DeAndre Simmons (30 minute presentation)

Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 5:00 pm (30 minute presentation)

Location: Community Music Center David Beasley Campbell Auditorium

Free (registration requested)

Children Age 8 and up welecome. This is a 30 minute presentation. For the full recital with reception, see this link.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as bass DeAndre Simmons presents "The Negro Speaks of Rivers": a presentation of traditional spirituals, songs and arias by African American composers, made possible by Opera In the Park Portland, The Community Music Center, Inc. (non-profit), Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Center Powered by YOUth.

With his rich, resonant voice, DeAndre will bring to life these soulful and deeply moving pieces, showcasing the beauty and emotional depth of the African-American contribution to the wide tapestry of American music and culture. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a captivating performance that celebrates history, heritage, and the enduring power of music.

Artists

Called a "class act" by the Los Angeles Times, American bass DeAndre Simmons is recognized for his velvety voice, incisive musicianship, and captivating stage presence. He has appeared on musical theater, operatic, symphonic, and recital stages in all 50 states and across four continents. His most recent portrayal of Sweeney Todd in Sondheim’s masterpiece SWEENEY TODD was voted Top Ten Best Theatre Performances in San Diego. Upcoming performances include the Count in LE NOZZE DI FIGARO, First Soldier in SALOME and Porgy in PORGY AND BESS. Career highlights include performing Mozart's Requiem in the presence of Pope John Paul II, being one of only 10 musicians invited to participate in a concert for Nelson Mandela, and singing for seven US Presidents — from Richard Nixon to Barack Obama. https://www.deandresimmons.com/ (instagram @DeAndresVoice)

DeAndre will be joined by Portland-based pianist and vocal coach, Claire Forstman. Claire is currently in her second year as a member of the Resident Artist studio at Portland Opera. In the ’24-’25 season, she will be the principal pianist for the company’s production of FALSTAFF, play orchestral keyboards for Paul Moravec’s THE SHINING, and lead the studio’s scenes program and aria showcase as Music Director. Last season, she served as a repetiteur for Renegade Opera’s workshop of the revue-style AMERICAN PATRIOTS and Opera Bend’s production of LA TRAVIATA, as well as being a regular collaborator with the Portland Symphonic Chorus and an accompanist for OPERA IN THE PARK Portland and Portland’s Opera on Tap. https://claireforstman.com/