A Dutch veterinarian’s daughter who is building a following in the United States as a French chanteuse: That’s the story of Paulien. Growing up in a large and closely-knit Dutch family who spent long summer holidays in the French countryside, Paulien got an early exposure to the French culture and language, while back home mimicking contemporary singers like Françoise Hardy in front of a mirror with a vacuum hose. This led to her entry and ultimate win of a local singing contest in The Hague at the age of 12, heralded by the French ambassador to the Netherlands and offered a very modest recording deal for one EP at a local studio.
Occasionally performing with local musicians in her new hometown of Charlottesville, VA, Paulien ran into guitarist and composer Royce Campbell, who literarily fell in love with her voice. Within a year they recorded her self-titled album “Paulien” with all original songs written by Campbell.
Testing the market with the Royce Campbell project, Paulien started to include French repertoire in their gigs. With standing ovations for her interpretation of classics like Edith Piaf’s “La Vie en Rose” and Jacques Brel’s ”Ne Me Quitte Pas” (“If You Go Away”), the French project from which she had departed in 2001 is back on the table. Paulien’s style goes deep, straight ahead and free from vocal affectations…so, close your eyes, open your ears, and float on her rediscovered sound from Paris.
Reservations are encouraged to secure your favorite spot inside, outside, or by a fire pit! Otherwise, we welcome you to bring chairs or blankets and claim your spot on the lawn!
- Light bites and hard cider will be available for purchase by the glass, bottle, or flight.
- Outside food is welcome; feel free to bring a picnic!
- ABC laws prohibit the consumption of outside alcoholic beverages
*In the winter months and during inclement weather musicians will be setup in the Orchard Room
