June Garber singer/songwriter/ performer

My father, Eric Garber died in a plane crash when I was only 3 years old. Even sadder, in our “new” family we were never allowed to talk about him. Quite late in my life I found out he was a phenomenal Jazz drummer, and I believe that’s where my passion for music comes from. I know he would have encouraged me to follow my dreams of becoming a singer. Among my earliest memories, from age 4, are performances for friends of my mother and stepfather in home concerts, and dancing in many festivals totally in my element! Imagine my shock to find out as I grew older that my career choice of being on stage was not going to be condoned or encouraged by my parents. Instead, I was steered into a teaching career. Honourable, yes; but not my first love. However, the desire to be performing on stage never left me. I never gave up on my dream! I persevered and finally, after moving from South Africa to Canada, I made it onto the stage. I have never felt more joy and freedom than when I am singing. There is nothing more wonderful than to connect with the musicians who are sharing the music with you. And then comes the ultimate ... sharing that magic with your audience. For me it means “inhabiting” a song. I choose only songs that connect to my soul whether it be a ballad or an up-tempo tune, you have to connect to a song, otherwise how can you possibly share it with your audience? I think this is a vital part of performance

Finally, what is of supreme importance, is to have a partner in your life who shares in your own desires, and who is supportive of them I haven’t always had that, but now I am fortunate enough to have a husband who not only shares in what I do, but pushes me forward and encourages me to share my talent. This is the ultimate partnership that you could ever ask for.