Mission

"We are called to praise the one true God and to glorify His only Son, Christ Jesus. To lead others to our Lord and Savior who are seeking truth through our ministry of vocal music."

Bio

Praise-Apella is committed to using their vocal giftings "for the praise of God's glory".

Based out of Cleveland, Ohio, the founder and bass vocalist of the group, Ryan Fischer, is joined by fellow vocalists Jen Howser, Lawrence Williams, Dean Stamatis and, vocal percussionist, "Big Mike" Watkins. They are currently touring with their new CD, Love God,

Having opened for and performed with contemporary Christian recording artists MercyMe, Michael W. Smith, Natalie Grant, Jars of Clay, Brandon Heath, Nicole C. Mullen, Switchfoot, David Crowder Band, Leeland, Matthew West, Remedy Drive, Point of Grace, The Katinas, Superchic[k], AVALON,Tammy Trent, Zoe Girl, George Rowe and John Ruben. Praise-Apella is frequently heard on Cleveland's largest Contemporary Christian Radio station 95.5 The Fish.

Praise-Apella offers a unique and uplifting concert experience.

If you're a fan of inspirational music and rhythmic vocal percussion coupled with pristine vocal harmonies, make sure you do not miss Praise-Apella.

Jen Howser

OH so some of her earliest memories are attending Contemporary Christian music concerts by some of today's top artists.

Jenny was a part of the Acapella choir and madrigals singing group at Elyria high School. During one performance trip with the madrigals to Disney in Orlando Jenny earned a spot in the finals of Disney's American idol experience, where she placed 3rd .

When it comes to her Christian faith, Jenny likes to keep it real. Like the book of James says we must be doers of God's word and not simply hearers. “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says." (James 1:22)

Lawrence Williams

Lawerence was born to sing. He has been involved with music before he could even speak. He has been blessed with the opportunity to travel the world and sing internationally.

Lawrence wants to use his gift to reach people for Christ. John 3:16 is his favorite verse because it demonstrates the great love that God has for us.

Being a part of Praise-Apella has helped Lawerence to discover more ways to use his gift to express who he is a child of God. In his words, "I love evry person that is a part of this group Praise-Apella they have all touched my heart in different ways."

Dean Stamatis

Since as far back as he can remember, Dean developed an intense passion and love for music; especially vocal music. At a very early age, he was exposed to an array many musical influences. Each person, teacher and role model had helped to mold him into the person that he is today. His parents played a large role in helping to influence his desire for many musical styles.

Throughout his educational pursuits, Dean performed in several vocal ensembles including classical, renaissance, pop and jazz. In high school he sang in a vocal jazz ensemble called Roadshow. In college, he sang in Shades of Blue, a vocal jazz ensemble from Grand Rapids , MI .

It was also in college where he began to inquire about Jesus. It was at that time that he decided to give his life to Christ. It is with him and through Him that all things are possible. He now believes without a doubt that it though the gift of music that he can share his heart in ministry.

God, love, music and passion are the ingredients that make up his life. Dean feels blessed beyond belief to be a member of Praise-Apella! This recipe, which drives his existence, is how he wishes to continue to declare his faith, obedience and salvation. All that He is and has he gives to the Lord and he claims nothing solely as his own!

Ryan Fischer

Ryan was born in Cleveland, Ohio and started singing at a very early age. His love and ear for harmony began in a sixth grade choir room where he formed his very first vocal group. Through many years and styles of singing, he developed a unique bass voice that started simulating more of an instrument (bass, of course).

After singing vocal jazz in college, Ryan took his bassist voice and founded the popular a cappella group, "Partners in Rhyme." With the band's many wonderful years of accomplishments, Ryan recalls some of his favorite moments: "Singing at the Rock N' Roll Hall of Fame, opening up for Isaac Hayes at Cain Park, performing at the Moondog Coronation Ball, singing the national anthem for the Cleveland Indian's 1995 ALCS game, and singing with Sean Altman from Rockapella!"

Ryan left PIR in 2003 to pursue and form a contemporary Christian vocal band and founded Praise-Apella! As the group leader, Ryan directs the rehearsals and handles the musical arrangements. This group has allowed Ryan to dedicate his gift of music to the One who gave it to him. To Ryan, Praise-Apella is a calling from God and each day he is thankful for its members and the ministry that it provides. Ryan's greatest decision in his life was the day he received Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. And by doing so, he is forever committed by his faith and his passion for music to utilize it "for the praise of His glory." A vision worth living for!

"Big Mike" Watkins