Bree Noble: ENDORSEMENTS & PRESS

JEN: Your new album Healing Waters is very open and
honest! It’s an album you could give to a friend to
encourage them to remind them God is there rock. So
what inspired this album?

BREE: The album’s major themes all relate in some way to the title track. That was a song I wrote while in a very dark place. I was lying in a hospital bed for 13 days wondering if I would ever regain my strength and get my “normal” life back. I started to feel that I had reached a turning point in my life where I could either “hope for the best”, or have real faith that God would heal me. I wanted God to show me the purpose or call He has for me. During that time he gave me the lyrics and music for that song. Then He did heal me and over the next year he brought people into my life and circumstances that showed me was He was calling me to do-to not just make music, but to make a ministry of speaking and singing to audiences that needed to hear the message. Most of the songs on the album involve trusting God in times of trial or uncertainty and getting out of one’s comfort zone to follow God’s call.

JEN: My favorite song is You Are My Vision, can you tell
me how that song came together?

BREE: I’d like to say I wrote this song, but I didn’t. But I was lucky enough to come across the writers at the right time and it has become an integral part of my ministry-my speaking presentation is named after the song. Music was written by my producer Allan Licht and lyrics were written by a veteran lyric writer from New York, Dianne Baumgartner. I originally demoed the song for Allan in the studio as a duet which eventually led to our working relationship and his offer to produce my album. Dianne had written the lyrics from the perspective of an individual going blind, talking to God about how He had given her vision as she lost her physical sight. She and I had a lot in common, although my sight has remained legally blind since birth, at age 17 I lost all sight in my right eye. I really identified with the lyrics and it was a must that I record the song for the album.

JEN: Which song on Healing Waters is your personal
favorite and why?

My personal favorite has to be “Why Can’t I Go Home” which was based on a poem written by my aunt Carol Park about my Grandmother’s battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. It is so touching to listen to and even more powerful to perform on stage. At ever performance (almost without fail) even in the smallest coffee shop I get someone coming up to me telling me how the lyrics touched them because they have dealt with the disease with a family member. I was able to sing the song at my Grandmother’s funeral in October which was a sad and joyful event. She had finally gone home.

JEN: You mentioned Jenny Owens as one of your
inspirations, what is your favorite album by her?

BREE: It’s really a toss up for me between Ginny’s first two albums “Without Condition” and “Something More”. I love the simplicity of songs like “All I Wanna Do”, the groove of songs like “Free” and “Springs Of Life” and the depth of “True Story”.

JEN: How can people purchase your album and book you to
minister in song in their venue?

BREE: You can do everything on my website: http://www.breenoble.com . The older CDs are on CD Baby and iTunes and the newest CD “Healing Waters” is available through www.indieheaven.com but all of these are linked from my website. There is a booking contact area as well as a mailing list which I use to send out monthly updates on performances, radio interviews, press, etc.

JEN: Outside of your music, one of the beautiful things
about you is the way you have embraced life looking
beyond your blindness. Can you tell me how you not
only grew up to be an inspiration to others, but why
it’s so important for you to reach out to people with
the same challenges?

BREE: My family played a big role in this. They never categorized me as “disabled” or “different”. I think they just though of it as a challenge to overcome. I was given all the visual aids and special training they could find to help me live alongside fully sighted people. I went to public school, participated in sports and was luckily already academically motivated. I also managed to never take myself too seriously which allowed others to be more at ease with my visual difficulty. I found my niche in music and that along with academics allowed me to break out of any misconceptions about what people with visual impairments could accomplish. I have always been motivated to inspire others with similar obstacles, but only in the last year has God prompted me to go out and speak about it. I have spoken to many moms groups and been able to encourage moms that with God’s guidance they can have a major impact on how their children navigate the obstacles life puts in front of them. I want to do everything I can to help all people with visual or other impairments to reach their full potential.

JEN: What has been one your biggest internal struggles?

BREE: Knowing when to help people who are in trouble and when to use tough love to force them to help themselves. I want to help others as God commands us, but I don’t want to be an enabler of bad behavior and keep someone from seeking God for help.

JEN: When did you start singing?

BREE: I’ve been singing since age 3 and piano lesson at age 6, but performed a solo in my first musical at church at age 8-you know, Psalty Praise. In 7th grade I played the “Teen Angel” in Greece and performed “Beautiful School Dropout”. I really got heavily into singing in high school when I was in 4 performing ensembles including a women’s barbershop quartet.

JEN: How does it feel to stand there knowing so many
people are staring at you?

BREE: I really don’t think about it while on stage. I love being in front of people and communicating with them on stage.

JEN: What would you say makes you strong from the
inside out?

BREE: Knowing that God always listens to my prayers and knowing that my family-my Christian family-is always there to support me.

JEN: What keeps you motivated to worship the Lord?

BREE: The beauty of God’s creation around us always motivates me to worship-the amazing aspects of nature that greet us each morning when we wake up. Music and poetry are other ways that bring me closer to God in a different way than reading the Word which of course is always important.

JEN: How do you implement your challenge into your
music?

BREE: I have written a song specifically about dealing with that called “Running”. As far as how I physically deal with it, I always scout out the stage in advance, make sure there are no wires to trip on or stairs that I can’t see. It is sometimes hard meeting people after the show, but I always try to offer my hand first as not to offend people in case I don’t see them offer it to me.

JEN: What would say to others who may have physical
challenges who have lost hope?

BREE: Find your niche. Everyone has a talent. It may not be what you think everyone wants or expects. I know some visually impaired people who are fantastic radio personalities, writers and musicians. Without seeing them in person, I had no idea they were impaired in any way. There was a man I worked with on musical collaboration over the Internet who was quite talented. I collaborated with him for 6 months before I met him. When I did, I was shocked to find that he was paralyzed from the neck down! He was doing all his composing using speech software. After meeting him, I will never underestimate anyone’s talent again. If you have the desire, you can find the equipment, aids and personnel to make it happen.

JEN: Your album Healing Waters is truly a witness of
the love of God in your life. How do you keep that
intimate relationship with on the daily bases?

BREE: I wish I could say I had a regular quiet time. I do have that desire, but having a young child usually prevents that morning time. I try to pray as often as I can throughout the day and read the Word. What always amazes me about reading the Word is the way Jesus wasn’t “conservative” but totally radical in his living out the Gospel truths. He didn’t mince words and he didn’t let anyone get away with anything. Actually reading the words of Jesus brings me closer to him. Listening to music with a deep message of truth also helps bring me closer to Him.

JEN: As a mother, what would you tell other parents,
youth leaders, teachers and mentors who may not be
sure how they can encourage children and teenagers
with physical challenges who may have given up hope?

BREE: Seek out others in the same position-support groups of parents or groups for the children so they can feed off of the success of others and share strategies. There are groups in many areas like this. The groups share technology that can assist, help find fundraising to pay for the technology and teach life skills that are vital.

JEN: What would you say to others who have given up on
themselves, and they’re looking for God, but can’t
seem to find him?

BREE: I know it’s almost become a Christian cliché by now, but I really think The Purpose Driven Life is an important devotional for anyone who is searching for significance in life and to meet God on a personal level. It will steer you in the right direction with bible verses that will encourage you and practical thought guides on how to figure out what God means in your life and how to follow His plan. Also, find support groups or fellowship groups of people in similar life circumstances. I found a lot of comfort and support in my moms groups once I faced all the new challenges of having a child. We share what God has done in our lives and that helps encourage those who feel like they’ve lost sight of Him.

ARTIST'S SONG REACHES GENERATIONS

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MEAGAN CLEMENTS | staff writer

Christian musician Bree Noble won best female performer at the Inland Empire Music Awards.

Singer/songwriter Bree Noble won best female performer on Jan. 26 at the 2007 Inland Empire Music Awards held at the Key Club in Casino Morongo.

The music awards featured artists from the Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and although Noble was nominated alongside an array of musical genres and styles different from her own, she is grateful for the honor and thankful to have been selected.

“This is the biggest official award I’ve won,” Noble said.

Noble began her career singing worship music and later went on to star in a junior high school production of “Grease.”

Following her graduation from Thomas Downey High School, Noble enrolled in Westmont College in 1994 and sang in a contemporary Christian group.

Produced by Allan Licht, Noble released her third album “Healing Waters” in September 2006. Noble describes her music as lyric-driven pop/rock with a contemporary edge and plays piano on her new album.

“The album took about six months [to make] because I was only going in the studio a couple of Saturdays a month,” Noble said.

Noble took an original poem written by her aunt about her grandmother with Alzheimer’s disease and re-wrote it into lyrics.

She is inspired by the music of Five for Fighting, Jonatha Brooke and Sarah McLaughlin and hopes through her positive lyrics, to inspire future generations.

She has a message for aspiring artists who hope their “big break” will come sooner rather than later.

“Aspiring artists, especially when they’re good, think that someone’s going to find them. You have to be in it for the long haul,” Noble said.

In addition, Noble feels that many aspiring artists have no idea how much time, work or effort goes into being a musician, and would like them to understand that a lot of dedication and perseverance went into making her album.

“I’m very proud of what she has accomplished as a Christian artist. Her music honestly explores both the darkness of human suffering and the beauty of God’s redemption,” English professor and husband Chris Noble said. “She doesn’t sacrifice her artistry for the sake of providing simplistic answers, and she doesn’t compromise her Christian commitment for the sake of convenience.”

Noble, who is not in search of money or fame, feels that the play lists of many radio stations are not diverse enough, making it increasingly more difficult for artists to break into the industry.

“It doesn’t mean it can’t happen,” she said. “[For me] it did eventually. It just took an extra 10 years.”

Thankfully, internet stations and satellite radio have made it easier for Noble to share her gift of music with the world.

“I’ve been able to break in on internet stations and I’m glad there’s new formats out there like satellite radio,” Noble said. “I don’t want to be some big, huge person; I just want to be able to support what I love doing.”

Noble loves performing at churches and has co-written with senior music major Andrea Hamilton. Playing live also differs from recording in the studio.

“When you’re playing live it doesn’t have to be absolutely perfect,” Noble said.

Noble loves performing for small and large crowds alike. The smallest crowd she has performed for was six people, while the largest and most fun crowd she has performed for was an estimated 50,000 screaming Dodgers fans at a July 2006 game where she sang the National Anthem. If she had to choose, her ideal audience to perform for would be 50-300 people.

Although Noble does not have much time for hobbies, the few that she does have time for include spending time with her three and a half year-old daughter Julia and going out to eat with friends at nice restaurants.

Five years from now, Noble would like to be a part of women’s retreats and make music on a little more of a national scale.

“I’m not a Christian songwriter, but a songwriter who’s Christian,” Noble said.

Music Through The Eyes Of Faith


Bree Noble is a businesswoman, singer-songwriter and speaker. She is a woman of strong faith, a wife of a College Professor and a mother. She is also legally blind and has been since birth. But unlike others who may have deemed this an insurmountable obstacle on their path, Bree has managed to overcome this physical disability, and continues to embrace her journey with confidence, conviction and the inner strength that comes from above..

Bree Noble was born with congenital glaucoma. This means that she did not have the ducts necessary to allow fluid to pass in and out of the eye, which caused pressure to rise, and Bree to lose a great deal of her sight while still in the womb. By the time she was two, she had undergone numerous surgeries; however, she still remained legally blind. By utilizing reading aids, Bree learned to grow up with glaucoma. She attended local public schools because her parents believed it was best for her to be integrated with other children and she found that she enjoyed it as well. She had a resource teacher that helped her with the simple basics such as learning how to cross the street and catch a bus and she became involved in sports and whatever else she could manage like her peers.

When she was a senior in high school, it became necessary for Bree to have additional surgery on her right eye because the pressure wasn’t being controlled. During the surgery, something went horribly wrong, causing hemorrhaging and permanent damage to the retina. Consequently, Bree completely lost all sight in her right eye. Although she never regained sight in that eye, Bree eventually recovered from the surgery, returned to school and was able to graduate at the top of her class.

Up to this point and throughout her high school years, music was a big part of Bree’s life, so when it came time for picking a college she chose Westmont, a liberal arts college located in Santa Barbara, CA, where she could also study music. Being a small school, Westmont afforded Bree the opportunity to obtain individualized attention from her professors, who even allowed her to take exams in her dorm room so she could use her large print reading machine. The accommodating nature of both the professors and the school proved to be instrumental support in a journey that most would find daunting.

While at school, Bree played the keyboard and sang with a performing ensemble, Zephaniah that traveled all over the western states. Although she yearned to be a musician or vocalist, Bree knew she had to be practical. Her solution was to work toward a business degree that would allow her to find a job after graduation, as well as obtain a degree in the discipline of her heart’s choosing, music. After graduating, Bree secured a job in the accounting field and worked on her music on the side. She eventually managed to land a position seemingly tailor-made for her and from 1999 to 2004, was the Director of Finance at an Opera company. She states, “Now I could use all of my music knowledge and get front row seats to every opera!” This has worked for her so well that even when she had her daughter Julia in 2003 and found that trying to split a full-time work load between home and the office was just too much, she was then able to execute a graceful exit from her job and facilitated an arrangement whereby she could continue as a consultant part-time from home. This one-year supposition has blossomed into a three-year reality.

Throughout all of this time, Bree had not forgotten her first calling of music and was writing and recording whenever she could find the time in her home studio. Once she had her daughter, she found she had to cut back; however, as soon as her child began to get older, she looked into going back out and performing again. She became co-leader of the worship team at her church, Glendora United Methodist. Then after hearing God’s call to share her musical message of hope with others, she began performing at local churches, coffee shops and festivals. Over the last few years, her music ministry has grown to include appearances at women’s groups, moms’ groups and community organizations where she gives her presentation You Are My Vision which blends music and personal stories and testimony about growing up visually impaired.

The Modesto native has produced three solo CDs to date: Overwhelmed (2002), a Christian Contemporary album, Can You See the Stars (2004), which features inspirational music and love songs, and her newest CD Healing Waters released in September 2006. Bree was named Best Female Performer at the Inland Empire music Awards in January, 2007. This was a significant award for Bree because the contest attracted performers throughout the area east of Los Angeles in every genre of music-not just Christian music.

In July 2006 Bree was honored to perform the national anthem in front of 56,000 people at Dodger Stadium. Bree says of the experience, “I had a blast! The Dodgers’ representatives were great and the organist was flawless. It was an unforgettable experience rehearsing in the press box and out on the field during batting practice. I prayed for peace two seconds before I opened my mouth and God answered prayer. He replaced all my nerves with joy. And my family and I had a great time at the game too. The Dodgers slaughtered the Nationals, which began a lengthy winning streak.

Bree states that the main challenge she found on her journey was the fact that she has never been able to drive, especially now that she is a parent. To counteract this difficulty, she and her husband found a house that was centrally located and from which she could walk within 20 to 30 minutes to most places that she would need. As is customary for Bree, she alters this negative into a positive. She states, “I use this as a bonding time with my three year-old daughter Julia. We walk and we talk about what we see, (we) have conversations together. Julia is very verbal and I attribute that to all of the conversations we’ve had while we walked.” Bree has also been blessed with willing supporters within her church and community that accompany her to her ministry events. She also tours often in northern California where many family members live and can travel with her to events. “God has given me the desire to bring a message to people and a way to make it happen despite my disability. He has been so faithful!”

For more information on Bree Noble’s music & speaking ministry visit www.breenoble.com.

1. How old were you when you started singing?

I always loved to sing along with the radio, but my "solo debut" was
in a Psalty Praise musical at church at age 8. I really came into my
own in music in my high school year when I was in 4 performing
ensembles including a female barbershop quartet. In college I honed
my craft as a soloist in the school's touring Contemporary Christian
band, Zephaniah.

2. How many years have you been playing the piano?

I started playing at age 6. I took lessons for about 6 years and
then continued playing on my own and writing songs on the piano.

3. Who are the music artists that had the greatest influence on your
music?

Nichole Nordeman, Ginny Ownes, Sara Groves, Margaret Becker, Five For
Fighting, Jonatha Brooke, Sarah McLachlan

4. What is the most important lesson you've learned as an independent
music artist?

As an independent, you can't be bashful. If you are confident that
God has called you to be doing what you do and that your motives are
altruistic and your music is excellent then let people know you're
ready to serve. Developing personal relationship is so important in
connecting with churches.

5. Have you ever wanted to resign from your career as an independent
artist and pursue another career?

I almost did after having my daughter Julia in 2003, but the call to
perform, write and share my music with others was too great. I've
just had to learn to work it into the new schedule of having a young
child. My husband has also been very supportive and understanding
about how crazy the schedule can get.

6. What is the most encouraging thing you've experienced as an
independent artist?

I love when people ask for autographed copies of my CD after a
concert. There's no egotistical motive there…the idea of signing CDs
actually makes me uncomfortable. But I love it because it means I
have connected with people on a personal level and they want to take
a personalized piece of the experience home. I hope when they see my
autograph, they will remember me and my words of love and
encouragement to them.

7. What is the most discouraging thing you've experienced as an
independent artist?

When I call churches for booking and they say "We don't do that kind
of thing at our church". They dismiss the idea of treating their
congregation to something that may really bless them without even
considering the idea. The small churches I visit are my favorite
gigs because the people there aren't usually exposed to great music
and they are so appreciative and excited!

8. Do you sometimes doubt if you have what it takes to make it in the
music business? If so, how do you deal with it?

Yes. But I am happy with the level I'm at now, so if it goes no
further than this I will still be happy. If it does expand then
that's all gravy!

9. Are your CDs available for sale at Christian stores? If so, where?

No. I sell all my CDs at concerts and online. A few coffee shops
I've performed at have them available like Heavenly Perks in Garden
Grove and The Node in Norwalk.

10. How do you deal with the ups and downs of show business?

Lots of prayer! Sometimes I do get frustrated. I spend some time
with my family, get a good night's sleep and usually I wake up on the
brighter side of life.

11. What are your long-term goals for your music career/ministry?

I would like to do more speaking. I'd also like to do a few mini
tours in the Midwest and East Coast in the next year. I'm working on
ideas for a more traditional or classical CD and also a Christmas
CD. And of course I'm already writing for my next Contemporary CD.
Not sure how I'll accomplish or pay for all of that…but it's good to
have dreams and goals.

12. Do you consider yourself as being more of a singer or a
songwriter?

I really consider myself as both equally. I have had some great
honors as a singer like singing the National Anthem at Dodger Stadium
and I do some recording for other songwriters that allows me to use
my classical training. But I love songwriting and I don't think I'd
be as excited about my ministry if I wasn't singing songs that I've
written and feel totally connected to.

13. What is the most important thing you learned while growing up
with a disability and how has this affected your relationship with
God.

In case people reading this don't know, I have had glaucoma from
birth and grew up legally blind. My family played a major role in
helping me deal with this obstacle. They never categorized me
as "disabled" or "different". I think they just though of it as a
challenge to overcome. I was given all the visual aids and special
training they could find to help me live alongside fully sighted
people. I went to public school, participated in sports and was
luckily already academically motivated. I also managed to never take
myself too seriously which allowed others to be more at ease with my
visual difficulty. I always felt that I should use the talents God
gave me and not burry them in the sand just because it is more
difficult to do things. God has richly rewarded me for having that
attitude and has also covered me with His love and protection.

14. Which did you enjoy most, being a classical soloist, a worship
leader or singing in an alternative rock band? Why?

I do really enjoy being a classical soloist. The music is so
beautiful and I love singing with a live orchestra. But it is very
high stress. Your voice has to be in tip top shape to sing that
music. What I like best is to throw one of those classical numbers
into my program like Ave Maria. I get such a great response-usually
a standing ovation which is just so cool!

15. How did you meet your husband?

We met in College Choir at Westmont College. We actually got
together on our first choir tour and got engaged on our last choir
tour. It's a sickeningly sweet story but it's true.

16. How has your life changed after the birth of your daughter?

Life is busier and more complicated, but very fulfilling. I have to
learn to divide my time between what my daughter needs and what I
need which means making time for my music career. Let's just say I
don't often go to bed before midnight anymore.

17. What do you enjoy most about fellowshipping with other Mothers of
Pre-Schoolers?

I get some great ideas from them about how to negotiate this new busy
schedule. I get all kinds of great tips and tricks, reading
recommendations on tough subjects like discipline. And mostly I just
enjoy commiserating and rejoicing with others in the same stage of
life.

18. Which of your CDs do you like the best, Healing Waters or
Overwhelmed?

"Healing Waters" is my newest and was recorded in a professional
studio with a producer. I like it best because it is professional
and it contains some of my favorite songs. There are a few songs on
Overwhelmed that are very close to my heart like "Running"
and "Overwhelmed". Someday I think I will re-record those for a
future album.

19. Why did you join Christian D.I.V.A.s?

I met Jilleen at my MOPS group. She encouraged me to check out the
group. I was so impressed with the caliber of the talent and the
professional attitude of the girls. That's why I joined, but little
did I know how much I would be blessed by the support and fellowship
of all the girls. We help each other, have regular prayer sessions
for each other's ministries and give each other advice which is so
valuable.

20. How did you come to know Christ as your Savior?

I grew up in the church. I accepted Christ when a famous evangelist
named Luis Pallow came to our church and gave a message that tugged
at my heart to pray the prayer of acceptance. I was about 7. I've
had my ups and downs in my relationship with Christ (especially in my
early teen years through my parents multiple divorces from each
other) but I've always had that foundation and knew He was there to
talk to and to guide me if I would just ask.

Sounding off
Music award a Noble cause
By Ambrosia Sarabia, Staff Writer


SAN DIMAS - Bree Noble is the best at what she does.

At least that's what Inland Empire Music Award judges decided when they named her Best Female performer.

"I was pretty surprised actually," said Noble, 34.

The singer/songwriter was lauded on Jan. 26 during the 2007 Inland Empire Music Awards, held at the Key Club in Cabazon.

The event promotes and recognizes emerging artists in the Inland Empire. More than 25 awards were distributed to winners in categories ranging from best pop, hard rock, folk, Latin, live band and jazz.

Judging was based on recorded music submissions, artist biographies, and live performance experience.

The two-year San Dimas resident entered the contest on a whim and was pleased with the result. The legally blind Christian contemporary songwriter bases her music on life experiences.

"I learned to deal with it at an early age and learned to go around it using visual aids like large-print reading materials or a magnifying glass," she said.

The Modesto native found her love for music in high school and has been moving forward ever since.

She has produced three albums, the most recent one, "Healing Waters," is a collection of uplifting melodies.

Looking toward the future the wife and mother aims to make another record in two years and continue with her craft.

"I hope to be able to self-sustain my career in music," she said. "I have been blessed to get a lot of good gigs due to this award. I hope to continue to go out and get my name out there and sell CDs."

For information on the artist visit www.breenoble.com

ambrosia.sarabia@sgvn.com

(626) 962-8811, Ext. 2303

Legally Blind Since Birth, Mom’s Vision of a Career in Music Comes to Light
by Laura Smith Bonner

Bree Noble is a business woman, musician and singer-songwriter. She is a woman of strong faith, a mother, a daughter and a wife. She is also legally blind and has been since birth. But unlike others who may have deemed this an insurmountable obstacle on their path, Noble has managed to overcome this physical disability, and continues to embrace her journey with a solid, sweet background melody of grace.
Bree Noble was born with congenital glaucoma. This means that she did not have the ducts necessary to allow fluid to pass in and out of the eye, which caused pressure to rise, and Noble to lose a great deal of her sight while still in the womb. By the time she was two, she had undergone numerous surgeries; however, she still remained legally blind. By utilizing reading aids, Noble learned to grow up with glaucoma. She attended local public schools because her parents believed it was best for her to be integrated with other children and she found that she enjoyed it as well. She had a resource teacher that helped her with the simple basics such as learning how to cross the street and catch a bus and she became involved in sports and whatever else she could manage like her peers.
When she was a senior in high school, it became necessary for Noble to have additional surgery on her right eye because the pressure wasn’t being controlled. During the surgery, something went horribly wrong, causing hemorrhaging and permanent damage to the retina. Consequently, Noble completely lost all sight in her right eye. Although she never regained sight in that eye, Bree eventually recovered from the surgery, returned to school and was able to graduate with the rest of her class.


Up to this point and throughout her high school years, music was a big part of Noble’s life, so when it came time for picking a college she chose Westmont, a liberal arts college located in Santa Barbara, CA, where she could also study music. Being a small school, Westmont afforded Noble the opportunity to obtain individualized attention from her professors, who even allowed her to take exams in her room with the reading machine she had acquired in high school. The accommodating nature of both the professors and the school proved to be instrumental support in a journey that most would find daunting.
While at school, Bree played the keyboard and sang with a performing ensemble that traveled all over the California area. Although she yearned to be a musician or vocalist, Noble knew she had to be practical. Her solution was to work toward a business degree that would allow her to find a job after graduation, as well as obtain a degree in the discipline of her heart’s choosing, music. After graduating, Noble secured a job in the accounting field and worked on her music on the side. She eventually managed to land a position seemingly tailor-made for her and from 1999 to 2004, became the Director of Finance at an Opera company. She states, “Now I could use all of my music knowledge and get front row seats to every opera!” This has worked for her so well that even when she had her daughter in 2003 and found that trying to split a full-time work load between home and the office was just too much, she was then able to execute a graceful exit from her job and facilitated an arrangement whereby she could continue as a consultant part-time from home. This one year supposition has blossomed into a three year reality.
Throughout all of this time, Nobel had not forgotten her first calling of music and was writing and recording whenever she could find the time in her home studio. Once she had her daughter, she found she had to cut back; however, as soon as her child began to get older, she looked into going back out and performing again. At present, she performs quite a bit and it has developed into the part-time career that she’s always desired.
Noble states that the main challenge she found on her journey was the fact that she has never been able to drive, especially now that she is a parent. To counteract this difficulty, she and her husband found a house that was centrally located and from which she could walk within 20 to 30 minutes to most places that she would need. As is customary for Noble, she alters this negative into a positive. She states, “I use this as a bonding time with my three year-old daughter Julia. We walk and we talk about what we see, (we) have conversations together. Julia is very verbal and I attribute that too all of the conversations we’ve had while we walked.”
The turning point for Nobel came when she recognized that she could not do it all and reorganized her life. She relates, “I scaled back my job because I didn’t want to not work. I like working and I like feeling useful, but I was (extremely) stressed out and doing way too much, and doing everything half as well that I could.” So they sold their house and moved closer to her husband’s job, while she arranged to work part-time. This adjustment eventually led to an added benefit that she did not immediately visualize. It freed her up to be able to get back to working on her music, where the light of her passion could finally be realized.

When Bree Yaeger Noble ’94
sings “You Are My Vision,” she
has more than spiritual insight in
mind.A lifetime of glaucoma has
left her legally blind,and she shares
her struggles with sight — and
with faith — through her music.
A songwriter and singer, she has
released three CDs and embarked
on a solo music ministry performing
at church concerts, worship
services and women’s retreats
throughout California.
Her suffering with a different
ailment — Crohn’s disease — led her to be more outspoken about
her experiences.“I felt God was calling me to start speaking to groups
about my visual difficulty,” she says.“When I recovered from Crohn’s,
I decided to reach out in ministry. My message is not to limit yourself
despite the limitations you may have. God doesn’t limit us, he thinks
we have unlimited potential.”
When Bree shares her story, she gives a lot of credit to her parents,
who never treated her differently than her siblings.“They didn’t send
me to a special school, I went to public school like everyone else,” she
says.“They always made sure I had what I needed to be on the same
level as others.” Bree has some sight, which allows her to read with a
special magnifying machine — and to see the face of her young daughter,
Julia. In fact, Bree and her husband, Chris Noble ’94, have built a life
together unhindered by the limitations of her vision.The couple met
as fellow members of the Westmont College Choir and got married
in 1994. Chris completed a doctorate in English literature at UC Irvine
and has taught at Azusa Pacific University for six years.
Bree earned degrees in both music and economics and business at
Westmont, and her knowledge of accounting helps her manage her
music career. After graduating, she worked as an accountant for three
years before becoming the director of finance of Opera Pacific for five
years. She scaled back her hours to care for her daughter after her birth
in 2002, and she plans her performing schedule to spend as much
time as possible with Julia.
Not only does she write most of the music she performs, but Bree
has also worked on a Broadway-style musical,“Little Italian Girl,” cowriting
many of the songs. Her CD “Can You See the Stars?” features
the 10 best tunes. Her collaborators hope to stage the work in Australia.
To hear some of these songs and works from her other CDs,“Healing
Waters” and “Overwhelmed,” go to www.breenoble.com.

More than 55,000 fans had the chance
to hear Bree Noble’s patriotic side as she
sang the National Anthem on July 28 at
Dodger Stadium. The performance was
the result of a contest by the Cal-Pac
Conference for United Methodist Dodger
Night.
Noble was chosen from dozens of
entries from throughout Southern California
from Santa Barbara to San Diego.
Joyce Zirkle, who coordinated the
contest and recommended the finalists to
Dodger officials, remembered Noble’s
audition CD. “She was very professional,
very clear,” she said.
Noble attends Glendora United
Methodist Church and was told of the
opportunity by her pastor, the Rev. Doug
Hodson. After listening to her audition
CD, Pastor Hodson, himself a huge
Dodger fan, was hopeful that Noble
would be able to represent the United
Methodist Church on the field that night.
Noble’s account of the experience is
very positive. “I had a blast! The
Dodgers’ representatives were great
and the organist was flawless. It was an
unforgettable experience rehearsing in
the press box and out on the field during
batting practice. I prayed for peace two
seconds before I opened my mouth and
God answered prayer. He replaced all
my nerves with joy. And my family and I
had a great time at the game too. The
Dodgers slaughtered the Nationals
which began a winning streak. Thank you
to those who came out and supported me!
We had 1,000 Methodists there.”
For the last 20 years, Noble has been
immersed in music. She has performed in
Glendora’s Bree Noble Sings at Methodist
Dodger Night
choirs and as a classical soloist, sang lead
in a female barbershop quartet and was
the lead singer for several Christian
bands. Today she classifies herself as a
Contemporary Christian artist: singer,
songwriter and keyboard player. She is
co-leader of the worship team at her
church in Glendora and sings in the choir.
“I just love music in general,” she said. “I
love writing, performing and sharing
music with people, especially music with
a message.”
The Modesto native has produced two
CDs to date: Overwhelmed, a Christian
Contemporary album, and Can You See
the Stars, which features inspirational
music and love songs. Her new CD
Healing Waters is nearly complete and
will be available in late September.
Noble performs for churches, coffeehouses
and festivals throughout California.
Her music ministry has grown to
include appearances at women’s and
moms’ groups where she performs the
music she has written and speaks about
her testimony and life experiences behind
the lyrics.
For more information on Bree
Noble’s music ministry and a video of her
National Anthem performance, visit
www.breenoble.com and for or booking
e-mail breenoble@breenoblemusic.com.

SAN DIMAS - More than 55,000 fans had the chance to hear Bree Noble's patriotic side as she sang the national anthem July 28 at Chavez Ravine.
The performance was the result of a contest by the regional conference of United Methodist Church for "United Methodist Night."
Entries came from the Santa Barbara, Riverside, Los Angeles and San Diego areas.
Joyce Zirkle, who coordinated the contest and recommended the finalists to Dodgers officials, remembered Noble's audition CD.
"She was very professional, very clear," she said.
Noble, 34, of San Dimas, said she was hopeful that she would win the contest.
"It's the first time that I actually auditioned," she said. "You don't get to perform for very long - I think you have to keep it to a minute and a half - but you're performing to a lot of people."
For the last 20 years, Noble has been immersed in music, having performed in choirs, a barbershop group and in bands.
Today she classifies herself as a contemporary Christian artist: singer, songwriter and keyboard player.
"I just love music in general," she said. "I love writing and I love performing. I love sharing music with people."
Noble performs at area churches and is a member of Glendora United Methodist Church where she is a member of the worship band, sings in the choir and performs
special music.
Her next local performance will be at Rico Coffee in La Verne on Aug. 12 at 7:30 p.m. during an evening of music by solo artists.
The Modesto native has produced two CDs to date: "Overwhelmed," a Christian music compilation, "Can You See The Stars" which features inspirational music and spirituals. Her new CD, "Healing Waters" will be available Sept. 30.
Dodger home games see an average attendance of more than 45,000, but was sold out July 28 in part because of Steve Garvey bobblehead night. For Noble, last week's solo was before her largest audience ever.
While in college she performed at the ballpark with a band, but it wasn't the same.
"It's a little different," Noble said. "It was 12 people. It's a little different doing it by yourself."
Or perhaps it's just playing in a whole new league.
For more information visit www.breenoble.com

Attn: Praiseworthy Productions - Artist & Songwriting Members...
Re: Article by Bree Noble about her recent success story and how she got some Air Time!! :-)
Purpose: To learn and be inspired by the opportunities that constantly "lurk" around us!

Hello Praiseworthy Members & Friends!
The other day I got to hear Bree Noble's live radio show that was recorded at KWVE studios
c/o DJ Jymi Stewart, a popular radio show host here in the Southern California area. The format
was acoustic worship, about 10 songs with intro by the DJ and interviews with Bree "peppered"
between all the songs. Please read her story below which tells you how the Lord opened this
great door for her to get on the live radio broadcast show! It's probably something you can
do with willing Christian radio shows in your own area!

There are links below to Bree's web site where you can listen to the actual recorded show.
If you have any questions or need any "advice", please drop Bree a line from her contact
page on her web site:
http://www.breenoble.com/contact.html

If you have a similar success story you would like to share with all Praiseworthy Productions members
sometime, please forward your story to me via email and I'll be glad to share it with everyone! :-)

Thanks & Lord bless you all,
Michael Borges
P.S. Always be on the "look out" for ways the Lord may be leading you to new doors
he wants to open for you! "Seek & you will find, knock and the door will be opened,
ask and you shall receive!"

-----------------------
Date: 6/5/06
Bree Wrote:
I really can't remember how I found out about the opportunity, but it must have been a Christian Forum or newsletter somewhere on the net.
I emailed the DJ and asked for more details. He was kind enough to respond and had listened to my music on my website and decided my music was perfect for his show. He asked me to call him and discuss the details and schedule a date to come in. To my surprise he suggested coming in within a week. I had just formed my band within the last 2 months and was nervous about getting ready so quickly, especially because he said our performance must be truly acoustic-no electricity. So I abandoned my keyboard and relied on my guitar player (Mark Felten) and percussionist (Jeff Deal) to accompany me. We only had one practice in the new acoustic format. Not knowing what to expect we ventured to Orange County the next Monday to the KWVE studios. We were crammed into a broadcast booth, but the sound was awesome-great microphones and crisp sound coming through all of our headphones. The DJ Jymi Stewart asked me to open up in prayer which really helped me to focus. I prayed that the audience would focus their minds on the lyrics and messages God is speaking through the music, but I meant the prayer for myself too. It was a bit daunting performing to a "pretend" audience, but God helped me focus on the lyrics and helped me express them to the unseen radio audience as if I was in front of them. He helped me sing and act as if in front of an audience, facial expressions, hand gestures and everything. I think God knew I'd be given the opportunity to share this show with more than just the immediate radio audience, so He wanted me to give it my all. He gave me the strength to share things I don't think I've ever shared in such depth in concert, and opened the door to make it available to a wider audience on my website. If you are interested in listening to the show, it is available in 2 parts on my website: http://www.breenoblemusic.com
Listen to Part 1: http://www.breenoble.com/audio/BREE_NOBLE-Live_on_The_Cafe-5.m3u
Listen to Part 2: http://www.breenoble.com/audio/BREE_NOBLE-Live_on_The_Cafe-2.m3u
If you are in the Southern California area and have an hour's worth of material you'd like to deliver to a wider audience, I encourage you to contact The Worship Cafe at: http://www.theworshipcafe.com
Blessings,
Bree