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 Barbie is an
accomplished musician, vocalist and songwriter. Drawn to the piano
at the early age of 5, she began playing by ear and eventually took
lessons 3 years later. Throughout high school and college, Barbie
held leading roles in musical theatre productions, studied piano and
voice and was accepted into the prestigious Cornish College of the Arts.
It is at Cornish Barbie was introduced to jazz, and integrated her
background in classical music with the study of jazz voice and piano.
While at Cornish, she studied with notable Northwest pianist Randy
Halberstadt, and jazz vocalists Beth Winter and Jay Clayton. While
in college, Barbie also explored her love of composition, and began
writing songs in various genres.
Following graduation from Cornish, Barbie performed with various
pop/R&B groups in the Northwest (these included Dance Therapy, Cha
Cha Chaos, and 3D), worked as a studio vocalist for clients such as
Microsoft and Westin Hotels, played solo piano in hotels, and began work
on her debut CD.
Currently, Barbie is working regularly throughout the west coast with
her own group, performing original music from her CD, In Love With a
Memory (released 2/28/01). After a sold-out CD Release party
at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley this year, and an extensive summer performance
schedule, she is now taking time out to write for her next release.
Barbie is currently accepting new piano students, and enjoys working
with beginners. Her lessons involve all facets of music, from
theory and ear training, to songs and technique.
For more information, please access her website at http://www.barbieanaka.com
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