Maria Abous: The Sound of (Christmas) Music

Introducing a new voice for favorite holiday classics

As the holiday season approaches, music lovers are in for a treat as Maria Abous unveils her exquisite new album Merry Little Christmas. The enchanting soprano songstress, celebrated for her rich vocals, comedic timing and emotional depth, is briskly drawing steep comparisons. With a background steeped in both theatrical and classical training and a deep appreciation for jazz, Abous has officially entered the ranks as a promising crossover artist.

From Childhood Classics To Releasing Music Of Her Own

Maria Abous’s earliest memories watching classic films like The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins ignited a passion for performance, eventually leading her to pursue formal music education at Columbia University and Longy School of Music. It was during these formative years that she honed her skills and developed the foundation for her artistic identity.

Her latest record—featuring songs in collaboration with musicians Nicolas Hetko, Philippe Lemm, Johannes Felscher, Jas Walton, Rita Andrade, and Jacob Snider to name a few—captures the essence of her sound: a unique blend of theater, classical music and jazz that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Collaborations On Merry Little Christmas

Hetko (Piano), Lemm (Percussion), Felscher (Bass), Andrade (Strings), and Snider (Producer) are credited on Abous’s track “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” while Walton (Saxophone) joined Hetko, Lemm, Felscher, and Snider in collaboration on “You Make Me Feel So Young.”

“Singing with these artists is a masterclass in musicianship, creative flow and generosity,” she says. “They have informed my sense of what it means to be a true ‘crossover’ artist.” The result: an album that is not only musically virtuosic but also deeply in touch with the emotional nuances of the songs.

Finding Meaning Through Motherhood

Abous draws upon her own experience of early motherhood to infuse the music with authenticity and depth: “This album was inspired by seeing the wonder of the holidays through my children’s eyes,” she explains, “and really wanting to protect that magic.”

Her gorgeous rendition on reflective songs like “Christmas Lullaby” is counterbalanced with the lightheartedness of songs like “You Make Me Feel So Young.” Track after track really captures the duality of sentiments that often arise during the holidays. Her take on “My Favorite Things” effortlessly integrates the whimsy of phrases like “schnitzel with noodles” with an understanding of the emotional responsibility of comforting a young one.

A Promising Future For Maria Abous

Abous’s performances have garnered critical acclaim, with recent appearances at iconic New York City venues hailing her potential as a leading lady in the musical theater world. She has a voice that begs for lush orchestration.

As she continues to build a following, Maria Abous’s aspirations remain firmly rooted in her identity as both an artist and a young mother. “I hope that long after I’m gone, my family will know my love for them through this music,” she reflects. Merry Little Christmas is deeply personal for her, and that is very much evidenced in the music.

Perhaps her name is no coincidence. Maybe just listen, like surrendering to a mother who knows exactly what one needs to hear to remember that they are deeply loved.