While studying at Ball State University he worked as a writer, actor, director, and troupe musician in the university's premiere comedy troupe Absolunacy, where he was voted Member of the Year in 1997. After Absolunacy, he went on to work with the professional comedy troupes Charlemagne and the Concrete Ballet and The Collective as the primary musical force for each. All was not comedy in college for André. He also performed regularly in the bands Robin Goodfellow and June Star as a bassist, guitarist, and vocalist. Here he began to develop his acoustic solo act, as well as a witty rapport with a live audience in the coffee houses and bars of Muncie, IN. One of André's songs, Take, Hold, Listen appears in the student-produced film The Way Out. After leaving Ball State André moved to Northern Michigan to join some of his favorite folk and rock acts in a lively and intimate music scene. He has performed with local greats New Third Coast, Angela Josephine, Andy Six, and Jenny Thomas. Though often playing solo he can be seen with Dennis Palmer and Nick Talantis in the folk trio Wonderdog. In 2003 André released his first album, Gum Wrapper Roses, which is now heard in twelve countries (including Antarctica). André showed his versatility in April of 2007, performing an Italian Aria while touring with the The Solar Trio, featuring Crispin Campbell, Grammy winner Paul Sullivan, and Gabe Bolkosky. André Will release his second album Roadworthy in June 2007. "[André] was a sheer delight. Professional in every way, a voice full of honey and cream, and a heart full of love and joy. What more could you ask for?" -Grammy winner Paul Sullivan André has opened for Chris Smither, Jill Jack, Michael Jerome Browne, and Dana Cooper. Click here to contact Mr. Villoch |
