Andra Velis Simon
Videos and Sound Clips
Here are a few clips from pieces I have arranged, played, conducted, and/or music directed.
All material is for reference purposes only, and is not to be reproduced, recreated or redistributed in any way. Thank you.
Northlight Theatre's Songs for Nobodies
In this 2021 one-woman show, Bethany Thomas played five divas, including Billie Holiday. I created arrangements for the band based on extant recordings, and conducted from piano.
Next to Normal at Writers Theatre
Keely Vasquez singing I Miss the Mountains from this 2019 production directed by David Cromer. I music directed the show, and conducted from the piano.
Firebrand Theatre's LIZZIE
Jacquelyne Jones singing If You Knew, from Firebrand's inaugural production in 2017. Recorded at Chicago Tribune studios. I music directed the show and accompany the video.
A Year with Frog and Toad, Chicago Children's Theatre
I music directed this 2017 production, and created new instrumental reductions for a cast of actor-musicians.
Two promo clips; second clip at :45 includes me on piano.
Olney Theatre's My Fair Lady
The Rain in Spain from Olney Theatre Center's 2017 production of My Fair Lady, music directed by Christopher Youstra. I was the pianist and conductor for an 11-piece pit orchestra.
American Idiot, The Hypocrites
I music-directed this entirely actor-muso production (meaning the cast played all instruments; there was no dedicated band) with The Hypocrites in 2015.
Each year, the Chicago theatre community comes together to create a benefit CD for Season of Concern. In 2016, Firebrand Theatre was invited by producer Eugene Dizon to cover Sara Bareilles and Ingrid Michaelson's Winter Song. Harmony France and Danni Smith are on vocals. I music directed and accompanied on piano, ukelele and glockenspiel.
I accompanied Jennifer T. Grubb on a children's CD, Songs for Tots, including Goodnight, My Someone from The Music Man.
One of my favorite experiences at Columbia College Chicago was music directing Floyd Collins. This is a recording of our band's exit music for the show, recorded from the drum kit by the wonderful and multi-talented Nick Davio.