The CD "I am here" is a collection of original compositions that came about as a result of life-threatening neck fractures sustained by Kathryn Cooke while mountain biking in Moab, Utah in October 2003. The songs speak of human tragedy, human relationships, and the possibility of overcoming life's challenges. Featured are Montreal vocalist, Sienna Dahlen, and some of Canada's finest pop/jazz musicians.

"Few recordings have as interesting a back story as I am here - Songs of Kathryn Cooke & Jo-Anne Belvedere. Fortunately, the music is as good as the tale is unique. . . a pleasant on-the-ears blend of roots, folk, and even R&B".

Mark Rheaume
CBC Radio
Toronto, Ontario
Canada

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The Songwriters ...

Jo-Anne Belvedere is a guitarist and songwriter originally from Montreal, Quebec who has lived in Canmore, Alberta since 1988. She studied classical, fingerstyle, and jazz guitar while successfully completing music studies at Vanier College in Montreal, obtaining both a Diploma in Music, and Diploma in Popular/Jazz Music. Further music studies were continued at Concordia University.

She has taught extensively and her performance experience includes work as a solo artist, as part of a flute and guitar duo, and as part of a pop/folk/vocal group. She has been playing guitar and composing music for almost four decades.

Kathryn Cooke is a pediatrician, and a mother of four who has lived in Canmore since 1995. She is an avid ski racer, mountain biker, and marathon runner. "I am here" represents her lyrical and musical debut, and first collaberation with guitarist Jo-Anne Belvedere.

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