An accountant by profession (a number-cruncher!!!), an artist by inspiration, a music-lover by tradition, Leah Risma began singing at the age of 4, using her grandpa's electric shaver as a microphone, and the dining table as her stage. Growing up in the Philippines meant music was at the heart of her heritage. Every household, rich or poor, had a guitar and a karaoke machine! At the Risma home, a typical family get-together would not be complete without a talent show and a group dance. A typical birthday feast would involve food, fun and fellowship, followed by a friendly choral shootout.
At age 12, together with her older brother and sister, Leah began touring with the Youth Evangelistic Service (Y.E.S.) Singers, a small ensemble out of Bradford United Church of Christ in the Philippines. She moved to the U.S. at age 15 and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati. In addition to the usual solo performances, Leah has also performed with College Hill Presbyterian's Tribute, Vineyard's Remnant, Korong Pilipino. Although mostly a balladeer, she enjoys a variety of music styles from Latin to Reggae, broadway to contemporary jazz… and psalterbook's debut album "age to age" is quickly climbing to the top of her collection (a sign of her very good taste!).
Now serving as CFO of the National Coalition for the Protection of Children & Families, Leah continues to make melodies for the Master and psalterbook feels priveleged to have her with us. Welcome, Leah!
