An evening of vocal jazz artistry hosted by Chris McNulty

 

“An Evening of Vocal Jazz Artistry” was first conceived back in 2009 while Chris McNulty was still residing in New York City. The original concept focused on featuring the diverse vocal jazz artistry that had developed in the trenches of NYC and other cities around the USA. The collaborative element grew out of seeing impromptu performances by artists as diverse as Carol Sloane and Rebecca Paris, Sheila Jordan, Jay Clayton, Urszula Dudziak and Judy Neimack, the late great Kevin Mahogany with Kurt Elling, Nancy King with Karrin Alyson and many more. Chris found much inspiration from watching that pool of innovative vocal jazz musicians expand and develop into a strong and supportive community.

With that inspiration, after returning to Australia in early 2016 and to another community of skilled, inventive vocal musicians, Chris decided to pursue the idea of running a similar event series in Australia.

Chris is delighted to present the first series of An Evening of Vocal Jazz Artistry in Melbourne, Australia. Twelve stunning vocal musicians paired together to present a set each over six incredible nights/weeks. The collaborative element gives audiences a chance to see just how masterful, creative and adventurous Australian vocal jazz musicians are. Melbourne jazz lovers, especially those who love improvised, vocal jazz are in for a real treat. In keeping with this being a national event the series will include vocal musicians from as far and wide as Perth and Brisbane. Some pairings will feature vocal mentor with gifted young vocal student.

The mission statement for EVA speaks about community and the sharing of ideas. During her decades spent in NYC, Chris became a part of a community that saw the camaraderie between jazz vocalists grow into a vibrant and connected community.

There’s a certain kind of fearlessness, generosity of spirit and trust required when approaching improvised, vocal collaboration. Chris’ hope is that An Evening of Vocal Jazz Artistry will not only provide an opportunity to highlight the remarkable talent we have in the Australian vocal jazz community but also bring about more opportunities to gather in open, sharing, inclusive environments.

[from the media release]

Chris McNulty’s Evening of Vocal Artistry runs on Wednesday nights in May at the Jazz Lab