Josephine Tam and I rocked da house at Lulworth Gardens on August 11th. I explored the depth of characters of Cherubino (The Marriage of Figaro), Dido (Dido and Aeneas) and Carmen (Carmen, of course!), while Josephine (what an amazing performer!) wowed the house at interval with ‘Girl from 14G’ – what a virtuoso piece! We then did another virtuoso turn with the Flower Duet from Lakme – with Josephine not just playing, but singing the soprano part. “You won’t see that in the opera house!”

Residents loved it, and asked for more, so we are returning for a Christmas Concert on December 21.

On 7th July, 2013, Greg McLeod and I, accompanied by Stephen Hirst, sang for the Valerio Daniel De Simoni Association’s annual fundraising event – an afternoon of sumptuous food, wine and song at Pasta Emilia in Surry Hills.

The co-founder of the association, Martina Palombi, declared our performance “magical.” Our Italian audience in particular loved the renditions of Ave Maria, Una voce poco fa (Barber of Seville), and La ci darem la mano (Marriage of Figaro). Such a wonderful event, and a great teaser for the Bondi Public School event, Winter Songs.

On 16th August at 4pm, I sang for residents of Beresford Hall – an hour of arias including Mozart, Rossini, Meyerbeer, Bizet and Schubert. The talented Stephen Hirst accompanied, and included his own excellent rendition of Scott Joplin. Residents clearly enjoyed every moment, with many commenting to me afterwards that it was ‘beautiful’:

“Beautiful voice and a beautiful personality. And I love your sparkly shoes!” Stefan

Residents left with great smiles on their faces, and Marica Preda, the Diversional Therapist, declared it “Wonderful.”

I have been invited back for two more performances this year – on October 4th and December 20th. Watch this space!

Winter Songs at Bondi Public School was a fabulous night of singing! Greg McLeod (Baritone) and I joined forces with Luda Tees’ cello duo, Aurora Strings, and piano accompanists Stephen Hirst to create an evening of magic and fun.

But don’t let me do all the talking, here’s some audience feedback:

“Many thanks for last night, it was such a great night. It was the first time I have heard you sing solo opera and it was magnificent. So impressive it really blew me away. The way you made the pieces come alive with humour and story telling was wonderful.” Julia, Bronte

“Eliane’s performance (melo/drama/comedy/introductions) was magnificent and Eliane and Greg
are a great act that surely has a great future.” Roger, South Coast

“We had a wonderful time.” James, Canterbury

“That wasn’t a performance, it was a tour de force!” Bernard, Canberra

“Oh bravo it was sensational. In fact it’s one of my favourite nights of the year.” Penny, Bondi

“Wow wow wee” Marc, Bondi

“Thanks Eliane for such any enjoyable evening for all of us lot.” Howard, Bondi

“Thanks so much to everyone for all of your efforts! What a fantastic and special night.” Sonia, Bondi

Eliane thank you so much for singing at our 3 major social events at Bondi Public this year. The parents, staff and guests were truly overwhelmed and delighted and this ensured repeat invitations to perform, culminating in 2 dedicated evenings “A night at the Opera” and “Opera under the stars”. A touch of class and a voice like an angel, it was a pleasure to become lost in the beauty of your voice and stage presence. Your reputation ensured each evening was increasingly successful from a social and fundraising perspective and so many people are asking about the next opportunity to hear you sing. Soon I hope! Best wishes in your professional career, I have no doubt it will be a huge success. Everyone should be given an opportunity to enjoy a voice like that.

Penny Beitzel, P&C Vice President

Dear Eliane, thank you for the unique ambiance you created at Galilee School’s recent Art Show evening. Through your singing it became an evening of glamour and warmth while everyone listened to your delightful (and powerful) voice.    For most parents, this was their first experience of opera, and their feedback is that it was the best function our school has ever had and will she be back for the next!!!

Belinda, P&F President, Galilee Catholic Primary School

A wonderful week of Schubert Ave Marias. One sung at the wedding of an old friend, Stephen Long, and his new wife, Kate Ryan. St Canece’s Church in Roslyn Street, Kings Cross on November 16. A beautiful, beautiful church, with great acoustics for a singer. Described as ‘absolutely beautiful’ and ‘perfect’.

Then, last night on November 23, the inauguration of our school’s pizza oven, Greg McLeod and I sang the Schubert Ave Maria in duet form.

I’ve posted a recording of me singing both the Schubert and the Gounod/Bach Ave Marias on this site. Recorded by my dear friend, Andre Kaman, who has opened a studio in Marrickvill. Please feel free to listen to these recordings, and let me know what you think!