“Strait of Dover” is a Family Affair and the Second Single from the Forthcoming Debut EP
FFO: Mitski, Laufey
Upcoming Shows:
The Piano Bar Upstairs at Fraunces Tavern
Saturday, Dec. 7 and Sunday, December 21 at 8 pm
54 Pearl Street, FiDi, NYC with Lauren Geber Marquez
New York, NY | December 6, 2024: Kristin Pepper, New York City-based singer-songwriter and first-time recording artist, unveils her second single, the breathtakingly orchestrated “Strait of Dover,” now available on all streaming platforms. This release marks another milestone in Pepper’s debut EP, showcasing her deep-rooted musical heritage and collaborative spirit.
Written by Kristin Pepper and arranged for band by her son Wyatt Pepper who brought with him to the studio a talented group of colleagues, namely Coleman Breining on drums and Erin Famous on violin and electric bass.
“Strait of Dover” is a poignant tribute to resilience and hope. The song serves as a love letter to those navigating difficult times, offering encouragement to persevere.
A performer who has graced the historic Fraunces Tavern in downtown Manhattan for years alongside her sister Lauren Geber Marquez, Kristin (maiden name Geber) draws from a lifetime of music shaped by her artistic family. Both parents are classically trained musicians with highly successful careers with Cleveland Opera and The Cleveland Orchestra, and her son Wyatt is currently a student at Eastman School of Music. During a break from his studies, Wyatt brought “Strait of Dover” to life, arranging Kristin’s original piano composition for a full band. With the help of his talented peers, the song was recorded at Behind the Curtains Media studios in Brooklyn, under the expert guidance of producer and engineer Mike Abiuso.
Kristin adds,
“Last summer, my son Wyatt was hearing me practice piano and vocals at home, as I often do, and he lit a fire under me, so to speak. He said he thought my originals were good enough to get them recorded – so the entire idea of releasing an EP came from him.” – KP
“Strait of Dover” opens with a delicate synth string section, paired with Kristin’s crystal-clear vocals and a steady bass line soon leads to her signature piano lines. The full orchestration creates a lush, cinematic soundscape. Kristin’s sister Lauren contributes harmony vocals, while Wyatt performs on flugelhorn, adding a warm, mellow tone to the arrangement. Despite its grandeur, the track was completed in just one day, proving the power of passion and collaboration.
With its rich instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, “Strait of Dover” invites listeners to find strength in the face of adversity. The song is a testament to Kristin’s ability to craft deeply moving, evocative music, further establishing her as an artist to watch.
“Strait of Dover” is available now on all streaming platforms.
ABOUT: Kristin Pepper is a New York City-based singer-songwriter, who has been performing in residence alongside her sister Lauren Geber Marquez at the historic Fraunces Tavern in lower Manhattan every weekend for the past three years. Known for her captivating performances as a piano-bar entertainer, Kristin’s lifelong passion for music stems from a deep-rooted classical background. Raised by professional musicians—her parents performed with the Cleveland Orchestra and Cleveland Opera—Kristin studied classical piano and bassoon, influences that continue to shape her musical journey.
Now embarking on a new chapter, she is set to release her music on streaming platforms this November, blending her classical roots with modern songwriting and production. Her background in theater adds a rich storytelling dimension to her songs, which are filled with moments of reflection and emotional depth. Kristin’s lyrics often delve into the complexities of adulthood, offering an authentic exploration of life’s transitions.
Inspired by artist Jacob Collier’s advice to “make what you wish existed,” Kristin approaches music as a personal passion and a family affair. Her debut record features contributions from her sister Lauren and her son Wyatt, a jazz trumpet player who helped arrange the album. This collaboration reflects her belief that music is family, and for her, music is life.
PRESS CONTACT: Suzanne Torrison, [email protected]
ARTIST CONTACT: Kristin Pepper, [email protected]
