​Andra Velis Simon

I have had the pleasure of music directing and playing everything from children's theatre to murder musicals, neo-classical musicals to punk rock, and chamber opera to post-apocalyptic plays.  I am a confident and collaborative pianist with decades of experience playing a multitude of music styles.

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I consider myself a storyteller first and foremost.  I believe the music is part of the text.  My goal is to help performers tie together their acting and singing choices, by giving music notes from a standpoint of furthering the action.  That said, I ensure singers are employing healthy vocal technique at all times.

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As a pit conductor, I specialize in small ensembles and conducting from the piano.  I have a great deal of experience with pit reductions, and enjoy making a smaller pit ensemble sound like a larger group.

 

My work as an adapter and arranger of musicals for actor-musicians has been recognized across the country.  My actor-muso productions have ranged from Romantic period music and operettas to country-western inspired pieces and contemporary rock.  In all cases, professional quality sheet music is created on Sibelius and provided as PDFs.

 

I believe in adapting around the talent.  My vocal, harmonic and instrumental arrangements can be built entirely around the performers' strengths.  This includes creating vocal arrangements that recognize trans singers and GNC performers. 

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Diversity, equity, inclusion, and access are of paramount importance.  I am committed to working with companies that are moving proactively towards the changes needed in our field.  If we work together on a project, I will insist on inclusive hiring onstage, backstage, and in the pit. 

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