The Muses

Talented, fun, and thoroughly entertaining, the Muses have been engaging audiences with an eclectic musical repertoire since 2001. This three-woman a cappella powerhouse sings an ingenious mix of Celtic, traditional Appalachian, Americana, and World Music. Their repertoire covers a wide range and includes original compositions, spirituals, soul numbers, and songs from Scotland and Ireland. Blending their voices into perfect harmony, the Muses create a rich tapestry of sound. The group is happy to tailor its choice of material to suit the unique nature of each venue or event.

Based in Asheville, North Carolina, the Muses have performed at clubs, festivals, radio stations, restaurants, schools and universities. The release of their first CD, Angel (July 2003), extended their audience base far beyond the borders of their home state. The Muses are pleased to announce the release of their second CD, Celtic Hillbilly Soul(January 2007).

Natalie Grinnell: A true songbird, Natalie is originally from Durham, North Carolina by way of Omaha, Nebraska. A veteran of musical theater, she now brings drama to the Muses with her powerful voice and vibrant on-stage presence. Natalie is also a make-up artist and Nia instructor.

Gail Forsyth: Gail is from Aberdeen, Scotland, and brings to the group not only her lovely, nuanced voice, but also her passion for Celtic music. Gail balances her musical life with a career as both a speech and language pathologist and massage therapist. She is also an avid photographer and provides the images for the Muses' CD art.

Judy Rhodes: Judy was born into a family that has lived in Western North Carolina for seven generations and for whom music is a family tradition. A gifted songwriter and arranger, Judy often draws on her Appalachian heritage to create inspiring and timeless songs. Judy's musical career has led to international recognition, including performances at the Dalai Lama's "World Festival of Sacred Music" in Bangalore, India. Judy is also a professional piano teacher and choir director.

The Muses have performed publicly at dozens of venues in Asheville, North Carolina and the surrounding region, including the following.

• Lake Eden Arts Festival (LEAF), Asheville
• Bele Chere Festival, Asheville
• First Night Asheville
• Tosco Music Party, Spirit Square, Charlotte
• Biltmore Estate, Asheville
• Harrah's Casino, Cherokee
• The Orange Peel, Asheville
• The Grey Eagle, Asheville
• The Purple Onion, Asheville
• Organicfest, Asheville
• Acoustic Coffeehouse, Johnson City, Tennessee
• East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, Tennessee
• Celtic Festival, Cary
• Karmasonics, Asheville
• Soco Moon Café and Teahouse, Waynesville
• WestFest, Asheville
• Greening Up the Mountains Festival, Sylva
• Cinema in the Park, Asheville
• Balsam Mountain Inn, Balsam
• First Friday Festival, Dillsboro
• The Swannanoa Gathering, Swannanoa
• WCQS radio station (Country Roots Show, live performance)
• Swain County Center for the Arts, Bryson City
• Carolina Day School, Asheville (educational performance/program)
• Private parties and functions, including local charity events

“The strength and depth of [the Muses'] sound takes the art of the unaccompanied voice to wonderful places, and their selection of material is eclectic, surprising, and entertaining.” — Tony Kiss, Arts and Entertainment editor, Asheville Citizen-Times

“The Muses' combined voices create a joyful noise... listen well and you'll hear rowdy political convictions driving those lovely pipes. The group focuses on culturally vital folk music rooted in Appalachia and points far beyond. Judging by the strength of their voices alone... the Muses' sound is equal to Bele Chere's hectic party vibe.” — Melanie McGee, Arts & Entertainment editor, Mountain Xpress

“I find the recording [of Angel, The Muses' debut CD] very beautiful and many of the selections inspirational. I'm very proud that this is an Asheville product. The Muses have amused me and placed another muse on my shoulder. Thanks for the gift.” — John Cram, owner, Blue Spiral Gallery, New Morning Gallery, and the Fine Arts Theater in Asheville

For more information about the Muses or to book the group for an event, please contact Judy Rhodes at 828.687.0833 or Gail Forsyth at 828.776.1558. You can also reach them by e-mail at ashevillemuses@hotmail.com or visit their website at www.ashevillemuses.com. Be sure to visit their MySpace page at http://www.myspace.com/themusesasheville.