Grace

Soprano Greta Bradman's iPod reveals a diverse taste in music, as does her album 'Grace', the follow up to her ARIA-nominated debut 'Forest of Dreams'. "While pure classical repertoire is my core passion and career, when I'm out for a run and plugged into my iPod, I can be equally inspired by Handel or Coldplay," says the singer. "It was important to me in recording Grace to honour my musical roots and experience, as well as explore songs from other genres that I believe would touch or inspire the listener."

In compiling a track list, the concept of 'hope' was foremost in Greta's mind. For a some years Greta balanced duals professions as musician and psychologist, which has given her some insights into the power of hope and of music. "I experienced first-hand through my work how people in all sorts of challenging circumstances can rise from the ashes and change their own lives when they hold onto a sense a hope. This for me is the ultimate expression of grace."

Having auditioned with no formal singing training at all, Greta went on to graduate with distinction from the Elder Conservatorium in her hometown of Adelaide. She has emerged as one of the leading young sopranos in her generation and the magazine Limelight declared her the singer for the shortlist of 2010 Best Newcomers in the industry. Since turning to a full-time music career, she has found herself in high demand, regularly performing as a soloist with major orchestras and classical ensembles, and signing a major recording deal with Sony Music Australia. She is now based in Melbourne where she lives with her husband and two small sons.

One of the very special moments on 'Grace' is the poignant Pie Jesu from Andrew Lloyd-Webber's Requiem, which Greta sang at Sir Donald's memorial service in 2001. Other tracks include Handel's breathtaking Lascia chi'io pianga, from the opera Rinaldo and the shimmering Song to the Moon from Dvořák's Rusalka. Another stand out is the ethereal Ave Maria once attributed to the baroque composer Caccini, but now believed to have been penned in Russia in 1970. Songs with great heart from the world of musicals and film also been included, such as Music of the Night from Phantom of the Opera, When You Believe from The Prince of Egypt and the haunting Gortoz a Ran from the film Black Hawk Down. For Grace Greta teamed with John Foreman and Chong Lim, two of the most respected musical directors, producers and arrangers in the country.

'Grace' is the work of an exceptional vocalist who sings from the heart and without doubt, many people will listen.