Eric Stern is an American vocalist, accordionist, composer, arranger, and pianist based in Portland, Oregon, best known as the founder and artistic director of the band Vagabond Opera.[1] He also performs as a soloist, as well as with the Eric Stern Trio. Stern, with Vagabond Opera, has appeared on NPR[2] and performed at the Kennedy Center,[3] the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco,[4] Joe's Pub in New York City.[5]
Eric Stern | |
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Born | citation needed] Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US | June 9, 1971 [
Genres | Opera, Cabaret, Jazz, Bohemian |
Occupation(s) | Musician, multi-instrumentalist, arranger, composer, songwriter |
Instrument(s) | Vocals, piano, accordion |
Years active | 2002–present |
Website | ericsternevents.com |
Stern was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in June 1971 and trained as a vocalist at the Delaware Valley Opera Company. At the age of 21, Stern decided to pursue writing and moved to Paris, returning to the U.S., and to music, a year and a half later.[6]
In 2002, Stern founded the group Vagabond Opera, known for their blend of eclectic musical styles, including German cabaret, Klezmer, and jazz.[2][6] The band released four albums until their hiatus in 2015.[7] With the band, Stern also wrote, composed and performed the 2010 opera Queen of Knives, in collaboration with Wanderlust Circus.[8][9]
Stern has recorded and performed with a variety of musical acts including The Decemberists,[10] Balkan Beat Box, Unwoman, Pink Martini, and DeVotchka.[11] In 2011, Stern composed the score for the Tears of Joy Puppet Theatre's production of Pinocchio.[12]
In March 2015, Stern's independent production company, Hungry Opera Machine, debuted its first opera at the Alberta Rose Theatre: Flour, Salt, & Moonbeams. It was well-received by critics.[13]
Stern currently works as the Events Coordinator and Cultural Arts Ambassador for Eastside Jewish Commons, a nonprofit in Portland, Oregon.[14]
ASCAP Concert Division Panel award recognizing creative contributions to American music (September 2011).