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GUESTBOOK COMMENTS:
Name: | Federica Saglani Panayiotiakis |
Date: | 9/14/17 re: Athens Square Park/Greek performance |
Comments: Thank you for the spectacular performance. It was melodic par excellence
in the most precious space Athens Square. Thanks to Mr. Delis, organizers and you the musicians. My friends and I had a blast and we were able
to relive precious moments like in a Greek agora. Your rendition of Myserlou
was mesmerizing...Lots of luck with future ventures. |
Name: | Sydney Gozzi |
Date: | 5/3/17 re: Baystate Celebration of Life Memorial |
Comments: The time,care and attention to detail she (Julie) provided to bring comfort
to grieving families was exceptional. The songs she carefully selected
were meaningful and her voice was absolutely beautiful! We would hire her
again. |
Name: | Roanne Patterson |
Date: | 5/15/16 re: recital, Friends of Middletown Thrall Library concert series |
Comments: This was the best. Oh
how I love the songs. Life is good with this magic at our fingertips.
Bravissimo to my performer friends! |
Name: | Joan R. |
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Date: | 5/15/16 re: recital, Friends of Middletown Thrall Library concert series |
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Comments: Thank you so much, Julie and Ken and all! I really loved the concert! – Such high-level performance – It was a special pleasure to attend. I have to say I really love the quality of Julie’s voice and singing – It’s so sweet and mellow and sultry and touching. I thought the classic standard-pop-jazz pieces were especially good – especially with Steve’s (Margoshes') superb accompaniment. – and I feel that Julie’s voice is so ideal for singing them. I love the sultry, gentle, “suave” quality she has! Of course I also loved the Irish song and Granada and the Greek song. These are lovely works and they are so well done by you folks. I also adored Steve’s Rag piece – God Dog Rag - Talk about superb!! Truly brilliant!!! Thrilling!!
|
Name: | Dr. James Cotter, Times Herald Record |
Date: | 4/03/16 re: "The Compeat Julie", Grand Montgomery Chamber Music
Series, NY |
Comments: You gave a splendid performance, as always. |
Name: | Elaine H. |
Date: | 4/03/16 re: "The Compeat Julie", Grand Montgomery Chamber Music
Series, NY |
Comments: We had such a great time at the concert on Sunday! You definitely
were in your realm. Every detail down to perfection...your voice, program
selections and stage presence. You couldn't have chosen a better musician
than Steve to compliment your venue (as well as the two fabulous guest
artists, Ada and Ken)! Bravo!!! I especially
loved S'agapo and Doug liked Lorca's Spanish folk songs. Ada's "The Moon
is Hiding" is a favorite of mine. Ken's two songs go without saying that
they are "classic". Two very well thought out pieces that we can all
relate to! |
Name: | Connie D., jazz vocalist |
Date: | 11/07/15 re: "A Greek Musical Odyssey with Julie Ziavras", Chelmsford,
MA |
Comments: I just wanted to tell you that your performance on sat. was
incredible; not just the beautiful vocals[very versatile] but also, your
presentation, stage presence, the journey that you take your audience on
through song; such a gift; I enjoyed talking with you ,afterwards; you
are very "down to earth"
thank you , for sharing your gift with others & -FANTASTIC BAND |
Name: | Lorraine, WTBQ Tuesday Roundtable |
Date: | 11/08/15 re: "Chris Farlekas Tribute Concert" |
Comments: I
really enjoyed the show yesterday and you were fabulous!
Well done! and a fitting tribute. I will talk about the show tomorrow on
the air!!! Well done! and a fitting tribute. Marie:What a glorious tribute to Chris. The entertainment and presentation was wonderful with great artists and class. You looked beautiful and your singing is amazing and I still get chills when I hear your amazing voice. Kathi: Tim and I both thought all performances were spectacular. However, your love of the man was demonstrated time and time again. I am sure you feel that all that work was appreciated by the hundreds present. I met Chris when I volunteered for the People for People Fund. He would stop by and read the applications over our shoulders. He always expressed such concern for those in need. He was also there to recognize all of us who finished radiation treatment at our luncheon. No one can doubt how much love and admiration was demonstrated yesterday afternoon. |
Name: | Kitty, Unsion Center for Arts |
Date: | 10/27/12 re: "A Taste of Greece: OXI Day Celebration with Julie Ziavras" |
Comments: Thank you all so much for making last night's
concert such a resounding success! I can't tell you how many people came up to
me during the course of the evening saying what a wonderful time they were
having. They were absolutely knocked out by the quality of Julie's voice
and selections, Kostas's mastery of the bouzouki, and Bill & Livia's
enthusiasm for getting everyone up and dancing. It was truly a
"Unison" evening, combining talented artistry and the spirit of
community. Thanks from everyone at Unison! |
Name: | Helen |
Date: | 10/6/12 re: "A Greek Musical Odyssey" |
Comments: Your performance was beautiful; your singing was superb. I enjoyed your introduction to each song and
the historical background you presented.
I don't know if you remember me, but I have been to several of your
concerts.
|
Name: | C. Drinnan |
Date: | 7/5/12 re: "Greek Live" |
Comments: ...we do look forward to seeing you again at St. Alban's on
November 11th - that is "set in stone" on my calendar!!
As I am writing this I am listening to your "Live Greek" album.
Your voice is a gift to the world from God, as are the talents of your
fellow musicians. |
Name: | Judy Hamer |
Date: | 5/14/11 re: "Ken and Julie at the JFHF" |
Comments: What a fantastic evening. The walls resonated with the beautiful lyrical quality of Julie’s voice along with the “smooth and velvety” quality of Ken’s voice. Most of the songs they sang were written by Ken. He writes largely about his life experiences and each song has a story to tell. Their songs were heartfelt, sensitive, poetic and at times haunting. In contrast, some of their other songs were humorous and whimsical. Their extraordinary talent was evident
throughout the evening. To further
enhance the evening, Rabbi Johanan Bickhardt joined Julie and Ken for some of
their songs. |
Name: | Jen Parker |
Date: | 1/22/10 re: "The Dream" |
Comments: CD Baby delivered "The Dream" to me last evening, and I listened
far into the night. I wish I were more articulate in my opinion,
but it was touching and beautiful and makes me very happy! Thank you both
for such lovely music. |
Name: | Adam and Christina |
Date: | 11/20/09 re: Wedding ceremony at St. Anastasia, Harriman, NY |
Comments: Adam and I just wanted to thank you so much for helping make our ceremony
perfect. You have a truly amazing voice. Everyone at the ceremony
could not stop talking about how beautiful your voice was and how heartfelt
the singing was. Once again thank you so much! |
Name: | Dr. Jillian T. Weiss |
Date: | 8/7/09 re: "La Boheme", Julie as Mimi |
Comments: I was at last night's performance of La Boheme at Sullivan County College.
Ms. Ziavras, you were electrifying, and a real standout. Star quality. |
Name: | Milt Snitzer |
Date: | Posted at CDBaby re: Ken and Julie's CD "The Dream" |
Comments: Wonderful album! Every one of the songs is a gem and we have listened to
them over and over. Ordered an extra copy for my daughter and husband who would
love to listen to them. |
Name: | Eric Benjamin Gordon |
Date: | Posted at CDBaby re: Ken and Julie's CD "The Dream" |
Comments: A wonderful album showcasing the gifts from two of the best in Orange County. When first I heard Ken DeAngelis and Julie Ziavrus, they weren't yet Ken and Julie. That was in March of 2000 at Pine Bush Coffee House, when I was treated to Julie's pretty rendition of "Kathy's Song" by Simon & Garfunkel, along with Ken singing "Falling Star" and "Hanging On to Every Word" (both included on this breathtaking CD). Nine months later, in much the same location, I was introduced to the sound of both of them singing (what turned out to be) the title song from "The Dream." Somehow, a part of me wanted to buy this CD right then, in December of 2000. I knew that Ken and Julie had found a home, both in each other's music and each other's lives. When this CD was first made available in May of 2005, I was over the moon; I'd longed for a perfect example of Julie's voice, Ken's songs and the carillons that ring from the guitars in their hands. Not only does "The Dream" represent those things, but it also seems to express half-a-lifetime of experiences in one sussinct instance. Few can make such aa achievement, but Ken and Julie have. "I'm hanging on to every word you've said." |
Name: | Sharon Seekamp |
Date: | 5/22/09 re: "The Many Splendored Songs of Sammy Fain" |
Comments: I enjoyed your performance in Jeffersonville very much... The music content was great and , while I did not
expect to react this way, your "Love Is A Many Splendid Thing" brought me to
tears. It always amazes me when I am transformed by a
piece ...... |
Name: | Sophia James |
Date: | 5/17/09 re: Hellenic Music Foundation "Mousikes Anamnisis" |
Comments: You were thrilling to hear yesterday – my friend and I think it is worth
a long trip to hear you do Boheme... just wanted you to know my friend
also loved the voices, especially yours, and she is a frequent concert
and opera aficionado she may come with me to Boheme. |
Name: | Marc Lambert, Puffin Foundation Cultural Forum |
Date: | 3/4/09 re: "I Have a Dream" concert Julie Ziavras & Steve
Margoshes |
Comments: It was wonderful to have you here. The performance was terrific and the audience was inspired. I got a lot of appreciation for bringing you here. A few of us agreed that the second half of the concert was the strongest in terms of both how you personally connected to, and emotionally conveyed, that repertoire and that it seemed the more natural material for your particular vocal range. The Greek work and Joan Baez was the most exceptional as it felt like something truly elevated and special was coming from you. |
Name: | Maria |
Date: | Posted at CDBaby re: Julie's Greek CD "Simply Mavroudis" |
Comments: Awesome music! Incredible voice of Julie Ziavras! A hidden gem was this cd that I was lucky to find by chance. Of course
I am familiar with the music of Mavroudis which I collect, but on this
cd the awesome surprise was the collaboration of his music with Julie's
incredible voice. Bravo, Bravo, Bravo! |
Name: | Jon Stein, WTBQ, (Sunday's, 8 PM) re: Ken and Julie's CD "The Dream" |
Date: | 3/4/09 www.talentconnections.com/piano |
Comments: I love the CD....You guys have a beautiful sound and your songs are wonderful...I
will definitely playing more from the CD and would love you guys to come
on my show....you two really do sound awesome together. That song, The
Dream, really should be shopped around. I think it is very marketable. |
Name: | Barry Plaxen/ Managing Editor, Delaware & Hudson CANVAS |
Date: | 8/3/08 Re: Julie as Donna Anna in Don Giovanni with the Delaware Valley Opera Tusten Theatre, Narrowsburg, NY |
Comments:
I congratulate you. You did some Donna Anna acting that I have never
seen anyone do as well. That is not to take away from your wonderful
singing. |
Name: | Bob Campbell |
Date: | 8/3/08 Re: Julie as Donna Anna in Don Giovanni with the Delaware Valley Opera Tusten Theatre, Narrowsburg, NY |
Comments:
Wonderful, fantastic, tremendous, bravo. You made the part of Donna Anna yours. You sung and acted it perfectly. Congratulations. This was an exciting proformance. It is hard to believe this is a little local opera company. There no weakness in the cast. WOW, what a production. Loved it! |
Name: | Jeanne Paff/ Newburgh Symphony board |
Date: | 5/4/08 Re: Recital for Grand Montgomery Chamber Music Series w/Steve Margoshes |
Comments:
The thanks go to you and Steve---the concert was absolute perfection. Thank you two!!! |
Name: | Bob Campbell, Re: Folk and International Concert |
Date: | 3/29/08 |
Comments:
Julie, I have to tell you how much I enjoyed the concert Saturday night. I loved how you and Johanan mainly sang solos, but supporting each other so you got a chance to use your voice to full advantage. You reach for the stars and soar right past them. It was Julie at her best. The rest were great too. The chocolate cake also was marvolus. |
Name: | Helen Lipson & Milt Snitzer, Re: Julie's international folk concert | ||||||
Date: | 2/27/08 | ||||||
Comments: Just wanted to thank you again for meeting you and hearing the wonderful
music in Long Beach temple last Sunday (Feb. 24). We wrote to Nancy
Cohen (Helen's niece) to thank her for telling us about the concert.
Helen and I have been listening to your new CD and following the words in
the liner notes. We are so enjoying the songs and think that every one of them
is wonderful.
|
Name: | Katia Zallas, President, Hellic Music Foundation |
Date: | 11/18/07 Re: Julie's concert with Serafim Lazos |
Comments: I want to congratulate you and Lazo for the wonderful concert at Stathakion
last Sunday.
It was a great pleasure listening to both of you interpret all those beautiful Greek songs.
Yesterday I finished listening to your entire CD. Your voice is so
wonderful. So warm and so musical. You have a BEAUTIFUL voice Julie and you
should do more CD's so that people can enjoy this beautiful talent of yours
every single day. Of course more concerts too.
Again congratulations. It is a pleasure to listen to your singing.
|
Name: | Christine Tyler |
Date: | 8/04/07 Re: Julie's performance of La Perichole with The Delaware Valley Opera |
Comments: Your show and performance were delightful!!! I was happy just to hear your
voice, which is beautiful and refreshing. It's a great story, and I thought
you all did a wonderful job! Honestly, you are very talented, and deserve every success you attempt.
I could see you at the Met, or anywhere you see for yourself. You have
a genuine stage presence, like you're really into the role, and there "for
the role" not just for the performance. I hope your final performance
will be just as great, if not greater!
I look forward to future performances. Brava! Brava! Bravi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
A devoted fan and friend,
|
Name: | L. Dotson, Re: Julie's performance of La Perichole with The Delaware Valley Opera |
Date: | 7/29/07 |
Comments: It was loads of fun,
glad we went, and Narrowsburg is a treasure. |
Name: | Anatoly Ionesov, Director, International Museum of Peace and Solidarity, Republic of Uzbekistan, http://www.civilsoc.org/nisorgs/uzbek/peacemsm.htm |
Date: | 7/11/07 Re: By request, The Dream" is part of the Museum's distinguished Peace Autograph Project collection |
Comments: Thank you very much for your most welcome echo and enclosed autographed
CD (with lovely songs of yours!) which have JUST reached us in good
shape. As for our Peace Autograph Collection, it is growing and progressing
continually. Hundreds of entries have been collected so far from an array
of prominent men and women of achievement from around the world. Envisioned
is a library of inscribed photographs, autographed books, musical collections,
personal messages, artwork, archives of memorabilia etc. Take care, keep smiling and creating for very many years to come. See you one day here in 2750-year-old Samarkand, "Rome of the East". Best thoughts and good wishes, Anatoly Ionesov |
Name: | Indie Productions www.Indiepro.com |
Date: | |
Comments: IndiePro Comments: Ken and Julie offer acoustic folk with engaging musical composition, and sincere, heartfelt lyrics delivered with sensitivity. Reminiscent of the musical stylings of Peter, Paul & Mary, Harry Chapin, and Simon and Garfunkel. http://www.indiepro.com/2006/11/03/ken-julie-the-eclectic-folk-project-the-dream/ |
Name: | Dian Francesca Cuccinello, Producer/Manager for Union Hall Coffeehouse, Carlisle, MA www.unionhallcoffeehouse.com |
Date: | 4/9/07 |
Comments: We've just met over the phone. I've been listening to Great
Neck Farewell, and I must say that I think you have one of the most
beautiful voices I have ever heard, anywhere. Union Hall Coffeehouse,
here in Carlisle MA will be just thrilled, AND honored to have you
and Ken performing for us in October of `07. Ciao for now!
Dian Francesca Cuccinello, Producer/Manager for Union Hall. |
Name: | Barbara Navarro |
Date: | 2/12/07 |
Comments: It was so wonderful to hear you and Ken sing at
Howland Culture Center such well selected songs for Black History Month. You
both outdid yourselves (as usual) bringing tears to my eyes with the words,
their meaning and your voices in such great harmony. What amazes me is that you
never cease to amaze me!!!!!!!! Wow - it was wonderful. |
Name: | Amy Ober |
Date: | 1/22/07 |
Comments: The song "Great Neck Farewell" - and Julie singing it - are, for me, among the ten greatest beauties I've encountered on the planet - in the company of such wonders as the Napali Coast in Kauai. I REALLY love Ken's songs and hearing both of you sing them. |
Name: | Mark Apache Rose Publishing, Inc/ apacherose.net |
Date: | 11/21/06 re: Civil Defense Drill for Watchin' Out for Folk - Various Artists, a compilation CD featuring outstanding Folk music from around the world. |
Comments:
Hey, I really like this song! We are going to be listening through
songs from now on into January but I have moved this one into my favorites
folder and I want to see how it will fit in with the others. We'll get
back with you as we narrow down the final cuts and get closer to production
of the disks and work out the details.
Mark |
Name: | Celia Milton www.celiamilton.com Creating ceremonies for the celebrations of life |
Date: | 10/22/06 re: JMH Dull Productions/ House Concert |
Comments: thank you for your wonderful songs and
singing at the Dull's today! (although I hate to admit that I'm old enough to
remember the civil defense drills)..... your songs about loss and the challenges
of illness were especially touching. I'm going to forward your site on to a
group of my colleagues, all of whom write and perform ceremonies of all sorts;
weddings, healing, memorials, baby namings. I think they'll find your music and
lyrics inspiring and useful in their work.
Best of luck with the new CD and all your
creative pursuits,
Celia
|
Name: | Nancy Proyect, President, Orange County Citizens Foundation |
Date: | 9/19/06 re: CD "The Dream" and concert 9/17/06 Orange County Citizens Foundation |
Comments: Thank you so much for the wonderful performance on Sunday... I have already enjoyed your CD and as soon as we have some time, I’m going to make my
kids listen too. I think they would love Ken’s song about the wolves and
a few others. He has a gift and you two make a great team. Thanks again,
Nancy
|
Name: | Efrosine re:review of Julie's Greek CD "Simply Mavroudis" on CdBaby |
Date: | |
Comments:***** Outstanding music with an incredible vocal by Julie Ziavras If I could give this more than 5 stars I would. I had never heard of Julie Ziavras and just fell into this CD by accident. What an incredible voice she has and the music as lovely as could be. This CD is being recommended to all of my friends who are interested in quality. BRAVO!!!! Efrosine |
Name: | Barry Adelman, Music for Humanity, re: review of CD "The Dream" |
Date: | 8/17/06 |
Comments: Congratulations on the wonderful review of your CD
on www.cdreviews.com. It rings true to
me, but I would take exception to the comment about The Ballad of Clancy McGee
which has a wonderful vibrancy and energy in contrast to some of Ken's more
subtle compositions. Continued success on your musical journey.
Sincerely, Barry Adelman
|
Name: | Eugene Foley, re: Foley Entertainment, Inc. |
Date: | 8/13/06 |
Comments: Thanks for submitting your material for the evaluation. I really
enjoyed the music. My highlights were the lead vocals and the lyrics. But honestly, the project was solid across the board. Also - the melodies were strong in both the verses AND the chorus, which is not something I see often! I read more about you online and was impressed with your outstanding resumes. I appplaud your efforts and congrats on everything that you have both accomplished. Thank you and continued best wishes, Eugene Foley |
Name: | Doug & Sheila Glenn, re: Ken and Julie at Middletown Summer Concert Series at Festival Square |
Date: | 8/02/06 |
Comments: I just wanted to let you
know that you 2 sounded just wonderful in your performances at the Middletown
Arts Square on Wednesday night. You both looked very tanned and you must have
spent lots of time outdoors giving concerts recently!
Ken's songs were wonderful
and the way you ended the concert was really a charm with some of my favorite
songs of his. My only regret was that you did not get a chance to sing the one
song that was Sheila's favorite, that I also like very much also ... "Great Neck
Farewell".
Please keep us posted on
where you will be playing next ! We will enjoy listening our newly purchased cd
of greek songs until we can hear you next where hopefully you will then perform
"Great Neck Farewell" for us.
your fans
always,
Doug & Sheila Glenn |
Name: | Amy Ober, re: "Songs from the Heart" Ken and Julie & The Eclectic Folk Project at Sullivan County Community College |
Date: | 7/23/06 |
Comments: I just wanted to let you both know how much we enjoyed your work.
While it didn't exactly come as a surprise that we love hearing both of
you sing, the evening deepened our appreciation of both of your
artistry. We just loved the songs and, as we told Ken during the
break, we feel that the songs are exceptional, and they really do grab
you on the first listen. We were particularly moved by your opening
number, the song about the cruise, the song about the house in Great Neck
(I didn't know there was another human being on the planet that gets as
broken up by such losses as I do - but apparently there is!), the song
about the lane, and the Timber Wolf song - and others too - and that is
a lot of songs to have been so moved by at a first hearing.
It was a great show - we are prouder than ever to know you -Thanks for
the lovely evening.
|
Name: | Roanne Patterson/ Country House Arts Center |
Date: | 6/26/06 re: "Songs from Around the World" at Country House Arts Center |
Comments: I know that I gave you many accolades on Sat night but let me reiterate.
It was a magical night. ...upped my spirit for music and the bliss of the arts. Bless you both
and thanks a thousand times. |
Name: | Christie E Tyler |
Date: | 6/01/06 re: Julie: "International Enchantments—Land Where the Good Songs Go" |
Comments:
I'm sending over a copy of my class asssignment from the past fall semester
to do an "Observation" of a current singer/performer, and
I just wanted to share how much I appreciate what Julie, and you both,
are doing. Scott and I are definitely fans, and hope to catch some of your
upcoming gigs.
In this concert, Julie sang several selections by herself and others in
duet. They included in order of appearance: a duet from the "Marriage
of Figaro" with Sarah, a French folk song, a Calypso song, 2 or 3
in folk duet with husband Ken, with Ken playing guitar, a Cradle song solo,
and from Puccini’s "la Rondine" "Chi il bel sogno di Doretta".I feel very fortunate thtat I had your perfromances to attend in the last
year, and use later on with this assignment. You seem to me an "inspired" and
dedicated singer/ professional, and you are an "inspiration" to others, so
please don't be shy about it.
Julie’s vocal technique seems somewhat flawless including the following:
Placement of the throat was very much open, sound pouring through, she
sang in the "mask" as her chiaroscuro is rich and full, and she
could literally throw her voice to the back of the church with no problem
(or seemingly anywhere.) Her sound came through in a dynamic mix of chest,
middle, and head—they seemed to work together almost, not a large distinction,
to my ears anyway. The vowels and consonants were nearly perfect, articulation
was good, and her dynamics very lively and engaging. She demonstrated a
full open range for breath control, and the musical phrasing was concise,
easy to understand in all the different styles and languages. Her general
vocal quality is full, open, brilliant, very inviting.
Julie’s visual presentation didn’t seem like a recital at all or staged. It appeared spontaneous and genuine. Her facial expressions were poised, but also open, and her overall body movement was graceful and conscious. She had full concert attire in a black whimsical dress with sculpted sleeves and sculpted skirt. Her make-up was apparent but not overdone—you could see her features and make out her expressions. Her communication (body language, etc.) was self-assured, and very confident and playful with the audience. Her solo pieces were deftly executed, with charm and liveliness. And her duets were likewise charming and she seemed part of the team, no longer just by herself. As for the stage overall, she owned it. She could move around in the "island" song as if she were on an island beach of sorts. And with the Puccini aria, you felt you might even be in Italy at La Scala, or some such. She had a gift of "transport" for each piece she rendered. The outstanding positive aspects of Ms. Ziavras’s overall technique are:
As for areas of work and development, I can only predict that this vocal
artist will continue to grow and expand with her career, and conquer as many
venues as she aspires to. She is a force to be reckoned with. I was very
inspired to partake of this event, and she is a role model for me. I feel very
blessed that I was able to meet her and her husband.
|
Name: | Sophia James, re: Julie's CD "Greek Live" |
Date: | 5/26/06 |
Comments: It was delightful to get your note – the C.D. is terrific – I love it – the
choices are great; the band is really good - all
of them especially the piano and bouzouki. If Hadjidakis were alive he would have personally chosen you to sing
his songs. I had met him about twenty years ago when I travelled
to Greece with a new boyfriend who was a very close friend of his and we
spent a lot of time with Manos - a really and truly lovely man. I
have a lot of his records which he took out of his library and inscribed
to me. By the way my favorite of the composers is Xarchakos - the
night I was so thrilled with your voice at the Greenwich benefit you sang
some of my favorites of his at my request. You were adorable. The only drawback to the
C.D. is that your presence and personality - which are so fantastic - are
missing - of course there's nothing like a live performance. |
Name: | Mollie Muenzen, re: Ken & Julie CD "The Dream" |
Date: | 1/05/06 |
Comments: My cousin Diana (also my godmother) loves your CD. It was her Christmas
gift .. Her favorites were "Timber Wolf," "Falling Star,"
and "Friday...next to the Sea." She wrote to me to
thank me, and said that your voice is "thrillingly beautiful."
She said the songs were sensitive and beautiful, and that the guitar work
was excellent. |
Name: | Peggy Reber & Dennis Shapson |
Date: | 12/05/05 re: "International Enchantments", Annapolis Royale, Nova Scotia |
Comments: We had the good fortune to hear you perform in Annapolis Royale, Nova Scotia
this Septmeber. At that time we bought a copy of your CD "The Dream"
and would now like to purchase two more copies to give as Christmas gifts
to friends. We wish you all the best and hope to see you again in Annapolis Royale next summer. |
Name: | Joe Olivo & Cindy Weiss, re: Mansion Concert for Friends of Music |
Date: | 11/19/05 |
Comments: My wife and I were at your performance last night and thoroughly enjoyed the show. Ken, your song lyrics were inspiring and in the case of "Civil Defense Drill", I knew Sr. Mary - she was my sixth grade teacher (but went by the name of Sr. Barbara) Those in the audience who did not live in that time period (nor attend a Catholic elementary school) truly missed the humor of the lyrics. Julie, your voice was soaring and sweet and the harmonies were excellent. We also enjoyed the classy guitar arrangements that fully compliment the lyrics. I'm usually hesitant to buy the CD of performers that appear at the Mansion since they tend to have additional instrumentation that for me, detract from what was heard in concert. I had a feeling that "The Dream" was going to be as close to what we heard and after listening to the CD, it was like being at the concert again. Thanks for presenting the style of songs that we remember from my college days and I know we'll be seeing you again. |
Name: | MaryBeth Hraniotis, re: Julie as Rosalinda in "Die Fledermaus" |
Date: | 11/05/05 |
Comments: You were magnificent! So great and full of life you were up there
on a glorious evening...I attempted to see you following your performance,
but alas, too many in the line and I felt the cool evening air was not
good for your instrument, so I turned around and joined my husband for
our exit... Congrats on a job well done--the space was so full of history,
as I walked around during scene changes and read the walls, dating back
to the 1700's. Thank-you for a truly engaging and inspiring evening... As a side note, my children were thrilled to hear that you both will be
performing (at the Starlight Festival), as their favorite song of Kens
is the "fire drill song"! and they wanted to know if that will
be played...So great that my children remember your performance in Bloomingburg....If
children can remember and name a piece, it is a testament to the depth
of your work and how far reaching and touching it is.....
Good luck with all that you are doing and give my best to ken--your website is fantastic! |
Name: | Tom Haynes-Paton , Director Digby Glee Club, Nova Scotia | ||||||
Date: | 9/03/05 re: "International Enchantments", Annapolis Royale, Nova Scotia | ||||||
Comments: How are my favourite folk duo? It's a rainy day here on St.
Mary's Bay and I have your CD playing. Fantastic. Thanks so much for that,
and signing it. I realize that one reason I so enjoy your music besides
the clarity of tone in your noices, is that I can understand the
words! And more important, they are worth understanding. Julie,
I was totally blown away with your flemaco playing and singing with your
guitar. I presume that the only reason you didn't include that in the concert
was because of the other flemaco music on the program. But next time
I hope to hear that on stage. Very moving. Both concerts were excellent.
From an audience standpoint, the Annapolis concert was tremendous.
The people were right with you. The Annapolis population is more sophisticated
and could immediately get totally into the music and talent on stage, into
the present, Broadway or no.
|
Name: | Nicolette Kerry, re: "Hadjidakis with Love", Marros Hall, Greek Orthodox Church of Our Saviour, Rye, NY |
Date: | 10/3/05 |
Comments: Thank you for a rewarding experience. I know that the people who attended enjoyed themselves immensely and were
disappointed that more people weren't there to experience this wonderful
evening!! So the standards were kept (as I knew full well that you
and Spiro & co. were excellent musicians)! I hope you all enjoyed
yourselves! I want to tell you how much I love your CDs - and especially
the one folk CD with Ken - it is great! I should tell you that a
friend of mine who went to the concert (Athos - from Cyprus with a brother
who is a psychiatrist no less - absolutely loved the folk CD....)!
Thanks again Julie for your wonderful performance and please thank Ken
for his patience and his surperb sound control (I may want his expert opinion
on what the church should do in Marros Hall as far as a sound system) and
tell him how much we all enjoyed the folk cd! |
Name: | Bill Broas, re: Ken & Julie CD "The Dream" |
Date: | 10/13/05 |
Comments: Thank you Ken the music was fantastic!!!!!!!!!!!
Had to hold a tear back a few times. Got home early and just had to put the CD
on. I must admit it's the first time I have heard you. It was great. Julie has
one wonderful voiceand the two of you WOW!!!.. I will bring this cd back next
week and I will buy a new one from you. Love it. |
Name: | Martin Zelnik, re: "September Songs" 9/17/05 Community Church of Wurtsboro |
Date: | 9/18/05 |
Comments: I chatted with both of you last night, including mentioning to Ken that
I had listened to "The Dreams" CD while having the volume turned
down on the Notre Dame- Michigan football game. It made the afternoon
most enjoyable, especially when I saw that Michigan won in overtime.
All kidding aside, I did enjoy The Dream and your performace last night
in the September Songs. |
Name: | Norm Sabowitz, re: International Enchantments, Halifax, Nova Scotia |
Date: | 08/31/05 |
Comments: Greetings and thanks to the entire company of Broadway Direct for your superbly eclectic Halifax performance! Attending the show turned out to be the best advice I ever got from Marty--and he's given me some pretty good advice over the years. From folk music to Mozart to Gershwin to Kern to Offenbach (with some Chopin
thrown in, if I remember correctly some painful sessions at the Third Street
Music Settlement.) And the addition of a couple of Flamenco performers was an
inspiration. Now there's a concept: The Flamenco of New Scotland. (I should have gone in to advertising.) Also, I was glad to learn that Mahler had a sense of humour--who knew? I wish you all continued success and joy in your collective career.
And I look forward to meeting you again. Oh, one more thing: please--oh,
pretty please--give us a CD of operatic duets by Julie and Sarah! --Norm |
Name: | Frank Farmlett Red Door Studio-recording Studio |
Date: | 10/06/05 re: Greek Heritage Music & Arts Festival 6/11/05, Catskill Arts Society |
Comments: I finally got around to finishing the recording I made of you at the Catskill
Art Society on June 11, 2005, and I would like to send it to you.The music touches me deeply, sometimes bringing tears to my eyes; especially the "hospitality" song, the "one salty tear" song, "The Road of Dreams", the song with the bouzouki takseem, and the song about the girl taken away to a harem. The songs have so much heart and feeling. The bouzouki reminds me of the way my father used to play the mandolin. Re: "The Dream" An eclectic mix, some sad, some serious, some hilarious; but all unified by a consistent style. I think Ken must have been an Irish fisherman in a previous life. |
Name: | Beth McCrink, re: Greenwood Grind, Greenwood Lake |
Date: | 06/28/05 |
Comments: I must say, you were fantastic here on Saturday. You & Ken are so entertaining.
Loved your songs, your stage presence & grace. Best of luck with your
new CD - The Dream. I am sure it will prove to be a huge success. I hope
to see you again soon and please know, there is always a stage here for
you! Take Care, Beth |
Name: | Kip Kyprianou, re: Greek program of Xarchakos & Rembetika at Stamford, CT |
Date: | 06/20/05 |
Comments: It was a pleasure hearing you and seeing you yesterday. Your singing truly
moves my soul. I wasn’t trying to be flattering; my comment came from the
heart. Before I started to come to Acroama, I frequent Microcosmos for
a while, I didn’t care for it. One visit to Acroama and I was totally captivated.
It wasn’t just your voice, it was also music that you sang; eclectic, tasteful;
just like yesterday. You sing what I love; the music of Greece’s great
composers, Theodorakis, Hatzidakis, Xarhakos, Markopoulos, Savopoulos.
I love Kostas Hatzis, though it is not for his voice but for his lyrics
and music. I like poetic music; music that has a meaning and a message,
music and poetry that talks about freedom, justice, poverty, and love.
You sing with great passion. As you sang watched your face, your expressions,
your smile, your body language; you felt the lyrics, you felt the music;
it was as if the words meant something to you.
After I learned that Acroama was closed, I inquired about you and the place, hoping that you moved to a different location. I was told that you were touring Greece, giving concerts. Though I did not know it to be true for sure, I felt good knowing you during your humble beginnings. You have great talent, a voice that parallels the well known vocalists of Greece, Maria Farantouri and Nana Mouskouri. You have a gift, a voice of great purity, clarity and range, a soprano as talented and skillful as Celine Dion and Barbra Streisand; vocalists I admire. No more compliments;
regardless how true they may be, just a great big THANK YOU for yesterday’s concert. I am
usually very reserved and I don’t pay compliments often; what I said to you
though was effortless. The words just poured out. I tend to be critical, and
judgmental; you and your group were perfect. I wish you all the
best and great success. |
Name: | Eric Benjamin Gordon |
Date: | 05/28/05 re: Ken & Julie at Bodles |
Comments: I wanted to tell you two straight away that I had a wonderful time at Bodles,
tonight. One of the things that I feel I can depend upon from the
local music world is a truly awesome performance from the two of you.
The longer you keep it up, the more satisfied people like me will be. Here's the pictures. Hope you like them, because I sure do. Take care, and good luck with your future performances. |
Name: | Marylouise Grimm |
Date: | 05/09/05 re: Ken and Julie CD Release Party |
Comments: You sure throw one hell of a party! Thank you!
So nice to gather for
a fun evening with good friends & great music & outrageously good
grub! You out did yourself!
Congratulations on the completion of a best seller cd! I listened to it all
the way home to Pa. today! I love the final cd cover-you guys
look grrreat!
|
Name: | Kathy & Jim Morgan |
Date: | 05/12/05 re: Ken and Julie CD |
Comments: Well......must say, it's the most relaxing and entertaining afternoon
I've had in a long time! You two are just absolute magic together!
There is nothing else I can say. I'm speechless. Jim is going
to love it when he hears it. Looking forward to seeing you at Bodles. I'm certainly going to have to hear more of Julie. Sends chills right down through and back again. Can't pick a favorite, they're all unique. This is even better than hearing 'Dead Skunk' and 'Amy', combined!!! ha! Best to you both and much success. |
Name: | Kaarlo Hentilla |
Date: | 05/09/05 re: Ken and Julie CD |
Comments: I dropped Mollie off at Newark airport this morning and had a chance
to listen to your CD on the way back. I just want to say that I think that
every song on it is beautifully done. This CD will be cherished by Mollie
and myself and by many others I'm sure. |
Name: Barbara Navarro re: Ken and Julie CD Release Party | |
Date: 05/08/05 | |
Comments: You and Ken hosted the most beautiful party to celebrate the release of your new CD. Wow!!!!! This time I am at a loss for words to express how I felt watching both
of you perform, the love in your eyes and in that room, your humbleness
and passion for your work, such exuberance!!!! Your voice so outstanding
- superb relaying the words to Ken's songs which are so genuine and
sincere. Both blessed with such talent . What an awesome duo :)
you have become. |
Name: | Joe Malfatone re: Ken and Julie "Limited Edition" CD |
Date: | 12/29/04 |
Comments: I just wanted to drop you guys a line to tell you that I borrowed your recent CD and listened to it. I really enjoyed it very much!! My favorite song on it is "Take Me (For What I Am). As I listened, I guess the best way to put it is to say that no truer lyrics were ever sung. I really like the vocals as well as the guitar arrangements. I hope the two of you will be making more CDs in the near future, and I hope to catch you guys performing out somewhere soon. Great stuff and keep up the good work. |
Name: | Mollie Muenzen re: Marriage of Figaro | ||||
Date: | 10/06/04 | ||||
Comments: You should be very, very proud of your wonderful performance as the
Countess. You were perfect in the role and sounded glorious.
You did great on your lines, too! I enjoyed helping you with that.
Claudia seems like an amazing person--so gracious and talented. Your
Figaro, Susanna and Marchellina were also marvelous. ]
|
Name: | Bob Campbell re: Marriage of Figaro |
Date: | 10/05/04 |
Comments:
Thanks. It was wonderful and fun and I fully enjoyed it. I was thrilled
to be there to hear and see you perform in an opera. It was great to see
a full house showing there is a demand for opera in Orange County. I hope
there are many more operas performed locally. |
Name: | Anne (Karadontes) Maus/ Stained Glass Artist re: Performance at Peez Leweez |
Date: | 8/15/04 |
Comments: I am still on a high today from your
performance and our chat before and after your show last night at Peez Leweez.
Your singing and music is stunning and you are Blessed with enormous talent that
you are so willing to share. I'm glad we got to know each other better and look
forward to your next performance - most likely at the Taverna in
October. |
Name: | Spiro Cardamis/ Greek composer re: Evening at Satalla, NYC | ||||||||||||
Date: | 6/16/04 | ||||||||||||
Comments: Julaki....THANK you for your invaluable, irreplaceable offer at my show at Satalla. NEW MILLENNIUM sounded fantastic & so did HYMN OF THOUGHT.....You are getting better & better & better & better & better .......for spirit knows no boundaries..you go girl...filia & lots of love from your pal ....spiro
|
Name: | Barbara Navarro |
Date: | 4/25/04 re: An afternoon of songs in Spanish by Paula Mlyn |
Comments: You never cease to amaze me. You were truly
magnificent Sunday with your performance in Spanish. You sounded as if you came
from Spain and did such an outrageous portrayal. Bravo !!!! Your voice sends
chills throughout my body and I can listen to you in any language, any genre. I
love hearing you sing/perform. Paula also has a beautiful voice and she gave
such an excellent performance. I love the Bongos and he too gave an amazing
performance. Ken created a wonderful background with the guitar too.
Breathtaking - all of it. |
Name: | Mollie Muenzen |
Date:4/25/04 | re: An afternoon of songs in Spanish by Paula Mlyn |
Comments: Again, I want to express to you how wonderful your performance was
today. Your voice and stage presence were superb, and Paula's lovely songs are
perfect for you. When you sang together it was absolute beauty. Ken's
guitar work enhanced the show, as did the wonderful percussionist.
What a great amount of talent was up on that stage today! I am truly
in awe of Paula. If you could give me her address I would appreciate
it, so I can send her a note expressing our admiration. She said
she would give you a CD for me that has the song that made us all cry.
|
Name: | Martha Krall re: An afternoon of songs in Spanish by Paula Mlyn |
Date: | 4/25/04 |
Comments: Thank you so much for the most wonderful afternoon!! The music, words, voices,
brought tears to my eyes. Paula sings beautiful and Julie your spanish is just
incredible. Muchas gracias desde el fondo de mi corazon. Paula and you most
get together and record a CD.Hope to see you very soon!! Have a great
week. Martha Krall |
Name: | Astrid & Horst Volmann re: Bodles show |
Date: | 2/15/04 |
Comments: We had a great evening at Bodles and enjoyed your performance tremendously!
Ken's songs are so poetic and we hope more and more people will become
aware of your talents and enjoy your music.We are sending you both our
heartfelt greeting. |
Name: | Barbara Navarro re: Bodles show |
Date: | 2/10/04 |
Comments: You and Ken were outstanding despite his laryngitis and soreness and of
course, the good ole weather situation. Your choices of songs were
superb and your voice was outstanding as usual and I always appreciate
the "Dylan" song. When you sing Great Neck Farewell - I
always tear up as you do.....stunning. Ken is a truly sensitive writer
yet he also adds some humor and light-heartedness which adds to a great
performance.You have become quite the "entertainers" and put
on the most awesome show. |
Name: | Jeanne Paff- Board of Newburgh Symphony re: Montgomery classical recital |
Date: | 1/21/04 |
Comments: We really enjoyed your concert last Sunday. The 3 of you seemed to
enjoy all your "work". We took a friend and she was thrilled.
Thank you so much for just being such a down-to-earth you and for staying
in our area and sharing your wonderful voice. |
Name: | Irene Karteri re: "Joy to the World" concert with the Festival Theater of NY |
Date: | 12/23/03 |
Comments: Dearest Julie, I was thrilled to see you and hear you perform at Sunday's
concert! Your crystalline voice made the glass windows of this historic
church vibrate, as it did the hearts of those fortunate to hear you perform
by attending this treasured concert. Thank you for inviting us, giving
us the opportunity to be part of this rare event. I had not discovered your website until now that you directed me to it through your webpage link. The picture of you and Ken is great looking, and the home page is welcoming and attractive. I'll take a tour, hear your and Ken's music, read the song lyrics, and discover your new CD. Congratulations, Julie, on your newest recording, "Simply Mavroudis!" I'd like to buy a CD for us and a few more as gifts. Congratulations, again, and may the new year inspire more recordings, more professional success, and lots of love and joy for you and Ken. |
Name: | Don Slepian re: Art Music Coffeehouse |
Date: | 11/21/03 |
Comments:
Could we host the two of
you for our March 3rd show? Your music together is truly
wonderful! Your performance with
Spiro is up in our archives section - the recording came out very well. I will
be sending audio CDs to Spiro shortly. It was a great musical
night.
|
Name: | Betty Altman / Folk singer, re: Sanctuary Coffeehouse |
Date: | 10/19/03 |
Comments: Dear Ken and Julie, I was present for your show last night at the UU and
I just wanted to let you know how moved I was. Your guitar work was synchronized
and your voices blended like 2 seagulls flying parallel. I had a lump in
my throat when Julie sang the song about her old house. I grew up in West
Islip, LI and I also miss my old home....But I sat back and took it all
in and I thoroughly enjoyed your performance. It was such a treat for my
ears and my soul. I wish you both the best of luck together musically as
well as in your life journey. I long for the kind of connection you two
have... and it was such a special thing to witness it and fell connected
to your songs. Please keep me posted on upcoming performances and gatherings.Great
job songwriting, too!!!! Peace and harmony, Betty Altman |
Name: | Petros Hatjopoulos /pianist /composer |
Date: | 10/20/03 |
Comments: Guys, this is beautiful music you 've created and so lovingly and classily
and awesomely performed, I really am honored to be your friend and colleague. |
Spiros Cardamis / Greek composer | |
Date: | 10/24/03 |
Comments: Ela Julie...KALH ARXH......POLY SYMPATHITIKO KAI ZESTO WEBSITE.......Great
reviews.....KALH SYNEXEIA!!! Thanx for the link.......Congrats to you &
Ken.....keep it up guys!! Plz tell Ken I loved his unassuming poetry ,very troubadourlike...LOvvvved the "#3. Take Me For What I Am" compact,to the heart of the matter& so poetic!! & troubadourishHHHH!!!......also the explanations liven up the site.........the song introducing your website is PERFECT.......It really welcomes the viewer plus defining your essence.....good job! |
Name: | Rachel Bertoni / Bertoni Gallery |
Date: | 10/24/03 |
Comments: Just thought I'd let you guys know I got you in the
Warwick Advertiser this week. I sent out press releases and photos and they
picked you up. I'll see if I can get or at least show you a copy. You'll get a
kick out of what I wrote! Thanks again for helping us make our event in Sugar
Loaf a success. You were the hit of the show! No kidding! |
Name: | WILLY/JOE WALLENDAL |
Date: | 11/13/10 |
Comments: GREAT
WEB SITE. WE BOOK MARKED IT. WE PLAY YOUR CD OFTEN AND LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR NEW ONE.BEST
REGARDS. |
Name: | Howard Garrett / Grand Montgomery Chamber Music Series, re: website |
Date: | 10/30/03 |
Comments: Really very nice and professional.. Congratulations- I am going to forward
it to my kids and some friends. |
Name: | Rochelle Serlin |
Date: | 11/11/03 |
Comments: I have never missed Julie Ziavras's concerts in NY and I always enjoyed
her unique style, her pure vocal sound, her exquisite training, woven into
a fine tapestry of both historical, classical Greek renditions-yet keeping
the contemporary heart in mind as well. Her classical training, her command
of the guitar, and voice is a thrill to listen to. This CD captures the
soul of the poetry of the Ancient Greek Heritage exemplified by Mavroudis,
as well as the voice and sound of neo-classical hearts of all mankind.
One doesn't have to even understand the language to experience the feeling.
The melody and translations included personifies the experience. Her voice
leaves one breathless. Congratulations, Julie, you certainly did it again.
Bravo, Julie, Bravo!!! |
Name: | Bob DeGraw / Mane Event Productions |
Date: | 11/03 |
Comments: It was great to see your beautiful mugs on the web, and to see that you
included some of our accolades and our link. I listened to your (Greek)
songs last night, and "Love Ode" stood out as a personal favorite.
Because I am not personally familiar with this style of music it did take
quite a bit of time to research, but it was worth it. I listened
to a lot more than just you, and I found a lot of good Greek music on the
Internet, which helped me to form an opinion. For most of the CD
you seem to be pretty faithful in your use of traditional instruments;
where I think I noticed the greatest difference between yours and other
similar recordings was in your vocal style. Yours is smoother and more
melodic. I found your voice to be silkier, more engaging and sweeter
to my ear. O.K., that's enough, but thank you for producing such a magnificent product. I hope that it will receive the attention that it deserves. Best success. |