B A C K G R O U N D
Rising McDowell was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She began her studies in piano performance at 6 years old under the instruction of Juilliard alumna Virginia Whitehead. With over 12 years of intensive study in sight-reading, music theory, and dynamic expression, Rising developed an acute artistic sensitivity that won her numerous first place prizes at regional competitions throughout the state of California.
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Rising's vocal training began at the age of 11 with her acceptance to the Los Angeles Children's Chorus, one of the nation's leading treble choirs. Under acclaimed artistic director Anne Tomlinson, Rising had the honor to perform with the LA Philharmonic Orchestra, the LA Master Chorale, the Pasadena Symphony, and other ensembles at venues including the Hollywood Bowl and Walt Disney Concert Hall. During her 7 years with LACC, Rising joined several international tours and performed in Finland, Sweden, Estonia, South Africa, and Canada. She went on to sing with the University of Colorado at Boulder Collegiate Chorale.
F O R E G R O U N D
As a professional pianist Rising offers a repertoire of classical, romantic, impressionistic, contemporary, jazz, and popular pieces that soothe the soul with serenity and wistfulness. Listeners have described her playing as "captivating," "magical," and as if it transports them to another world—one where the everyday stresses of life are washed away.
Her repertoire currently includes pieces by Chopin, Ravel, Debussy, Fauré, Satie, Kabalevsky, Tchaikovsky, Granados, and works by contemporary composers Joep Beving, Henry Mancini, Isham Jones, Alan Menken, Eric Whitacre, Louis Guglielmi, and others.
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As a vocalist Rising has performed a cappella, solo with keyboard, and with guitarists and small bands at occasions such as weddings and private parties; festivals and open-air markets; fine dining establishments and intimate cafe settings.
Her sound is inspired by soul & jazz icons Etta James, Billie Holiday, Amy Winehouse, and Lianne La Havas; other favorite influences include Gregory Alan Isakov, Passenger, Fleet Foxes, Matt Corby, Lizzy McAlpine, and bossa nova legend João Gilberto. She is currently based in Austin, TX and performs solo with her keyboard and with her partner in their acoustic duo, Kitcher & Rising.
Performing with Kitcher at The Reserve at Lake Austin
Live at Vino Volo Wine Bar in Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Sharing a moment with a resident at Tech Ridge Oaks Retirement Community
Connecting with a Resident at Ledgestone Senior Living after Mother's Day Piano Showcase
Performing on the Steinway & Sons Grand Piano at Longhorn Village in Steiner Ranch, Austin TX
