“In Flanders Fields” – Original classical contemporary ballad to poem by John McCrae

This year will mark the centenary of The Battle of The Somme, World War I.

“In Flanders Fields” is a poem by Canadian, John McCrae, written on the battlefields of World War I. He penned the poem after noticing how quickly Poppies grew around the graves of soldiers killed at Ypres, Passchendaele, Pozieres, The Somme – to name but a few – in the area collectively known as the Flanders Fields. My Grandfather, Driver Wilfred Coleman, 25th Battalion AIF, spent most of the war, (after Gallipoli) driving an eight horse team  to the front lines, delivering ammunition and supplies, and carrying back the wounded and dead. Sadly, John McCrae did not survive the war, but the symbol of the poppy and his beautiful rondeau remind us always of the sacrifices made on those fields for our freedom.

100 years after the Battle of Verdun, Feb 21, 1916, in honour of their memory,  I am very proud to present my recording of this original new song,   “In Flanders Fields”,  composed to the lyrics of the poem, with music and arrangement by Daniel Philippe.   It can be purchased from this website by going to the Recordings page.  On April 23, an ABC article appeared across Australia, and was shared globally by other musicians on social media.  http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-04-22/singers-anzac-tribute-to-digger-grandfather/7347106

If you would like to purchase a copy of the song, it can be found here http://helencolemansinging.com.au/product/in-flanders-fields-helen-coleman-mp3/

Many are aware of my journey to regain my voice after surgery for thyroid cancer.    I am very grateful to Opera Queensland for offering me the opportunity to take part in Project Puccini, The French Festival at Southbank, and Colour Me Brisbane,  in 2014.   It was a wonderful experience throughout, and I am positive that it was instrumental in the healing process.   Please take a moment to read the story by Opera Q.   I am thrilled to be able to say that I will be attending the Opening night performance of The Barber of Seville!   I hope to see you there!

http://operaq.com.au/news/helens-inspirational-journey-continues/

In Flanders Fields” – Vocals, Helen Coleman.  Composer and Arranger – Daniel Philippe.  Piano – Daniel Philippe.  Flugelhorn – Geoff Govier. Strings: The Adina Quartet.  Drums – Nathan Goldman.  Audio Engineer: David Quinn.  Mastering: Dave Neil.  Producers: Helen Coleman and Daniel Philippe.  Executive Producer: Charles Di Lisio.   Recorded at Ghostgum Studios, Cannon Hill, Brisbane, Queensland, on March 21, 2016.   “Lest we Forget”.   ©   This work is copyright, and all rights are reserved.