A composer and soprano in Bloomington, Ind.
Abby Henkel Roman is a versatile musician with a keen ear and a deep knowledge of choral music. She is available for hire as a soloist and choral singer in central Indiana and occasional travel, and for commissions for new choral compositions. You can also purchase sheet music through this site.
New recording of “Perigee”
On Sunday, February 2, 2025, Voces Novae performed “Perigee,” my piece for a cappella choir and soloist/reader, setting text by my friend and fellow singer Mary Craig. “Perigee” is about her son, Simon Craig Vodosek, who died of cancer in 2004 at the age of 7. The concert was a very moving experience for all involved; a packed house of 300 people at the UU Church of Bloomington sat in silence at the end of the 9-minute piece, honoring Mary’s story and Simon’s life with respect and admiration. I am pleased to share this recording, which includes videos of Simon. Sue Swaney did an amazing job as ever in rehearsing and conducting this piece, and it was a life-changing experience to sing it alongside my friends in Voces Novae.
New recording of “Thank You” by Voces Novae
Voces Novae (dir. Susan Swaney) presented the live premiere of my 2022 composition, “Thank You,” at our May 5, 2024 concert about the microbiome. Poet Ross Gay gave a reading at the concert.
“Perigee” selected in Orlando competition
I’m honored to share that “Perigee” was selected by the Orlando Contemporary Chamber Orchestra and VoxO to be performed at their September 9, 2023 concert entitled “Through the Eyes of a Child.” Poet Mary Craig and I attended with our families.
My music
Through my composing, I explore the versatility of a cappella singing to create new works that are challenging, singable, and rewarding for performers and audience alike. Working with poets, choirs, and conductors enriches my experience of bringing new music to life.
As a singer, I commit to artistry and integrity with every performance. I bring three decades of training in sight-reading, expressiveness, intonation, music theory, choral blending, and solo singing. Specialties include 20th and 21st century, sacred Renaissance, and Baroque music. Range: A3 to C6.
Listen
Listen to my 2019 recording of Handel’s I Know That My Redeemer Liveth, or click here to hear more recordings of singing and compositions.