Biographies

Cassandra’s love of singing and the arts came at an early age while growing up on a farm in Woodstock, IL. She is the owner of A Place to Shine Music, where for 18 years she has been teaching, performing, writing and producing music. After receiving a degree in Music Education and Vocal Performance from the University of Illinois in 1991, Cassandra continued her professional training in opera and acting in Chicago where she performed with the Grant Park Symphony, toured with The New Organization for Vocal Artistry and was an anthem soloist for the Chicago Bulls. She has had the pleasure of working with several amazing coaches and directors including Ollie Watts Davis (University of Illinois), Conductor-Donald Nally, Kay Sparling, Broadway Actress-Victoria Brasser Vos and spent 6 years training with world renowned opera singer Winifred Faix Brown. She has extensive experience both as an actress and musical director and co-wrote/directed a children's musical entitled "Randolph's Dream". She has been seen performing in Illinois, Wisconsin, Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, Washington State, Tennessee, Colorado, New Orleans and Washington D.C.

Her motto: "Believe in what is possible..." It is her passion and soul’s work to share music and inspire growth. As a teacher she fulfills this by coaching voice, acting and functioning as an artist’s mentor and workshop facilitator. As a performer, she does this through writing, singing and recording her own music and performing as often as possible. As a producer/director she has been instrumental in the success of hundreds of recitals, concerts, benefits and arts events. In addition, she is the co-creator of the organization SOTA-Spirit of the Arts, which provides artists an opportunity to perform in a supportive environment, through open mics, festivals and feature concerts.

In 1999, Cassandra shifted from opera to contemporary music. She began focusing more on her passion for writing and performing her own original songs. Since then, she has toured the Midwest as a solo performer and has been the lead vocalist for numerous rock bands. Cassandra currently performs regularly with her band Cassandra and the Gravel Road Band, as a solo artist and is also asked to collaborate regularly with other talented area musicians. She also performs regularly in Nashville Writer's Rounds and is a member of ASCAP and The Nashville Songwriters Association.

A prolific songwriter, Cassandra's lyrics and extraordinary vocals connect with people straight from the heart. Her original songs deal with love, loss, self-reflection, and dreams. “Her dynamic personality, sense of humor and interaction with the audience make the atmosphere so relaxed, it feels like you are sitting in someone’s living room. Once she opens her mouth to sing, it feels like you have been transported to another place.”

Her CD "Here I Am" was recorded at Starbell Hatchery Studio with friend and collaborator John Hegner, producer and was released on October 23, 2010. She was thrilled to have guitarist Peter Calo play on her CD as well. Peter is a New York based guitarist known for his work with Carly Simon. She is currently working on a project with 4 time EMMY nominated composer/producer/guitarist Roger Adler. Cassandra is excited to share her music with a wider audience and hopes it will have a positive impact on people’s lives.

Cassandra's studio is at the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park at the Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake, IL where she is a resident partner. She lives in Marengo, IL with her husband Phil