Pamela and Kevin Hart, an iconic couple empowering jazz vocalists by entertaining Austin audiences with the best female jazz musicians, have done it again. The holiday concert that took place on December 8 at Chez Zee featured
Swanda Birch has graced the stage with Kris Kristofferson, amongst others), Pamela Hart, and Silvie Rider Young (who originally hails from Switzerland).
Each woman did two sets of three songs each. Swanda took the lead during the first set, and the song Better than Anything was a tribute to the City of Austin, so near and dear to us all. Pamela sang Carol of the Bells while Silvie’s whispery voice gave a new interpretation of Nobody Knows You When You’re Down and Out.
After the intermission and mingling with some fine folk, Swanda’s cool Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas gave the audience some leeway and a high-five to get in the groove with a bit of knee-slapping, finger-snapping, and toe-tapping. Pamela came into her own during the second set with Sweet Pumpkin. Her wide smile and open arms said to the audience, ‘I’ve arrived.’ Silvie closed the set with a French version of La Vie En Rose, which the audience appreciated, even if they didn’t understand the language (frankly, I’ve heard the song a thousand times from Edith Piaf’s original to Grace Jones’ rendition in the 1970s, and still do not know the entire meaning, so I Googled it).
I don’t know what the selection process is each year to determine who gets to perform, but supporting women jazz vocalists was a delightful experience. The backup band was stellar, particularly Michael Malone, saxophonist and oboeist; Danny Sanchez, drummer with a mischievous streak; Dr. Jeremy George, bassist; and Brian Howard, pianist.
Since its inception in 1994, the Women in Jazz Concert Series has been vital to Austin’s music landscape, offering memorable performances and educational workshops that empower aspiring vocalists. The series introduces new enhancements each year to keep its offerings fresh and relevant, reaching an increasingly diverse audience.
Originally held at Antone’s Nite Club, the series expanded to prominent venues like the Live Oak Theater at the State, the historic Victory Grill, and the Paramount Theatre. These venues have hosted renowned artists such as Dianne Reeves, Nancy Wilson, Rachelle Ferrell, and the Rushen-Carrington Quartet, solidifying Women in Jazz as a cultural institution in the city.
The program also features workshops to help non-professional vocalists develop essential performance techniques. Participants learn to communicate effectively with musicians through verbal and nonverbal cues, prepare mentally and physically for performances, and gain insights into building successful careers in the music industry.
As Austin continues to grow, so does the potential of the Women in Jazz Association. With a more extensive audience base, increasing demand for diverse and professional performances, and expanded funding opportunities, the series remains committed to evolving with the city’s dynamic cultural landscape. Women in Jazz ensures its continued impact and relevance in the community by aligning with societal changes.
For more information contact: https://womeninjazz.org/
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