Two years ago, Christmas was forever changed for my family – the meaning of the gift of life more evident to us than we realized before.  At 11:17am, the morning of December 14, 2007, my Grandfather called me with the news that my Mother had unexpectedly died in her sleep.  In some ways I am still in shock - She was more dear to me than any words can truly convey, being a source of strength and wisdom, my mentor in kindness, my first vocal coach… and my friend.  As I said at her funeral, my first real memory is of her singing to me.  Some of the most resonant memories in my childhood are of creating music with her… putting feelings to sound with our voices.  These moments, as are their memories, were and are truly magical.

When my family asked that I sing at Mom’s funeral, I was truly honored… but I knew I would never be able to get through that performance.  The only time in my life I broke down in tears during a performance was during a Mother’s Day duet with her – this request was beyond me.  Instead, I offered to record a piece that we had performed together many times and the one I consider our favorite Christmas duet.  The following version was recorded the night before our final goodbyes, and I hope it may bring some warmth to you on this Christmas:

“Star Bright”
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