C E L I E H O L M E S
Celie Holmes' fluid, effortless singing style and relaxed stage presence lend themselves perfectly to small or medium venues and intimate gatherings. Examples of her favorite places to sing are wineries, restaurants and private parties. Cocktail hour, and receptions at weddings with 100 or fewer guests are favorites, too.
Her vocal stylings are accompanied by superb custom arrangements by musician and arranger extraordinaire, Alan McPike.
Celie creates her own non-standard compositions, too! Check her out on Reverbnation.
About Celie
Celie Holmes has been singing since before she could whistle, and learned to whistle at the grand old age of four. She loves the vast wealth of the American Songbook, and shares her favorite songs with audiences in and around the Roanoke Valley.
Self-taught on guitar, and educated in music theory, violin, and voice beginning in primary school, Celie has a depth of knowledge and appreciation of many genres of music – from folk and Americana, to Blues, Pop, Classical, and Jazz in its many forms. She directs two a capella groups, sings in a mixed barbershop quartet, performs with the Sway Katz Big Band, and writes songs. Her poignant ballad “Sorry Now” was a finalist in the Richard Leigh Song Contest in 2019.
Vocal influences are many, including Carmen McRae, Blossom Dearie, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Doris Day, Frank Sinatra, Karen Carpenter, Diana Krall, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kurt Elling.
Celie's performances are tailored to each venue and audience, in her inimitable relaxed and engaging style. Audiences love her winning smile and smooth, lyrical singing technique. Celie relishes learning new arrangements and bringing her personal touch to the standards.
Her take on the Great American Songbook is perfect for cocktail hour, fine restaurants, wineries, and your private event. Contact her now.
Celie also loves photography! Keep up with her on Instagram
What Folks are Saying
"Every song is flawless. Almost cried I liked it so much!" ~ Melanie R.
"Effortless! Wonderful voice! You should book her now!" - Kris S.
"She's a cross between a female Frank Sinatra and Diana Krall." - Linda M.
"Celie does Summertime like nobody else!" ~ Melissa R.
"As a travel nurse and a music fanatic, I've heard a lot of music. Celie by far is one of the best!" ~ Tracy B.
"Wonderful performance!" ~ Xinia D.
"If you like smooth romantic jazz vocals, Celie's jazz is a 'Must Not Miss Show'. I'm coming back for more!" ~ Mark S.
"Relaxing and smoooth ... a great voice!" ~ Tim R.
"Beautiful voice and superb accompaniment." ~ Patricia J.
"Celie's music is exactly the sound that I want for my winery."
~ Joyce Beliveau, Beliveau Estate Winery
Cocktail Hour
Wineries
Restaurants
Dinner Parties
Vocal Instruction
Celie loves sharing her knowledge of music and healthy singing with others. She specializes in helping adult students "find their voice", whatever their experience and skill level. She offers voice lessons and coaching via Zoom and in her home studio.
Students are grateful for the healthy techniques she teaches to make singing an easy and painless experience. Celie follows her mantra that "Singing should be easy, pleasurable, and freeing!"