore Tabone, will be joining our network of experts. Paul, who has been nicknamed “The Tenor from Oz,” has had success on the classical stage, singing with the Pavarotti foundation, and has starred in over 1,800 performances of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of
Eighteen-year-old soprano Amira Willighagen taught herself to sing after listening to videos of opera on Youtube. “I have a very musically talented family. So they were always playing some sort of instrument, and I always felt like the odd one out,” Amira tells us that classical music was a part of her upbringing. “I guess
“Ugh, not ANOTHER new artist to follow and support.” I can promise you that phrase accompanied by the sigh of the weary has never come out of my mouth as an editor of Classical Crossover Magazine. In fact, it’s exactly the opposite. There is a feeling of excitement, often accompanied by goosebumps and the immediate
Classical crossover Ayenn Legagneur Stark, pianist, and composer combines personally meaningful covers and original material in his 2021 album, “Me and My Piano.” CCM: How would you describe your sound for new fans? Ayenn Stark: I would say my music is Classical Crossover with a chamber orchestra feel. CCM: Tell us about your new album
Inspiration and collaboration meet with the release of “Sing Again (Canto Ancora)” from crossover tenor Jonathan Cilia Faro and Christian contemporary artist Michael W. Smith. CCM: Why did you choose this piece – what does it mean to you? Jonathan Cilia Faro: For the first time in my career, the song chose me. Michael and
Every great story needs a voice to elevate it beyond the page. For 40 years, Felicia Farerre has been using her pure soprano to do just that. Her voice has been featured in 300: Rise of an Empire, and promotion for Disney’s Maleficent. Through her work with the Taliesin Orchestra, Felicia’s vocals and lyrics have
Nicolás Manservigi is a storyteller. Hailing from Argentina he has written novels, a film script, and then there is the way he uses his voice. It’s not only the distinctive baritone color and vocal agility, but the way Nicolás paints pictures with his emotional command of the material that touches hearts. Natasha Barbieri: Nicolas, you
Sarah Brightman is the real deal. With thirty million albums sold, she is the best-selling soprano in the world. She was also the muse for Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera” and created the iconic role of Christine Daaé. Sarah has performed at the Beijing Olympics to over five billion viewers. She is also
Billy Andrews is “The Dark Tenor.” The American singer created the personality to make classical music more accessible to the general public and his unique combination of classical and rock has made him a success in the charts and on-stage. ‘The Dark Tenor’ continues to tread new territory with 3D printing for instruments, AI, and
A young girl walks out onto an empty stage. The audience is waiting expectantly, equally ready to cheer or deride. The powerful voice that breaks the silence is so unexpected in one so young that the judges rise to their feet. The America’s Got Talent ‘Golden Buzzer’ moment is one that stays with you. “I
Forever Tenors made up of Adam Lacey and Rob Durkin, is one of the most exciting classical crossover duos to emerge in the UK. The friends have recently recorded their debut album “Surrender” and have a tour set for the Fall. Learn more about them before you watch them live. Natasha Barbieri: When did music
Australian composer Sophie Hutchings new solo piano release “Echoes in the Valley” is out October 29th. Learn more about her inspiration, and composition style in our Spotlight feature. Natasha Barbieri: What place did music have for you growing up? Sophie Hutchings: It was kind of everything. There was always music blaring in my family home
Crossover is the name of the game for Amy, Hayley and Julia. Together they form “Bella Popera” a soprano girl group whose repertoire ranges from standards like ‘Nella Fantasia’ to a new arrangement of Miley Cyrus’ “Wrecking Ball.” Natasha Barbieri: When did you ladies meet and first begin singing together? Julia (Bella Popera): It’s been
For the first time ever, readers can purchase a physical copy of Classical Crossover Magazine We are very thrilled to feature the lovely Nadia Edie as the cover star of our Spring 2021 issue. Nadia has performed in numerous roles on stage and was featured on this season of BBC One’s The Voice. In other
Paul Ettore Tabone is known as The Tenor From Oz. He has performed on stage in opera and musical theatre roles and recently released his debut crossover album, ” This is Me.” Natasha Barbieri: Tell our readers a little bit about the special moments of your childhood? I think the most special moment of my
