Music lovers in Vermilion are in for a treat as the Vermilion Allied Arts 2024/25 Series' first performer of its four-show season kicks off with local talent Amber Bauer and rising star Abygale Durie on Saturday, October 19, at 7:30 p.m. in the Alumni Theatre at Lakeland College.
Amber Bauer, a Vermilion native, has been honing her musical skills since childhood, with deep musical roots nurtured by her parents, Bonnie and Stan Bauer. Bonnie, who taught music at Vermilion Elementary School for 35 years, was also a personal music instructor, while Stan is a versatile multi-instrumentalist. Amber’s love for music blossomed early, starting at just five years old under her mother’s guidance.
Over the past 15 years, Amber has carved out a respected career as a musician, songwriter, and recording artist. She has also spent 26 years as a music teacher, recently launching an innovative online chording and improv program, enabling students to learn their favorite songs. This program can be accessed through her website, amberbauermusic.com.
Amber’s professional journey began in 2008 as a piano and Hammond organ player, as well as a backup vocalist for Jesse Farrell. She soon supported other notable artists, including Lisa Brokop. Her solo career gained momentum in 2010 when Canadian Country Star George Canyon signed her to his new label, Broken Pick Records. During this time, Amber toured with Canyon, co-wrote and produced her debut single “Buy Your Tears,” and opened for acts like Emerson Drive. She has also shared stages with Duane Steele, Brett Kissel, and Jake Matthews.
Her first full-length album, recorded in Nashville and Calgary in 2014, further cemented her reputation as a serious artist. For the past eight years, Amber has been touring alongside Lisa Brokop, including the current “Legendary Ladies Midwest US Tour.”
Abygale Durie, a 22-year-old country singer-songwriter from Ranfurly, will share the stage with Bauer on October 19. From a young age, Abygale was drawn to music, with her mother noting that she could whistle before she could talk.
Abygale earned a diploma in Artist Development from the Nimbus School of Recording and Media in Vancouver and has since traveled to Nashville for writing sessions and demo recordings. With four songs available on all music platforms as she released a new single on September 13, 2024. Her performances are packed with original songs, many of which are yet to be released, and she brings a unique style to both her original and cover material.
While Abygale enjoys the spotlight on larger stages, she also has a fondness for intimate performances, bringing versatility and passion to her live shows.
Upcoming Performances
Following Bauer and Durie, the series will feature The Paperboys on November 5 at 7:30 p.m. in the Alumni Theatre. As the new year approaches, Black Umfolos will perform on February 22, followed by Jack Semple’s “Plays Lightfoot” show on March 22, both at 7:30 p.m.
Don’t miss these four exciting performances, with tickets available at Fantasy Flowers for just $125 for the series.