-Matt Warren, married at the Stimson-Green Mansion, Seattle, WA
"We wanted to let you know how appreciative we are of your help in making our day special! You were wonderful and your music enhanced our evening tremendously! Thank you so very much!"
-G. and J. Ranf, married at the Sorrento Hotel, Seattle WA
"Your performances were terrific. Your talent was not only appreciated by the public and myself but Millstone Coffee Co. was extremely pleased, as well"
-D. Mitchell, Festivals, Inc. Bite of Seattle
"Hill's music made our visits fun"
-Bart Ripp, Restaurant Critic-The News Tribune
"Thank you again for playing for us on Easter Sunday. The event was a complete success and your presence was the highlight of the evening"
-K. Wilson, Dining Room Manager-The Rainier Club, Seattle
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Major Influences:
Oscar Peterson, Nat King Cole, George Shearing, Art Tatum, Michel Petrucciani, Chick Corea, Russell Ferrante (of the Yellowjackets), Eliane Elias and Michel Camilo, Stevie Wonder and Felix Mendelssohn.
Early Training:
Cara began playing at the age of 4. Along the way, she memorized thousands of classics and popular song titles. She won many musical awards, including the Arion Award -- the oldest and most prestigous national award for outstanding musical achievement by promising new performers, as well as accomplished musicians who have made a significant contribution to music culture.
Higher Education (B.A. from University of Washington):
While at the University of Washington, Cara recorded an album and backed up dance companies while studying classical and jazz in its many forms. Her studies included works by Thellonius Monk, Charlie Parker, and J.S. Bach, among others. She has studied with the following well-known music professionals:
- Dave Barduhn (former pianist with the Stan Kenton Orchestra)
- Roy Cummings (performed with Tony Bennett and Wayne Newton)
- Tom Collier (performed with Frank Zappa, Natalie Cole, and Diane Schuur)
- Patricia Michaelian ("A Major Artist"-New York Times)
- Barney McClure (performed with jazz luminaries Milt Jackson and Bud Shank)
Professional Experience:
From the age of 18, Cara played in various professional situations including:
- A variety/show band which opened for Jerry Lee Lewis and Bill Cosby
- Toured the Pacific Northwest, California and Alaska with critically acclaimed funk/show groups
- Pianist for the biggest smash in Seattle theater history, "Angry Housewives"
Cara later returned to Seattle with her husband, Steve Hill, also an accomplished musician. She is currently working as a top pianist for private parties and in Seattle's finest establishments.