By Elizabeth Graham
It is the best kept secret in the jazz world right here in Seattle! OK it’s not really a secret any more but actually a fantastically successful first season for the JazzVox concert series hosted by Nich Anderson. He is one talented singer in his own right with the lauded Seattle Jazz Singers and BlueStreet Jazz Voices. This has been a glorious dream come true for Nich, and I for one have been so privileged to see the brightest vocal jazz stars shine in the comfort of his own home (in Auburn).
Vocalists including the incomparable Nancy King, John Proulx, Roz Corral, Pinky Waters, Marguerite Juenemann, and Kelley Johnson have graced his stage with extraordinary class and excellence, each bringing their own personal style and unique gifts. Not only will you be treated to exceptional artists from near and far, but after the show, a sumptuous gourmet buffet beckons you, lovingly created by Patti Carr, a close friend and colleague of Nich’s. She also hosts JazzVox concerts in her lovely new home on Camano Island with husband, Andy Carr, a sensational pianist for the BlueStreet Jazz Voices. I had the pleasure of seeing Jackie Ryan sing so brilliantly in their home, as well as Seattle’s own, ever-amazing Greta Matassa, who shared the evening with Patti Wicks, a pianist/singer of great distinction.
It goes without saying that the musicians who accompany each vocalist in the series are also a rare treat, with the likes of fine bassists Doug Miller and Chuck Kistler, famed guitarist Andre Bush, and piano phenoms Randy Halberstadt and Bill Anschell.
The 2009 JazzVox concert line-up (through June) is as follows:
Sat, January 10 – Kathleen Grace & Darin Clendenin – Auburn
Sun, January 11 – Kathleen Grace & Darin Clendenin – Camano Island
Fri, March 6 – Stephanie Nakasian & Hod O’Brien – Camano Island
Fri, April 17 – John Proulx, Thomas Marriott, & Chuck Kistler – Camano Island
Sat, April 18 – John Proulx scat workshop – Auburn
Sat, April 18 – John Proulx, Thomas Marriott, & Chuck Kistler – Auburn
Sat, May 9 – Chris McNulty w/ TBD – Auburn
Sun, May 10 – Chris McNulty w/ TBD – Camano Island
Sat, June 13 – Nancy King and Glen Moore “King & Moore” – Auburn
Sun, June 14 – Nancy King and Glen Moore “King & Moore” – Camano Island
What an array of gifted artists – not to be missed! If this sounds like exactly your cup of tea, it’s so easy to be a part of by going to JazzVox.com and checking out all the fabulous artists and concerts, previously held and upcoming. After making your selections, simply reserve your seat via advance donation either by check or PayPal online. You will be assured of a beautiful evening with good friends, great cuisine and an intimate setting to hear the very finest vocal jazz. It is truly a gem of a concert series and a special gift to the Seattle Jazz Scene – we’ll see you there!
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Saxophonist Jacob Stickney debuts a new group this Thursday at Egan’s Ballard Jam House featuring Mack Grout on piano, Devin Lowe on bass and Adam Kessler at the drums.
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