Musician Spotlight: Eleanor Kleiner

Aug 21, 2023

Eleanor Kleiner is a singer/songwriter and one-half of Franco-American folk rock duo The Whispering Tree. Eleanor attended music school in London and there met life partner Elie Brangbour, the other half of The Whispering Tree. The pair’s debut, Go Call the Captain, was named “one of the year’s most luminous albums” by The Big Takeover Magazine, and NYC’s The Deli magazine called The Whispering Tree “one of the most talented duos to take stage in NYC.”

We asked Eleanor to share some musical background, the details of the injury that required MTF assistance, and what’s to come in 2023:

What inspired you to start playing music?

I think I was drawn to the emotionality of music from a young age and kind of fascinated by its ability to evoke and express emotions. But most importantly it just felt good!

Who are some of your musical inspirations?

I grew up listening to The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, and Nancy Griffith – basically whatever cassette tapes my parents had lying around. Then I discovered a love for musical theater, Motown, and 90’s grunge. So I’m sure I’ve drawn inspiration from all of that. Lately, I’ve been listening to Merry Clayton, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, and Under The Rug.

What was the injury that brought you to MTF and how did the injury affect your music?

I fractured two fingers on my fretting hand, so I couldn’t play guitar or piano. The injury also occurred just as I was trying to get back to touring after our forced pandemic hiatus, so it was another set back to contend with.

What was your experience with receiving care through MTF and your recovery afterwards?

I stumbled upon MTF after many hours spent searching for an orthopedist I could afford without insurance. I reached out by email and a couple hours later I was on the phone with Irene, and the next week I had an appointment with Dr. Barron. The whole process was so easy and compassionate. Luckily I didn’t need surgery, but I received excellent care throughout the healing process to ensure that my hand healed properly. My fingers are back to full functionality now! It was hands down (no pun intended) the best healthcare experience I’ve ever had in the US.

What’s coming up for you?

Right now I’m focused on writing and would like to get back in the studio in the near future!

Where can people find out more about you and your music?

You can find music, videos and merch at thewhisperingtree.com 

 

Listen to their work:

Musician Spotlight: Nicolas Dominguez

What inspired you to start playing music? My parents are responsible for my musical upbringing. Growing up I listened to all kinds of music with my family in the car and at home. Who are some of your musical inspirations Radiohead, of course. Cursive, Joy Division, Delta Sleep, Coheed and Cambria, Fugazi, My teachers Daxun […]

Musician Spotlight: Dr. Ben Wong

What inspired you to start playing music? I started playing the piano when I was 5 years old and my parents encouraged me to keep playing. It wasn’t until college that I realized I was very passionate about music. I think my parents’ persistence in music education planted a seed in me and it blossomed […]

Musician Spotlight: Peggy Stern

What inspired you to start playing music? I began playing as a small child; I actually wrote my first tune at the age of 6 but then was encouraged to become a pianist, later being educated at the Eastman School of Music (BM), and New England Conservatory (MM). I have been a musician my entire […]