Barbra Preisman is such an eloquent and gifted singer, it’s hard to believe she’s only 17, her friend says.

“I knew this kid was born to perform,” says Ricki Rosen. “I felt very privileged to witness her growth.”

Preisman, “Barbie” to her friends, will perform live on Canadian Idol on CTV this Tuesday, competing against seven other Idol hopefuls. Two of them will move on to the final 10.

Preisman decided to try out for Idol as soon as she heard when auditions would be held in Toronto.

Rosen says Preisman’s hopes increased as the auditions progressed.

“She really believed her chances were slim till she began hearing some of the others singing.”

She advanced of course, and can now add Top 32 Canadian Idol finalist to her resume.

It will be the first professional experience she will add to that resume. She’s been singing and playing piano since she was six years old. At 12, she sang in front of a dinner party hosted by her mother. She also writes songs (”great ballads,” says Rosen).

Rosen has faith in her friend, but is hesitant to predict what can happen On Tuesday.

“She’s much more comfortable at the piano like Alicia Keys or Diana Krall. I do know the kids there are under great pressure, yet Barbie has never been known to give up. She’s a hard worker who will succeed at anything she tries.”

And if she doesn’t end up becoming the third Canadian Idol winner, Rosen hopes someone will recognize her friend’s talents.

“We’re all rooting for her and hoping someone in the business will watch her and see what we’ve known for so long.”






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