Amber Fleury: Lead Vocals
Amber Fleury is a seasoned vocalist and performer who began her singing career at the tender age of 5 years. Since that time, she has accomplished a great deal in the music industry including recording, appearing on national television shows, and performing all across Canada at various functions including corporate events, weddings and summer festivals. She recorded her first album “Lila’s Child” at the age of 13. Since then she has recorded a few more albums, her most recent being “Casey, Ashley and Amber” by “Braided” – the trio that was formed after 2005’s season of Canadian Idol, on which Amber peaked as a top 8 finalist. In 2010, Amber joined forces with three elite Calgary musicians (Gene Strandquist, Alida Schedel and John Thiel) to form “The Amber Fleury Band”, a great mix of country, rock and classic rock. They have a blast playing together and it shows!
Gene Strandquist: Bass Guitar/Vocals
Gene Strandquist is a multi-instrumentalist who has played bass and sung in numerous bands, as well as fronted bands as lead vocalist. He played piano and sang lead in a Beatles tribute band and he’s played in both classical and jazz ensembles. Gene is Amber’s songwriting partner apart from having his own CD. He is a music teacher by day and composes music in his spare time. He has played with the likes of Kelly Jay of “Crowbar”, Amos Garret, and Ronnie King of the “Stampeders”. He has a Bachelor of Music in theory and composition.
Alida Schedel: Drums/Vocals
Alida Schedel is a stellar drummer and vocalist. She is a full-time musician who has played with numerous bands over the years. She also hosts numerous jams in her spare time. Her natural way with the crowd and bubbly personality make her a wonderful asset to the group. On her open weekends, she fronts her own band “Happy Ending” and does a lot of freelance work. She recently began teaching drums and thoroughly enjoys sharing her knowledge and expertise with her students. Her vast experience in the music industry makes her one of Calgary’s most “in demand” musicians.
John Thiel: Lead Guitar/Vocals
John Thiel is a Calgary-based guitarist who has been involved in the music industry for more than 30 years. As well as extensive club and touring dates, he is also very active in the recording industry. Alongside his wife, he owns and operates Horizon Music Inc.; a music school/recording studio/music store. In addition to producing projects for artists and songwriters, John works with Six Degrees and Red Shift Studios for television, film, documentary and video game music production. He has worked with artists such as Tom Jackson, Lisa Brokop, Chris Cummings, Duane Steele, Michelle Wright and Amy Sky.
