This Day by Amy Heard

This year, she gained 13 nominations at the 2005 Detroit Music Awards in Acoustic/Folk, Pop/Rock, and Christian/Gospel. Last year, after being nominated for seven awards, she walked away with awards for Outstanding Christian Vocalist and Outstanding Christian Songwriter.

Amy Heard grew up in the small town of Macomb, Illinois. She was placed under vocal instruction at Western Illinois University at the age of twelve, after her parents heard her unexpected solo in an eighth grade musical. She soon gained early acceptance into W.I.U., where she performed with the University Dance Theatre and the Summer Music Theatre, and continued to study voice and guitar, all while still in High School. The papers called her a "triple threat talent" and she was awarded "Best Actress" and "Best Vocal Performance" awards by the Thespian Society for her role as "Adelaide" in "Guys and Dolls".

After a transfer to Oakland University in Rochester Hills, Michigan, she attained a Bachelor of Music with minors in Theatre and Dance. While at O.U., Amy received a full tuition scholarship to perform with the Meadow Brook Estate, a professional, touring show choir. She also preformed with the Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Oakland Chorale and a barbershop quartet, as well as many theatrical productions. Heard's portrayal of Julie Andrews' "Polly Browne" in "The Boyfriend" brought O.U. to the American College Theatre Festival (ACTFA) competition for the first time since the 1970's.

As for Heard's plans for the future, she is seeking a record contract. "I hope to bring something new and refreshing to the music industry, something that will get people thinking about their direction in life", says Amy. "I don't believe in coincidence or luck, but I do believe in miracles. If I could play a role in just one of those miracles, I have lived a wonderful life."

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