Amanda Somerville

Amanda Somerville — American singer, songwriter and vocal coach based in Germany — is one of the most present figures in European symphonic metal, even though much of her work happens off stage. Her least visible function is also the most influential: Somerville works as a vocal coach for bands in the genre, guiding singers who must sustain demanding techniques across entire tours. That places her inside the production process of dozens of records — Epica, Kamelot, Avantasia and After Forever are among the names she has worked with. As a performer she recorded with Avantasia and Aina, took part in metal opera projects and joined Exit Eden, the group in which singers of the genre re-record pop songs in heavy arrangements. She also maintains work of her own, including Trillium, the project in which she appears as principal author. Her voice combines wide range with precise pitch and dynamic control — exactly the qualities she teaches. It is rare to find someone who occupies at once the position of sought-after performer and of teacher to those who replace her.