Robin Bier
mezzo-soprano - pianist - singing teacher
As a member of ensemble Bright Cecilia, Robin is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of York, researching the history and the art of self-accompaniment. She previously completed an MA in Vocal Studies at York with Dr. John Potter She sings with York-based ensembles including Yorkshire Bach Choir, Yorkshire Baroque Soloists and the Ebor Singers. Recent solo appearances in the UK and United States include alto solos in Bach's St. John Passion and Purcell's 'Rejoice in the Lord Alway' with the Yorkshire Baroque Soloists, alto solo in Haydn's Harmoniemesse with the University Chamber Choir and Baroque Ensemble, the role of Mary Major in the twelfth century drama Planctus Mariae with Viriditas Opera, the role of Damon in the modern premier of the anonymous Jesuit pastorale Daphnis, the roles of Humility in Hildegard von Bingen's Ordo Virtutum and Rachel in Herod and the Slaughter of the Innocents with Viriditas Opera, alto solos in Handel's Messiah with the Glacier Symphony, and solos in Beethoven's Choral Fantasy with the Florida West Coast Symphony. Robin has just become the bottom voice in the new female contemporary vocal quartet Ergodos Voices, and will tour Ireland with the ensemble in December.
Robin recently spent two years in Sarasota, Florida where she was in demand as a soloist and choral section leader with ensembles including Key Chorale, Bradenton Musica Sacra, the Sarasota Camerata, Church of the Redeemer Choir and the Anna Maria Island Chorus and Orchestra, for whom she also served as rehearsal accompanist and assistant to the Artistic Director.
Robin received her undergraduate degrees in 2006 from Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music, where she studied voice with Dr. Gerald Crawford and piano with Angela Cheng. During her time at Oberlin she sang with the Collegium Musicum Oberliniense and the Oberlin College Choir, and appeared as a soloist with the Oberlin Symphony Orchestra, the Oberlin Contemporary Music Ensemble, Oberlin Opera Theater, the Oberlin Gilbert and Sullivan Players, the Cleveland Heights Chamber Orchestra, and the Cleveland Orchestra under the baton of Pierre Boulez.
In addition to her studies, solo and ensemble singing, Robin also teaches voice and collaborates as pianist with select singers for chamber repertoire. Robin is an avid visual artist, and some of her work can be seen on Bright Cecilia programs and publicity. She loves hiking and exploring the natural world with her husband Graham, raising chickens, cooking wholesome food, playing soccer and practicing sustainable living.
