Eric Stern (born June 9, 1971 in Philadelphia,PA)[1] 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.[2] He also performs as a soloist, as well as with the Eric Stern Trio. Stern, with Vagabond Opera, has appeared on NPR[3] and performed at the Kennedy Center,[4] the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco,[5]Joe's Pub in New York City.[6]
Career
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.[7]
In 2002, Stern founded the group Vagabond Opera, known for their blend of eclectic musical styles, including German cabaret, Klezmer, and jazz.[3][7] The band released four albums until their hiatus in 2015.[8] With the band, Stern also wrote, composed and performed the 2010 opera Queen of Knives, in collaboration with Wanderlust Circus.[9][10]
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.[14]
Stern currently works as the Events Coordinator and Cultural Arts Ambassador for Eastside Jewish Commons, a nonprofit in Portland, Oregon.[15]
Awards
ASCAP Concert Division Panel award recognizing creative contributions to American music (September 2011).
