http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html DIANE PANCEL: BLOG Jannis' PHPRss class - http://www.jannis.to/ Sat, 19 May 2012 01:06:58 -0700 http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#23
It's been a while since I last blogged... Lots going on here in beautiful L.A... Each and every day I meet some amazing people that come from all walks of life. It may sound cliche but it's a beautiful thing. I may not be where I want to be just yet but I'm enjoying the journey hence why my subject title is called 'Life is what you make it'.

I recently lost my cousin Gilbert to his battle with lung cancer and with his death, it's really made me think about the decisions we make in our lives and how we live them. He was 40 and left behind his children, family and friends. I know he wasn't ready to go because I remember the day he was diagnosed he looked at me and said, "I'm not letting this son-of-a- bitch get me". I love that about him. His fight and will to survive but sadly his poor body just couldn't take it anymore. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of him. So with his passing it's made me realize that life is so short and we don't know what the good lord has in store for us.

So here I am in L.A. pursuing my dreams and goals and I am enjoying every moment...

If there is one thing I can say to anyone out there who has a dream and a vision for something bigger in your life I say, GO FOR IT! You only live once my friends and at the end of the day you need to be able to look at yourself in the mirror and say, "I'm happy and no regrets". I don't care if it's your career, your relationships, anything... You need to make sure that you're happy otherwise you'll live a life of regret and being miserable. Let's face... who the hell wants that? :)

So there... I've said my peace... Lots of great things coming up. I'm singing with my dear friend (And fellow Canadian) John Randall at this great little club called M Bar in West Hollywood. He's so amazing! Killer singer and piano player to boot! I've also got a date booked there for my show on June 21st. What better way to ring in the summer than to come and hear me? Haha... All good things...

Take care everyone and remember, stay true...

Blessings...]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#23 Mon, 23 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0700 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#22
To sum it up, I love it here. Plain and simple. Everyone here is super friendly. It's a very different energy here but it's something that I'm drawn to. I guess it's where I'm ment to be. I live in a very eclectic part of L.A. that in some ways reminds me of home. What I mean by home is my family and friends. Different cultures and backgrounds... it's wonderful.

The other day I went for a great hike where I heard two women talking about how to prevent celulite... I thought to myself, "Welcome to L.A. Di!"

As for music here in town, again it's eclectic. You can find it all here. I've been to a couple of jams and meeting lots of musicians. I'm going this weekend to check out my friends Sony & Jerry Holland at a great little Jazz club not far from where I'm at.

I've had the opportunity to hear two of my favorite genres of music: Bigband and Gospel and lots of it too. As an artist I feel like I'm finally tapping into what I've always loved yet back home wasn't an audience for if that makes any sense.

Aside from all of that, life is great. I had the opportunity to study with the lovely Kathleen Riggs. I always told my students back home that you should never stop learning so I figure I better practice what I preach, haha!

Exciting times my friends... I just want to send out a very big thank you to everyone that attended my gig at Hermann's Jazz club. Your love and support means the world to me especially when I'm away from home. I also want to thank 3 very special men... James Young, Thomas Kinzel, and Jon Miller.... My brothers in music... You three take the cake. There are many musicians that I have worked with but when the four of us work together, musical magic happens and we have way too much fun!

So there you have it everyone... I promise to keep you posted. Stay tune... Lots more coming!

Hugs to everyone and stay true xo]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#22 Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0800 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#21
So much happening these past few months... Where do I begin? Well for starters, I have made the decision to move to LA in the New year which is very exciting... More to share soon enough.

In the meantime, I have been working with the Canadian Pacific Ballet and playing the part of the narrator in their production of "The Nutcracker". What an experience it has been. The girl who always wanted to be a ballerina is finally in a ballet. I'm not dancing but that's alright. As a kid I studied ballet but let's face it, I was a very curvy young girl so I didn't quiet fit the description of what a ballerina looked like. Either way, I am delighted. The dancers in this show are superb and a delight to work with.

As I said, there is lots in the works for the New year and I promise to share when I can.

Stay true kids... Blessings]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#21 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0800 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#20
So this is day 2 for me here in beautiful SUNNY L.A. Sorry my lovelies back home but it is beautiful here. I went out tonight and I think I was the only one not wearing a sweater. Apparently 70 degrees in the evening is freezing... That's ok, I guess the locals knew that I was a tourist.

So I was down here for an audition which I think went very well. Like anything, now it's the waiting game. At the end of the day, I know I gave my best and if I'm not chosen, then I just wasn't what they were looking for. That's the way this biz goes... you keep moving forward. I just feel so lucky to have had this opportunity. You don't get stuff like this back home...

Of course after my audition, I had the whole day to play tourist which I did... Since I've been away from the gym for 3 days, I've been feeling the need to workout so I walked allot today. I know I walked almost 2 miles to get to Grauman's Chinese Theatre! ( I know Marie and Christian will be very proud of me) I took photos of Marilyn's hand prints (Yes, I stuck my hand in her's and whatcha know... same as moi!) and walked forever down the walk of fame taking pictures of every single star from Jon Cryer to Stan Kenton to Doris Day to Rosland Russell... Yes I love Hollywood... Well the history. Just so you know to my friends that have never been here, Hollywood is not what it's cracked up to be. There are a few places that are beautiful but the rest of it kinda looks like East Hastings in Vancouver.... Not the Pigeon Park area, more like towards the PNE kinda look.

I went for Breakfast at Denny's (I know... so original) and met the most wonderful lady named Vi. She's 74 and still going strong. We talked about family and LA and her life. When I left she said that I was the sweetest thing...lol... She was so sweet but I told her it's because I'm Canadian! We're all so sweet! ;)

Then I took a tour of the Celebrity homes... I saw everything from Michael Jackson's home where he passed to the Playboy Mansion. Oh and of course, George Clooney's and Carol Burnett! Some of the homes are in full view but most of them are behind ginormous gates. I also walked into Capital Records... That was a riot because they have security at the door and unless you have a recording session, no dice in getting in. The security guard asked me if I had a session booked. I said no except I wanted to be able to say that I walked through those doors. Someday I'll record there... So many of my inspirations have recorded there. I get very emotional about it but it's true.


Then this evening I had the chance to check out The Baked Potato which is a small but very well known Jazz club in L.A.. That place took me back to Tootsie's Orchid Lounge that I sang at in Nashville a few years back. There are posters on the walls that are so thick that I swear if they weren't there you'd fall right through the walls! The musicianship here is unbelievable and I know that I've just seen and heard just the tip of the iceberg.

So now I'm back at my flat and reflecting on the day... As Peggy Lee said, It's a good day from morning to night...

So what's in the cards for me tomorrow? Well how about getting some sleep and then I'll think about that when I wake up. ;)

Thanks to my family and friends back home who have really supported me throughout this adventure... I love you! Who knows where this journey will take me but I'm enjoying the ride... Nite nite!]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#20 Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#19
Chris Millington for hiring me this summer to be one of the lead vocalists with his band "Dancin""... We played almost every Thursday night at Butchart Gardens. To Pat Rundell who is the owner of Urban Arts Production for understanding. I unfortunately had to pull out of the cast of [Title Of Show} which was a very hard decision but it was something I had to do.

So now that summer is coming to an end..(BOO!) I am very excited about the fall. I love new seasons. It a great way to clean the slate and start fresh hence why I titled this new beginnings.

Speaking of new beginnings, I have started a mission to lose some weight.... My goal is 40 pounds which I am on my way having just lost 12 pounds in the last month. I have also be extremely blessed with having started a partnership with the Steve Nash Fitness World here in Victoria. If you are looking for a new start, go see my dear friend Marie Bellevance. You won't regret it. I've had a few people ask me why I've decided to share what I'm going through... Well, it's simple. I'm human... Just because I am someone in the public eye doesn't mean that I don't go through the same struggles like everyone else. I'll admit, I love snacks especially chips! Who doesn't??? Lol.... There are days that I don't want to go to the gym but I do because once I'm there, I get into a zone and then it's all about having fun while I'm going through it. The next thing you know, you become addicted to it. I've made a deal with myself (and my trainer) that I'm working out 4 to 5 days a week.

Speaking of which, I better get going to the gym... I hope you are all having a wonderful day and enjoying the sunshine and know that if you are struggling with weight loss or just anything, know that you're not alone. :)]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#19 Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0700 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#18
I have been blessed to be apart of the Chris Millington band "Dancin'" which plays on most Thursday nights at Butchart Gardens. I've worked with these fine musicians before but to work with them on a regular basis is awesome. They have welcomed me and made me feel so at home if that's the best way to describe it.

So now that is on the go, I have begun rehearsals for another play... that's right folks, another play! Lol... Seriously, doing HAIR was such a thrill for me being back on stage and learning lines and music and choreography but this show, is so much more! The show I'm in is called [title of show] and I am playing the part of Susan. This cast is so awesome! You think I could come up with some other word but sorry kids, it's late and I just had a 3 hour rehearsal so I'm a little brain dead... Maybe it's just on overload... Who knows....

Either way, I can't wait... I won't lie when I say that some days I am feeling a little freaked out but as the song I sing in the show, "Die Vampire Die", I know I must face those vampires and get rid of them... This just goes to prove that I'm human folks. Even professionals get freaked out. :) Personally, I love hearing that my peers and inspirations in this crazy industry get overwhelmed too... That keeps them real and real is good every now and then.

So this show is going to debut on August 26th at the Victoria International Fringe Festival! I am so bloody excited! I've never been apart of fringe so this is all new to me. I really hope you all come out and catch a show or even two!

More than anything, I want to send a special thank you too my dear friend Patrick Rundell for this amazing opportunity and believing on me. Check out his website at www.urbanartsproductions.com

Oh! I also forgot to mention that I'm also in the process of recording some new tunes too... Lots of exciting stuff to happen this fall but in the meantime, one must stay on track with the present.

Stay tuned for more stuff...

Blessings... xoxo]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#18 Tue, 02 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0700 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#17
I have been on the go something fierce and it's been awesome. I was sick about 4 weeks ago with bronchitis but I am happy to report that all is well. One thing I hate is being sick while I'm in the middle of rehearsals. The way I see it, better that I got it early instead of right before the run of our show.

This show has really been a labour of love... Allot of you don't know this but theatre was what started it all for me. It's one thing to perform with a band or to open for a big name (I once opened for Lonestar and Leanne Rhymes) but it's another thing to be apart of a team where you are singing and acting and dancing. It's a completely different experience.

I know that I have blogged about my cast and crew before but I mean it when I say that they are amazing! They are so talented and wonderful. I've been apart of many shows and I can say that this cast and crew is like no other cast I've worked with. Not a rehearsal goes by where we don't give each other big hugs and ask one another how we are doing. I don't even have some of my close friends ask me that! They have become apart of my extended family and I am going to miss the weekends where I don't have rehearsal to go to and see them. That's the one thing that has always saddened me after a run of a show. One positive thing that I can take away from all of this is that I have a whole new group of friends! :)

So now it's another rehearsal, a tech run, and then it's showtime! If you have your tickets, you are going to love this show! It's going to bring the city of Victoria to it's feet! If you don't, get down to the McPherson Theatre and get your tickets.

After this run I'll be opening for the ever so talented Matt Dusk! He is kicking off his Canadian tour here in Victoria and I can't wait! Life is good my friends...

Well, I'm off to bed. Lord knows I need some sleep... You all take care and stay true...xo]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#17 Sun, 03 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0700 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#16
I'm getting into character for my part in the musical HAIR. Kaleidoscope Theatre here in Victoria is putting on this fabulous (or should I be saying Groovy...) production.
I am playing the part of Sheila which I am so excited to play. The show is being directed by Rodrick Glanville and our musical director is Yanik Giroux and our choreographer is Phoebe Rumsey! I am surrounded by greatness let me tell you! I worked with all of these amazingly talented people in previous shows and I thank my lucky stars that they have given me this opportunity.

It's been a while since I've done theatre and I must admit I've missed it. I've done a fair bit of musical revues but getting back into what started it all for me is making me feel nostalgic. I believe that I am coming full circle and that's a wonderful thing. You can do that a million times over in your career/life and every time it feels all so new.

We started our rehearsals last Sunday and let me tell you all... it was awesome! We have one helluva cast!

Anyway, that is going amazing...

Then I am happy to announce that I will be opening for Matt Dusk Saturday April 16th at the Alix Gooldin Hall here in Victoria! He is kicking off his Canadian tour here which is so very exciting. I remember when I worked at Mainly Music, a little music store in my home town, and his first album came out. I would play our sample copy all the time. I thought to myself, "this guy is pretty good". He is so talented and has such a nostalgic voice... That seems to be my word de jour...lol

I know I may sound like a broken record but I truly count my blessings for all that comes into my life. Perhaps that'll be my new anthem... "Count Your Blessings" by Irving Berlin.. Take a listen to it sometime...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qmMaPTuTEE


Take care kittens and see you all soon... Blessings]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#16 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0800 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#15
I hope each and everyone of you had a wonderful Christmas and New years. I know I did! What a whirlwind...

I spent my Christmas with my family and wonderful friends. It was quiet and that's what I needed because this New Year is starting off with a BANG! Lol...

I have been asked to sing the national anthem at the BMO Figure Skating Canadian Nationals! I also have to sing in french too! I've never had to sing our beautiful anthem in french but that's alright... I love a challange and all of my amazing friends who have offered to help are the best! I have to admit, I really enjoy singing our anthem in 2 lanuguages. It's probably because that I grew up in a family that spoke so many languages. Since I speak 4 other languages, it's going to be just fine! :)

Make sure that you all tune in to CBC to watch the opening ceremonies... Check your local listings.

I'm so excited to be a judge for this year's Victoria Idol... man do we have some serious talent in this city! I am so excited to see where these young talents go with their careers.

What are some of your resolutions? Personally, I don't like to make them because half the time, we never follow through. I believe that we should make them throughout the year... Small victories because in the end, we beat ourselves up for not finishing them. I have to admit, I did make one... To try and eat less dairy and wheat. Two of my favorite things to eat lots of... It's been a couple of weeks and it's not too bad. I still have it just not all the time. We shall see how this goes... :)

Well friends, I am back to the grind but you all take care and I look forward to seeing you all at my gigs.

Blessings...]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#15 Sun, 09 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0800 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#14
Well, so much has happened in the last 3 weeks and I am loving every moment..lol

On December 2nd, I was fortunate enough to be chosen to be flown in to San Diego to compete in the AMWAY IBO Talent Show. I was brought in as the "wildcard" and beating out over 1000 entires. What an experience... I want to send a very big THANK YOU to all of the people that work with Amway and made my stay such a wonderful one. People tend to speak ill of Amway but let me tell you all first hand, they are awesome. I could go on and on about them that's how great they are.

Anyway, from there it was back home for all of 6 hours and then on another plane to Hawaii to spend 2 glorious weeks with my family. We had so much fun... I'll share with all of you that I conqured 2 of my fears... Yes Diane has fears and is human like the rest of the world..lol... I have a fear of deep water and I am also mildly closterphbic. Anyway, I swam with the Dolphins at Sea Life Park and I walked through the USS Bowfin, a submarine for those of you that aren't familiar.

I must say that it felt so empowering to do it. It really makes you realize that you should always face your fears head on and take it as it comes.

Anyway, for those of you that may be heading to the beauitufl island of Ohau, You must check out the following. These would be Diane's top picks:

- Germain's Luau - Amazing food and stage show and it all takes place on the beach. Hope you get Georgie the tour guide. She is a hoot! They make a mean Mai Tai!

- USS Arizona Memorial - They have built a whole new section of museums and displays. You can also visit the USS Missori, the Aviation museum on Ford Island, the USS Bowfin and of course the USS Arizona Memorial. If you love history, it's worth it. If anything, it give you perspective.

- Sea Life Park - Seriously go and swim with the Dolphins. Beaituful creatures!

- Moose MaGillacuddy's - Awesome Mahi Mahi and chips! Also Happy hour from 4 to 7pm.

- Waikiki Beach - I know it's touristy but it's beautiful.

- North Shore - if you surf, that's the place to go.

I can't remember the name of the bakery but they make a cake called "Haupia Cake". It's coconut cake but it's amazing! It's on Kuhio Avenue near the intersection of Seaside. Soooo Good!

Ala Moana Shopping Mall - OMG, if you love to shop like I do, it's a must. It's like Hawaii's West Edmonton mall.

So there you have it kittens... Now I'm back home getting ready for the holidays and relaxing. I've got some gigs going on and then it's New Years at The Blue Crab.

Lots going on in the new year but I'll keep that for another post. Thanks again for all of your love and support.

May this holiday season bring you lots of love and laughter. Be good to one another and stay safe.

Merry Christmas!
Blessings...]]> http://dianepancelmusic.com/news.html#14 Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0800 dianepancelmusic - DIANE PANCEL - BLOG