KYRA LEIGH McKILLIP

KYRA LEIGH McKILLIP -- National Anthem @ The Liacouras Center
KYRA LEIGH -- "I Believe"
KYRA LEIGH McKILLIP, Eight-Year-Old Singing Sensation!BIOGRAPHY Everyone says that you should strive to achieve your goals and keep reaching for your star. Well, that’s exactly what one local girl is doing. KYRA LEIGH McKILLIP, a young, multi-talented performer, is armed with a heart like no other and a smile that will take your breath away. It only takes a second to realize that she’s blessed with an amazing gift — her voice! KYRA LEIGH (pronounced Keera Lee) has been singing and performing for as long as she can remember, and that’s not all that long, considering she’s only 8-years-old! Over the past two years, the stage has become her second home, allowing her to bring happiness and joy to all who hear her. KYRA LEIGH displays a wonderful sense of self-confidence and radiates professionalism. She’s sure to go far in life and become a huge star in the entertainment industry! KYRA LEIGH’s story has all the makings of a real-life miracle. At the beginning, she had her fair share of health obstacles that she miraculously overcame. KYRA LEIGH’s glorious arrival came nearly two weeks later than her prospective due date. Concerned about the delay, her parents consulted their doctor once the contractions began naturally. Upon arrival at the hospital, their doctor assured them that everything was okay, but had decided to induce labor the next morning. However, worriment and panic struck at 4 a.m., when her parents were ripped from their sleep by screaming monitors. KYRA LEIGH’s heartbeat was “lost” several times and their doctor needed to perform an emergency C-Section. After briefing them on the potentially life-threatening risks for the baby and her mother, their doctor began the procedure. Emotionally distraught and physically drained, KYRA LEIGH’s mother, Mary, who had just lost her father eight days before, found herself caught in another whirlwind of emotions. Forty-minutes later, on November 9, 2000, KYRA LEIGH was born. KYRA LEIGH and her mother were fine; however, the light at the end of their tunnel was instantly dimmed when they were told that, before birth, the umbilical cord was wrapped around her neck and that she had swallowed meconium while in the bone-dry uterus. KYRA LEIGH was immediately placed in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), where she remained for three days. “It’s a miracle (KYRA LEIGH) survived under those conditions,” said their doctor. She then told KYRA LEIGH’s parents to brace themselves for a series of potential “complications,” including breathing problems and speech deficiencies. Fortunately, KYRA LEIGH beat the odds and, today, is healthier and stronger than ever! She won the battle for life, was spared communicative difficulties, and instead, was blessed with a remarkable God-given gift that she graciously shares with us today — her singing voice!KYRA LEIGH began singing in her hometown of Ridley Park, PA when she was only 3-years-old! Her parents quickly discovered that she possessed a very special talent. She was always singing at home for her family and friends, but her parents also wanted to give her an opportunity to perform on the outside too. Around that time, KYRA LEIGH’s grandparents were out to dinner at a local Glenolden restaurant/bar, called Sam’s Saloon. They frequented this venue and knew of Joe Staffieri, a musician and entertainer, who often played there. KYRA LEIGH’s paternal grandfather approached Staffieri and mentioned that his granddaughter sang. Shortly after, KYRA LEIGH’s parents brought her into Sam’s to sing for Staffieri. Without any hesitation, she belted out Annie’s theme of hope and optimism, “Tomorrow,” and blew the house down! Floored by what he heard, Staffieri invited KYRA LEIGH to perform with his band, The Joe Staffieri Band, at Sam’s and, later, at several other local showcases. KYRA LEIGH has since become a regular performer at Sam’s and is often requested by their frequent customers.With the overwhelming public response, KYRA LEIGH's parents knew that she would need to begin developing her voice safely and properly. As a result, she and her father, George, began traveling to Philadelphia for professional vocal lessons. KYRA LEIGH started working with JBCMUSIC coaching, under the tutelage and direction of renowned vocal coach, Joseph B. Clayton. Clayton has worked closely with Joanna Pacitti, former Geffen Records recording artist and “American Idol” Season 8 contestant, and has previously coached Bianca Ryan, former Columbia Records/Syco recording artist and first winner of “America’s Got Talent.” Since starting her vocal training, KYRA LEIGH has soared to new heights and continues to do so. She’s been at working on her voice, musicianship skills, and musicality, with an emphasis on breathing, stylizing, and proper voice conditioning. Every precaution is being taken to protect and safeguard her precious gift. “Like a pro, she owns her songs and commands her stage with such poise,” says Clayton. “She’s fearless and her confidence shows.” It’s difficult for people to believe that she’s only 8! Her pitch control, power, and performance amazes people of all ages, leaving them to wonder how it comes from such a tiny girl. “A tiny girl with a big voice,” adds Clayton. “KYRA LEIGH is a force to be reckoned with!” Her main goal is clear and simple — to entertain — and as long as she has an audience, that’s exactly what she will do.Throughout her short life, KYRA LEIGH has had the opportunity to perform on many stages. Her credits include being cast as a lead in two different stage productions of “The Sound of Music,” singing the national anthem for Nassau Swim Club’s home swim meets, and performing as a soloist for Calvary Lutheran Church. She was also featured as a guest performer in Dance Kidz’ ninth annual recital production, “5, 6, 7, 8,” performed at Saint Donato’s Italian Festival, as well as at Rose Tree Park, two consecutive years. KYRA LEIGH has even caught the eye of Debra Michaels (recording artist, Robbins Records), Mark Ballas (“Dancing with the Stars” and Hollywood Records artist, “Ballas Hough Band”), and Philadelphia’s own Joanna Pacitti (former Geffen Records recording artist/songwriter). As a long-time friend of KYRA LEIGH’s vocal coach, Joanna willingly offered her own personal arrangement of the inspirational song, “I Believe,” for her to record, as well as her unconditional support for the project. “KYRA LEIGH’s talent is incredible,” says Joanna. “I’ve never heard such great pitch on a child her age... she’s going to go far as a singer!” Wherever she goes, KYRA LEIGH impacts people of all ages, “wowing” her audiences with her powerful belting voice and likable personality. “I love to sing for people… it makes me feel so good,” says KYRA LEIGH. “It’s the best feeling in the whole world!” It’s undeniably certain that KYRA LEIGH has a passion for singing and a love of music and performing. You can see it… you can hear it… you can feel it!While at home, KYRA LEIGH can usually be found in front of a mirror belting her little heart out! However, her singing doesn’t stop there. Even when she’s out in public, she catches the attention of others by singing for anyone who will listen. She says her favorite part of performing is the response she gets from her audience. “I love making people smile,” says KYRA LEIGH. “The best part is when the audience cheers and claps for me!” Even though she’s young, KYRA LEIGH is becoming a versatile singer, possessing a deep appreciation for all genres of music. Her eclectic taste, ability to connect and interpret music and lyrics, coupled with her willingness to try new musical styles, greatly contribute to the wide range of material she currently performs. Whether it's a Broadway showtune, Disney® theme, country ditty, or power ballad, she can adapt to it all, naturally, while stylizing it to make it her own. She uses singing as a means of expression — an outlet for emotion — and is very dedicated to the craft and artistry of vocalizing. Those who have worked with KYRA LEIGH know her work ethic is superb, and, at times, find it easy to forget that she’s not an adult.When she’s not performing, KYRA LEIGH enjoys just being a kid! She loves swimming, drawing, coloring, and spending time with her family and friends, especially her younger brother, Timmy. As for aspirations, this 8-year-old wants to learn to play the piano and someday perform in New York City and, of course, Hollywood! She also started second grade this past September and is enjoying every minute of it. She works diligently, as she does with everything in her life, and receives very high grades. No matter what KYRA LEIGH attempts, she works hard and always makes the mark!KYRA LEIGH acquired the entertainment representation of JBCMUSIC management and is currently in the studio recording material for a new demo. She is seeking work in all facets of the industry, including acting, modeling and singing. KYRA LEIGH is available both on and off stage for solo performances, the national anthem, print, voiceovers, and/or commercials. Recently, she was spotlighted as a guest vocalist at Dance Kidz’ 10th anniversary recital production, “A Wild Party!,” as well as at Rose Tree Park, a third year in a row. She performed a “one-girl” show for the Philadelphia Ronald McDonald House and its guests, as well as the national anthem at The Liacouras Center and Wachovia Spectrum.KYRA LEIGH’s talents are endless — she’s a triple threat plus! She’s self-motivated, determined, and plans to continue to pursue her dream of becoming a professional singer so she can share her voice with the world and make people smile. There’s no stopping her! Keep your eyes and ears open for this singing sensation. You’re sure to be hearing a lot more about her in the very near future. The sky’s the limit for this rising star! “Get ready world… here comes KYRA LEIGH McKILLIP!”Author: J. Clayton