What people are saying about Valerie Maze
What the Press is Saying
“...Musical ‘Six,’ about Henry VIII’s wives, is unapologetically revisionist. That’s why it’s successful… The all-female band, led by keyboardist Valerie Maze, is right onstage, and the energy level is high.”
Margaret Gray, Los Angeles TimesSIX the Musical, First National Tour
“Which, let's face it, is entirely what's needed for a performance that wants its audience screaming in sisterly solidarity every time Valerie Maze's four-person Ladies in Waiting band fires up the music.”
Evan Henerson, Broadway WorldSIX the Musical, First National Tour
“With conductor/keyboardist Valerie Maze on piano and a three-piece mini-band in the pit, “Forever Plaid” offers a retro world of musical riches.”
Catey Sullivan, Chicago Sun-TimesForever Plaid, Drury Lane Theatre
“But even though “Evita” ends in the distant past, Dodge’s staging feels eerily of-the-moment. And under Valerie Maze’s music direction, the lush, intricate score has never sounded better.”
Catey Sullivan, Chicago Sun-TimesEvita, Drury Lane Theatre
“But, ultimately, A Little Night Music, is a most romantic chamber piece devoted to the awakened passions of the players as they evoke the harmonies of Sondheim’s waltz time score. Valerie Maze has her five-member orchestra nimbly extolling the hauntingly beautiful score.”
Tom Williams, Chicago CriticA Little Night Music, Writers Theatre
“To complement this exquisite cast, we have the expert music direction of Valerie Maze, who conducts the five person chamber ensemble with great skill…”
Bob Bullen, Huffington PostA Little Night Music, Writers Theatre
“The all-important music is presided over by musical director Valerie Maze and musical supervisor Roberta Duchak, both of whom ensure formidable vocal quality — at times, forming a truly remarkable mix of acoustic sound — accompanied by a lovely quintet of piano, violin, cello, woodwinds and harp. Even though the Lieder Singers are mostly combined with the principals and the cast reduced to 11, “A Little Night Music” has rarely sounded better.”
Chris Jones, Chicago TribuneA Little Night Music, Writers Theatre
“Director Gary Griffin add his magic touch to this production of “Gypsy”, with the collaborative efforts of musical director Rick Fox, with the same gusto he has with several recent Sondheim revivals like “Follies,” and “Sunday in the Park with Goerge.” Under music director Fox and conductor Valerie Maze’s orchestra the play realizes its much touted musical legacy.”
Syd Slobodnik, ReadbuzzGypsy, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre
“…the twelve-piece orchestra conducted from a grand piano by Valerie Maze—under the music direction of Brad Haak with orchestral reductions by David Siegel—does provide a surprisingly big sound that stays true to the score.”
Dennis Polkow, Newcity StageFollies, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre
What People Are Saying
“Valerie was the perfect musical collaborator in my time at the Lyric Opera of Chicago — kind, clear, and immensely musical, and always ready to handle everything that came her way, whether at the piano, on the podium, or coaching the singers.”
David ChaseMusic Director, Supervisor and Arranger
Photo courtesy of Kyle Flubacher
“Valerie Maze is an exceptional Musical Director and Conductor. Having worked alongside her for over a decade, I am thrilled to celebrate her as not only a brilliant musician but also an invaluable colleague and cherished friend. She effortlessly leads any room she enters, bringing her unique style that makes everyone feel instantly supported and comfortable, allowing them to do their best work. I am always deeply grateful to collaborate with her.”
Roberta DuchakNorth American Music Supervisor, SIX the Musical
“A tremendously skilled musician, a passionate collaborator, and a truly exceptional human being; Valerie Maze creates an environment that fosters limitless creativity, possibility, and joy.”
Elizabeth MargoliusStage and Movement Director
“Valerie Maze is the type of creative leader you want in the room: brilliant, collaborative, courageous, and kind. Behind the keys and on the podium, Val is a tour de force of musical direction.”
David CoolidgeDirector of Musical Theatre, Ohio Northern University
“Valerie Maze excels as both a music director and educator, seamlessly blending her passion for teaching with her extensive experience in the musical theatre industry. With every production she undertakes, Valerie's expertise as a music director shines brilliantly, leaving an indelible mark on each performance. Moreover, her innovative teaching techniques inspire and empower students to excel in the classroom and on stage.”
Brian KremerMusic Theatre Program Coordinator, Elon University
“Valerie Maze is one of the most influential and impactful mentors that I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and working with. A master of her craft, she has a keen eye for detail and high standards of perfection. As a coach, she provides masterful insight with choices grounded in reality and industry knowledge. I cannot recommend her highly enough and am so grateful to her for all she has taught me and continues to teach me.”
Liat ShuflitaPerformer
“I consider Valerie Maze to be one of the most impactful mentors I’ve ever had the privilege of working with. Her vast musical knowledge, experience in professional theater and opera spaces, and gift for connecting with students have inspired me both as a working performer and as an educator!”
Andrew Stevens PurdyBroadway performer and educator
“Val formed terrific relationships with the singers and orchestra members, and was so easy and fun to work with. She was a wonderful collaborator , has great taste, and has a great balance of give and take, which is so vital and necessary to our process. I've always trusted her work, and I would do a show with her again in a heartbeat!”
Greg VinklerArtistic Director, Peninsula Players Theatre, 1992-2021
“Working and collaborating with Val has been one of the most deeply gratifying times of my career. Having the opportunity to work with Val as an MD gives me hope in the industry that there are real leaders that see past their egos and have a strong desire to uphold the artistic integrity of any show and at the same time allowing space to expand and explore for growth. I would say yes to any gig that had her name in the hat and she is a force in the field.”
Rose Laguana, GuitaristSIX The Musical, Cirque Du Soleil
