“Linda has top shelf talent. Being in her presence feels like rays of rare sunshine.”
- Randy Gelispie, MSU Professors of Jazz
Bringing passion and innovation to her career as a singer, songwriter and teacher, Linda Abar has found expression in a uniquely individual, stylized melding of her varied musical background.
In her first CD, Once Upon A Time, Linda demonstrates her soaring vocal talent. Through the intricate woven melodies and incandescent lyrics of her original compositions, she conveys both daring ingenuity and dedication to her craft. Influenced by a multitude of genres, some of her songs on this recording have been compared to the jazz piano compositions of Vince Guaraldi, to the smooth vocal expression of Sade, and to the rich string arrangements of chamber music. What is most evident about this recording, however, is the fascinating feeling it evokes—at once relaxing and energizing.
Linda agilely performs folk, jazz and classical, drawing imaginatively on elements of Celtic and New Age. The result is an intuitive blend of the varied music she has followed in her lifetime of study and performance.
From the time as a child when she performed backyard concerts with friends and sang in church and schools, music has been an integral part of Linda’s life. A graduate of Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in vocal music education and theory composition, she has acquired a wealth of diverse professional experience. She has been a resident with the Ten Pound Fiddle in East Lansing, MI, and has performed on the main stage at the Montreaux Jazz Festival. She also recorded as a guest artist on Thom Jayne and the Nomads’ Road Trip and on Max Raines Songs of Forgiveness CDs. Linda also sings throughout Mid-Michigan as a church soloist.
As a music instructor, Linda has made many discoveries studying body mechanics through Alexander Technique, Yoga and Pilates. She teaches a natural way of singing that can be used for any musical style. Intuitive and innovative in her approach, she applies her individualized instruction to draw out the creative potential of each student, addressing the mental and emotional aspects of becoming an artist and performer.
Linda began offering voice lessons as a college student and eventually opened Howling Dogs Music Studio where she now offers private instruction. She is in her fifth year as a music specialist for the Montessori Children’s House of Lansing, and she has taught elementary music in Catholic schools. Many of her students have gone on to professional careers in music.
Linda Abar sings and plays piano in a style evocative of Joni Mitchell or Tori Amos. Her lyrics are both personal and opaque but it is her melodies and vocal purity that will bring you back again and again to her music.
Mike Stratton, WLNZ, Lansing
Linda has created a beautiful CD, straight from the heart, soulful, gorgeous vocals with great intonation and control. I love the range of tunes, in a folk vein but influenced by world music and jazz, with such an uplifting message. Her ballads knock me out, just gorgeous! I will listen again and again.
Sunny Wilkinson, Jazz recording artist
Linda Abar sings with a unique blend of purity of sound, excellent musicianship and sincerity. She's also one of the most sensitive musicians I have ever worked with. I love to hear her sing.
Rich Illman - Lansing Symphony Orchestra, Thom Jayne and the Nomads
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