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Andrea Miller

"A brilliant young singer" - Al Jarreau

About Me

The worn edges of this small photograph hint at its age, yet the sentiment captured within remains unwavering. In the image, Miller stands beside her father dressed in a vibrant red gown. Her father, Joe Miller, standing tall and poised, plays the clarinet under the robust lights of an orchestra.

A cherished memento, this picture once resided in her father's wallet until his passing in 2022. Now, Miller carries it in her own wallet, a poignant reminder of the fatherly advice she received as a child: “Do what you love and do what you're good at, and hopefully, they are the same thing.”

This mantra has guided Miller since the age of four when her journey as a sought-after jazz singer in Los Angeles began. From the confines of her parents' living room to grand concert halls and intimate jazz clubs worldwide, she has lent her soulful voice to jazz standards, soul, and R&B, sharing stages with icons like Al Jarreau and Michael Franks.

Acknowledging her father as the catalyst for this journey, Miller also credits her mother for helping her overcome shyness through activities like ballet, gymnastics, and swimming. It was only when she discovered singing that her shyness faded, unveiling her true passion and dream.

Growing up surrounded by an eclectic mix of music genres, thanks to her father's diverse musical taste, Miller found her way to the theater at the age of 11. Her audition for “Annie” marked a breakthrough, catching the attention of Dr. Myra Brand, head of music at Western Oregon College, and setting the stage for years of meticulous training.

Under Brand's guidance, Miller honed her operatic skills, mastering breath control, voice resonance, articulation, and more. Despite assuming she was an alto, she discovered her potential as a first soprano, showcasing her remarkable vocal range at a young age.

As her musical journey progressed, Miller's mother became her dedicated supporter, facilitating her participation in competitions and shuttling her to lessons and auditions. Winning the Oregon State Championship Classical Music competition at 15, Miller reached a turning point at 17 when she gained admission to USC's prestigious Bachelor of Fine Arts Conservatory program.

The emotional transition from Salem, Oregon, to USC marked a significant moment for Miller and her parents, signaling a parting of ways. Despite the challenges, Miller thrived at USC, reaching the pinnacle of her musical theater prowess by graduation.

However, a serendipitous encounter with jazz, soul, and R&B after university led Miller to a transformative realization. Liberated from the structured world of opera and musical theater, she embraced a new form of self- expression, discovering her authentic voice.

Navigating the uncertainties of post-graduation life, Miller drew on her experience working for a concert promoter, representing acts like Celine Dion and The Rolling Stones. To transition to a full-time singer, she took unconventional measures, renting out her bedroom to save money.

Joining a working band playing classic R&B and soul, Miller's skills from opera training gradually gave way to a voice that became uniquely her own. Yet, the monotony of pop and R&B led her to a jazz open mic night that changed her trajectory.

At The Money Tree, a historic jazz venue near Warner Bros. Studios, Miller's rendition of “Round Midnight” captivated the audience and musicians alike. This pivotal moment, akin to putting on Cinderella's slipper, marked the beginning of her jazz journey.

Guided by drummer Frank Wilson, Miller delved into the nuances of jazz, learning to scat and unlocking artistic freedom. Wilson's mentorship culminated in Miller's first album and solidified her passion for jazz, prompting her to immerse herself in the genre.

Miller's background in working as a secretary for a concert promoter just out of university proved invaluable. That job later taught her how to navigate the complexities of securing gigs, negotiating contracts, and managing the business side of her career. Watching those major concert acts taught her success transcends pure talent. Miller learned the importance of connecting with the audience on an emotional level.

While her singing technique is lauded for its flawlessness, Miller's ability to interpret lyrics with emotional acuity sets her apart. Each song becomes a vessel for shared emotions, connecting her with the audience on a profound level.

Miller's journey, from a young performer in “Annie” to opening for renowned artists and performing on international stages, epitomizes her dedication, sacrifice, and passion. In the end, her goal remains simple yet profound:

“I just want to sing,” Miller will tell anyone who cares to listen. And they do.

www.AndreaMillerSings.com

Written by Tim Jones