Serpentine Arborvitae
I grew up physically in Brooklyn and musically in the jazz clubs of New York City where experimental music thrives. I was very much determined to stretch the limits of vocal improvisation as far as I could possibly want to go. In 1979 I was introduced to the god-father of free jazz master saxophonist Ornette Coleman. Ornette became my mentor. He was working with his group PrimeTime back then and on days when they rehearsed the building would levitate, I swear!! Ornette produced and arranged the music we collaborated on for my concert debut at The Public Theater in1980. We also recorded several masters that I plan to release sometime this year. After that concert my evolution took a deep turn inward, as I sought to establish my own musical identity. Beyond jazz and the mainstream pop/dance music of the day, I lookied to language itself, pulling apart all shape of syllable and syntax. I gave myself my name and I gave my voice over to a feminine vortex of galactic proportion. I now realize that I was pulled by a yearning that has swelled for decades amongst the collective mind throughout the world. An attunment to the sacred feminine on the rise to re-establlsh balance upon the earth.
My self-produced solo debut in 1993 “ The First Coil“ launched me into the 'goddess music' scene where I found many fans and a very enthusiastic audience.
The follow-up in 1995 "Rock the Goddess" attracted Lifetime Television and I was commissioned to compose the soundtrack for a documentary on the Intimate Portrait Series. It was narrated by Anjelica Huston and entitiled "Witches". I became very identified with both the historical and psychological aspects of women's oppression. It more or less took over my creative focus and my next CD " Darker Than Black" was both the pinnacle of that focus and a big failure at the box office! Not without merit though and in small circles it is still appreciated!
I was performing frequently in NYC yet I felt the time had come for me tor leave the comfort of my country. I moved to Israel in 1996. where I recorded
" 'Temple Of The Heart " . In Tel Aviv I had access to so many wonderful musicians from all over the world. Israel is filled with so much talent, and it is nothing like the " star syndrome " we have here in the US. The three years I spent there were transforming in ways that were not expected.
Upon my return to the US in 2000, I lived in south Forida , where I was introduced to the teachings of Ernest Holmes. Deeply inspired by his philosopy and visionary writings I wanted to compose songs to express his priniciples and did on “ DREAM WITH ME " released in 2006 .
In 2005 I had already experienced the transforming power of Kirtan and recorded "MANTRA AMERICA".
That CD was put on hold while I was recording
" Dream With Me " but I have finally released it this year!! The practise of yoga has been a major clarifying force for most of my life. I believe yoga has prepared me for more things in life than I am aware of.
To be continued...
Check back again soon for more!