LINDA EDER with Love from Linda
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Linda Eder: With Love from Linda
Showcasing one of the greatest voices of our time, Linda Eder’s diverse repertoire spans Broadway, Standards, Pop, Country, and Jazz. When she performs “live” in concert, it is amazing to experience the ease with which she moves back and forth from one genre to another as if she were gifted with the vocal ability to perform each genre as well as all the others.
Born in Tucson, Arizona and raised in Brainerd, Minnesota, Eder began her career right out of high school singing all around her home state, and she eventually landed a gig at Harrah’s Casino in Atlantic City, New Jersey. But it was her appearance on the 1987 season of Star Search, during which she won for an unprecedented 12 straight weeks, which attracted the attention of audiences and record companies alike.
Eder launched her recording career in 1991 with her self-titled debut album and soon established a vital niche as America’s most popular and acclaimed new interpreter of Pop, Standard and Theatrical genres. She released two more solo albums before starring in the Broadway production of Jekyll & Hyde beginning on April 28, 1997. As the tragic character “Lucy” in this new musical, Eder blew the roof off New York City’s Plymouth Theatre eight times a week as she belted out her signature songs “Someone Like You” and “A New Life.” Her Broadway debut, for which she was rewarded with a Drama Desk nomination, sent her already rapidly rising star blazing across the sky securing her a spot as one of America’s most beloved singers and dynamic “live” performers. Stephen Holden of The New York Times wrote, “What do we mean when we use the word perfection? The question arises every time I watch the pop singer Linda Eder….”
After leaving Broadway, Eder’s recording career continued “full steam ahead” with her discography to date being comprised of 18 solo recordings and numerous musical recordings. She focused on mostly Broadway, Standard and Pop music for many years, which highlighted her abundant vocal gifts as well as her skill for delivering dramatic,
emotionally resonant interpretations of mostly familiar songs while making them her own. Her highly successful first Christmas album, Christmas Stays The Same, is a perfect example of the way she is able to transform and interpret best loved Christmas music and make it her own without compromising the original.
In 2008, Eder stepped outside the box and her familiar “wheelhouse” to record The Other Side of Me, a Country Pop blend of contemporary music, which included a song written by Linda herself. And, in June, 2010, she and Clay Aiken covered Roy Orbison’s “Crying” as a duet on Aiken’s album, Tried & True
In 2013, Linda established her own record company under the name Tressamail, Inc., and in that same year she released her first recording on that newly established label, the highly acclaimed Christmas Where You Are. This CD features 12 tracks – six selected by her fans via social media and two originals from Eder herself. It also featured a unique twist on the classic, ”Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” which Linda rewrote and recorded with her teenage son, Jake. It was to represent a classic mother-son debate over going outside to play in a snow storm.
Eder has released two additional recordings on her own record label. In 2014, she released her first ever “live” CD, LINDALIVE, which was recorded in Saratoga, New York before a wildly enthusiastic crowd. In November, 2015, she released Retro Volume 1. This recording features 14 tracks written by Frank Wildhorn, Jack Murphy, Jason Howland, Leslie Bricusse, Nan Knighton, Baird Jarman, and Maury Yeston. It is filled with the kind of lush, sweeping Broadway-esque melodies that first introduced Linda’s voice to her many fans.
In 2018, Linda recorded her 17th solo album, a Broadway/Standards CD entitled If You See Me, with music for the title track written by her son, Jake Wildhorn, and lyrics written by Linda herself. She has also put out her first “behind the scenes” DVD entitled The Other Side compiled from personal moments at
work and at home over a three year period and culminating with the making of her new CD (If You See Me).
She has appeared on television numerous times. TrailMIX, her prime time Animal Planet special about singers with a passion for horses, was a natural extension of her love for animals and featured Linda interviewing fellow recording artists and performers Sheryl Crow, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Irish tenor Ronan Tynan, Rob Thomas, and Aerosmith’s Joe Perry. She has been featured on numerous PBS television concert specials including Clay Aiken’s Tried & True, Hallelujah Broadway, Linda Eder: The PBS Concert, Best of Broadway: Broadway The Leading Ladies, Best of Broadway: The Love Songs, Jim Brickman Plays The Disney Songbook, and more. Her 2001 Holiday
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Concert, Christmas Stays the Same, was broadcast on Bravo TV and continues to be a popular selling DVD.
The concert stage remains the mainstay of Eder’s career. She has performed for soldout crowds in venues across the country and throughout Europe. She has performed at many prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, The Palace Theatre, Radio City Music Hall, Wolftrap, New York City’s Town Hall, Davies Hall, among many others. Always touring in great company, her collaborators have included the late Oscar-winning composer and pianist Marvin Hamlisch, Emmy and Grammy winner Michael Feinstein, and conductor of the Boston Pops Keith Lockhart. Eder is happiest on stage singing for her audiences and spreading the joy she exudes.
Coming Soon to MPAC
FEBRUARY
Olivia Acosta
Grade 12; West Morris Central High School; Nominated by Mark Stingle
Olivia Acosta has been in the choral program for the past three years and become a leader in every way. She is our VP in charge of Social Media, a leader of the Alto 2 section, in the Concert Choir (auditioned group after school), the co-leader of the Treble A Cappella group, the Loreleis, has been accepted into Morris Area Honor Choir three years and All-State for the past two years. She is also a featured National Anthem singer at many sporting events at West Morris Central, and she has participated as a lead or featured role for four years in the schoolʼs drama program. All of this is on top of being an outstanding student in the IB program and performing as a professional artist after her appearance on The Voice as a freshman. Her humble nature is what stands out and makes her such an excellent choral singer, and a joy to have in the classroom.
Gloria Bakinahe
Grade 8; Mount Olive Middle School; Nominated by Joanna Scarangello
Gloria is an outstanding young woman who absolutely shines vocally and academically. Gloria is a true leader in the choral ensemble, as she is always on task, focused, and working hard to support her peers with her singing. She is naturally a gifted singer, which is only enhanced by her admirable work ethic and desire to improve and be at her best at all times. Gloria is regularly selected for Honor Choirs and has even been featured as a soloist on multiple occasions at these prestigious events. Gloria lights up the room with her talents and her love of music.
Elizabeth Budesheim
Grade 11; Pequannock Valley High School; Nominated by William Arnold
Elizabeth is a standout vocalist for our a cappella group, the Nocktaves, and a dedicated member of our choir. She works tirelessly and takes her craft very seriously. A three-year lead singer with the Nocktaves, she has already played two major roles on the PTHS stage — Cady in Mean Girls and Blanche in Bonnie & Clyde. Most recently, she has stepped into a leadership role as Music Director of our fall touring production, Annie Kids, a show produced entirely by students. Given her strong musical skills and exceptional work ethic, selecting Miss Budesheim for this position was an easy choice!
Michaela Cedeño
Grade 11; Dover High School; Nominated by John Hoferer
Michaela exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated student. Throughout these past three years, I have seen the emergence of a highly motivated, assertive, mature, and compassionate student who excels at every aspect of her education. Michaela is consistently striving for greatness, specifically as a leader in the music department. Additionally, Michaela is an avid performer at Dover High School, performing in chorus, the concert band, and the spring musical. Finally, Michaela has cemented herself as one of the premier performers at Dover High School.
The 2025-2026 Music Student of the Month program is supported by The Walter F. and Alice Gorham Foundation, Inc.
Lillia Choi
Grade 8; Ridgedale Middle School; Nominated by Andrea Lynch
Lily demonstrates strong musical ability, a positive attitude, and a genuine enthusiasm for singing. She consistently demonstrates a willingness to practice, listen, and improve. In rehearsals, Lily comes prepared, follows directions, and works well with peers, contributing to a respectful and supportive group environment. She often leads her peers in the “fun” parts of choir, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere. Lily is receptive to feedback and makes noticeable efforts to apply it, showing maturity and responsibility beyond her grade level. This experience would support Lily’s continued growth as a confident singer while reinforcing teamwork, discipline, and a love of music.
Dia Cohen
Grade 12; West Morris Mendham High School; Nominated by Patricia Danner
Dia Cohen is an outstanding young musician whose dedication, leadership, and love of music have made a meaningful impact on the Mendham High School Choir. Over her four years in choir, Dia has grown into a confident and insightful vocalist, recognized for her deep musical understanding and genuine empathy for others. As a member of Mendham Voices, Ladies in Red, and Morris Area Honor Choir, she brings heart, intelligence, and purpose to every performance, often helping her peers discover the meaning and emotion behind the music. Beyond her musical accomplishments, Dia has been a remarkable leader as Choir President and Student Director of Ladies in Red. Organized, dependable, and always one step ahead, she plays an essential role in rehearsals and performances while creating a positive, supportive environment for everyone around her. Dia’s quiet leadership, attention to detail, and genuine care for others elevate every ensemble she’s part of. Her passion for music, combined with her kindness and perseverance, truly embodies the spirit of a Music Student of the Month.
Reya Emmes
Grade 7; Rockaway Valley School; Nominated by Sara Bartel
Reya is an extremely talented vocal musician. Reya is a quiet individual but shines in choir and on stage. She has been an active member of the school musical, and is a current member of the Upper Grade Chorus. This year, she auditioned for the Morris Area Honor Choir and was selected to participate with other students around the county. Reya works hard on being the best vocalist she can be by asking questions and coming in for extra help to practice. This passion is shown in her performances.
Michael Fielding
Grade 6; Harding Township School; Nominated by Rachel Gareau
Michael is an extremely gifted singer. Though it is only his first year in middle school chorus, he held leading roles in 4th and 5th grade in the school musical, and will have a featured role in the middle school musical this year. He has an incredibly clear tone and sense of pitch. He also thoroughly enjoys to sing, and I would love to find ways to continue encouraging him. I think this is a wonderful opportunity to recognize his talent and ability.
Jasper Zoe Fernandes
Grade 12; Roxbury High School; Nominated by Patrick Hachey
I have known Jasper for six years, first as a participant in my summer theater program, and then as a member of the Roxbury High School Choral Program. During that time, I have seen immense growth in Jasper as a musician, singer, artist, and person. Jasper has been involved in every possible aspect of the Choral and Theater program at Roxbury since entering as a freshman. During their time at Roxbury High School, Jasper has participated in the Freshman Treble Choir (1 year), Classic Sounds Honors (3 years) Melodies (a select treble choir - 4 years), Sensation (select jazz choir- 2 years), Revelation (top jazz choir - 2 years), and Madrigals (2 years), and currently
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serves as the President of the Roxbury High School Choral program. In addition, Jasper has made every honor choir that they have ever auditioned for: North Jersey Region Choir (4 years), NJ All State Choir (3 years), NJACDA Honor Choir (1 year), and ACDA All Eastern Choir (1 year). Besides being an outstanding choral musician, Jasper is also an accomplished soloist in multiple styles. Last year, Jasper voiced Audrey II in our production of Little Shop of Horrors, and is currently in rehearsal for this yearʼs production of 9 to 5, playing the role of Judy. They have been taking voice lessons for the past six years and currently is a member of my private voice studio. Jasper is equally comfortable belting contemporary Broadway tunes as they are executing a Mozart aria or Schubert lied. They are currently applying to multiple schools to study Voice Performance for their bachelorʼs degree. I can't imagine a more deserving candidate for this honor.
Amelia Graham
Grade 8; Black River Middle School; Nominated by Kathleen Vespignani
Amelia has been a member of the chorus at Black River for three years, as well as a member of the audition-only Select Chorus for three years. She is often a soloist in our choral groups. After three years of teaching her, I have seen Amelia blossom into a magnificent musician and performer. Amelia comes to rehearsals and performances with incredible enthusiasm and a love of singing! Amelia takes private voice lessons outside of school and actively participates in musical theater and other acting opportunities, in addition to her many school activities. Amelia truly exemplifies what a great musician is! She is a versatile singer and learns quickly; she has a great vocal range and beautiful vocal quality. She certainly has potential to become a professional singer/performer. She is an amazing young woman and singer.
Bella Norton
Grade 8; Randolph Middle School; Nominated by Ann Kelly
Bella has been in choir and orchestra since 4th grade and has always taken opportunities to do extra. In 5th grade she was selected for the Region 1 Elementary Honors Orchestra Festival, where she placed 1st chair in the Capriccio Ensemble. She also enhanced her elementary school choir experience by joining orffamaniacs, where she played the xylophone in addition to singing. In middle school, Bella has been a member of the select ensembles, Canzonetta and ConBrio, as well as regular choir and orchestra. She loves performing in concerts. She has also taken several music elective classes ane attended vocal and orchestra summer camps. At home, Bella enjoys writing covers for songs and even writing some of her own original songs that include instrumental and vocal parts! She aspires to be an official songwriter one day.
Eve Raisch
Grade 8; Brooklawn Middle School; Nominated by Danielle Hazel
I would like to nominate Eve, a strong and confident singer who is a leader in our chorus. She participates positively every day, sets a great example for others, and is always engaged and prepared during rehearsals. In addition to her musical ability, Eve consistently demonstrates excellent behavior and a positive attitude. She is respectful, dependable, and a pleasure to work with, making her a wonderful choice for outstanding vocalist.
Nikolas Pavero
Grade 8; John Hill School; Nominated by Yvonne Manca
Nikolas has been an asset to the choir program here at John Hill School. Nikolas consistently demonstrates exceptional musical ability and dedication in choir, setting a high standard for both performance and professionalism. He learns the music quickly, sings with confidence and accuracy, and contributes a strong, well-balanced tone that elevates the entire ensemble. Beyond his vocal skill, he shows outstanding commitment by coming prepared, supporting fellow singers, and maintains a positive and respectful attitude during rehearsals and performances. Nikolasʼ leadership, reliability, and passion for choral music makes him deserving of this recognition.
