Celebrated countertenor Terry Barber is a familiar face – and voice – at performance venues in South Florida.
Not long ago, he hooked up with a couple of other vocalists to form a new group and create a new production that is already booked for shows in Vienna, Montreal and London.
But Barber, who sang lead at a concert featuring songs by Freddy Mercury and Queen last October at the Black Box Theatre in Boca Raton, has decided to launch his newest venture closer to home with shows at two Sunshine State locations — April 21 in Stuart and April 22 in Aventura.
Barber is one of three singers in a new group, EleMenTrio, an ensemble of artists who “combine three distinct vocal timbres, delivering lush vocal melodies and creating a metamorphosis of sound unlike any other men’s vocal group.”
He said each member of EleMenTrio – Victor Valdez, Vincent Connor and himself – “has a wealth of experience in various genres. Together, we will create a blend that is heart-warming, satisfying and inspiring.”
Members of EleMenTrio, from left, Victor Valdez, Vincent Connor and Terry Barber. (Courtesy of Terry Barber)
“Each distinct voice and personality,” he said, “reflects connection to an element — water, spirit earth – as they deliver moving, power ballads and modern contemporary hits.”
“Appealing to both the typical mature audience as well as younger generations, EleMenTrio sings beautifully crafted original arrangements of classics like ‘Danny Boy,’ ‘You Raise Me Up’ and ‘Music of the Night’ from ‘Phantom of the Opera.’”
“We will also be presenting unique versions of current radio hits and classic rock tunes by Journey, Aerosmith and Air Supply, among others.”
EleMenTrio’s personnel include:
Connor, artistic director of two international festivals. His bold delivery as a singing actor earned him opportunities in opera, musical theater and television. Co-creator of Mad Hatter the Musical which debuted in London’s West End, Vincent has directed more than 40 operas and musicals worldwide.
Valdez, a Latin American tenor currently touring his own programs. He eventually moved to the US where he has performed more than 1,000 solo shows, appearing with symphonies and on cabaret and musical theater stages from Miami’s Arsht Center to London’s Leicester Square Theatre.
Barber is a past member of the multiple Grammy-winning men’s vocal ensemble, Chanticleer. He has also been a soloist around the globe from the Metropolitan Opera to Moscow’s Svetlanov Hall. He can be heard on recordings with performers from Madonna, Jewel, Chaka Khan and Cyndi Lauper to the London Philharmonic.
“Even though we are all recognized as soloists, it is our collective sound as a trio that inspires our listeners,” said Connor. “We are creating a fun, refreshing atmosphere for our audience to connect with us and our music.”
“The name, ‘EleMenTrio,’ may be worth explaining,” said Barber. “It’s really a triple entendre, if you will. Of course, we are a trio of men, but also, each of us identifies with a different element and we recognize that, as humans, our connection with music is instinctual, basic and elemental.”
Members of EleMenTrio are shown making a video of the Journey song, “Open Arms.” (Courtesy of Terry Barber)