Michele Pillar

Michele Pillar has been said to have "The voice of an angel."Involved with music since her childhood in L.A., Michele approached her first love not only with the innocence of youth, but also with the premature wisdom that comes from growing up in unsettled surroundings. In part to escape from the effects of her parents' and siblings' alcohol abuse, she found refuge in music and writing stories. These gifts were her "way out" and have carried her far away from her painful beginnings. Yet today, she exudes compassion, tenderness and a refreshing sense of humor because of those roots."When I was younger, I truly believed my childhood was my greatest weakness and would eventually be my downfall. I now know that humble beginnings can be our greatest source of strength." says Pillar.A three-time Grammy Award nominee, Michele has toured the world since the mid-seventies working with The Billy Graham Association, performing live for the King of Thailand and has been a regular guest on Dr. Robert Schuller's The Hour Of Power television program since 1976.After taking much needed time off to spend time with her family, Katie, Travis and husband Larry Carlton, she's returned to full time ministry combining speaking, singing and even acting to create an evening of ministry that comes only with time and life experiences.Her husband of 20 years, guitarist, Larry Carlton recorded a Christmas CD with Michele in 2006: I Hear Angels Calling.In 2000, Michele founded and became the president of Closer to Home, a non-profit agency that provides for needy residents of middle Tennessee.Michele has also been involved in the Magdalene Project. Broadway actress / playwright Allison Metcalf Allen has teamed up with Grammy Nominated artists and composers Chris Eaton and Michele to bring the epic drama of Mary Magdalene, history's iconic "bad girl", to life. The fictional retelling of her search for redemption, powerfully underscored with original music, offers theatergoers an extraordinary experience of haunting beauty and depth rare in the contemporary scene. Mary's story of hurt, hope and healing has been performed in "workshop" form to over five-thousand people with actors Amick Byram (Prince Of Egypt), Jordan Sparks (2007 American Idol) and Michele; playing the the role of Naomi. Magdalene will be ready for the stage this year.Life's common challenges such as step-parenting, blended families, divorce recovery, unhealthy relationship choices and ministry burn-out are some of the subjects Michele is comfortable talking about first-hand. She also tackles crucial subjects such as moving forward in forgiveness, overcoming our pasts, and the reality of God's provision for our lives. Michele connects with her audiences with songs as well as through honest portrayals of her life."We have to find a way to forgive, let it go and move on at some point. What does not kill us makes us stronger, without a doubt!" -- Pillar