Results for "Vocal Instructor"

Melissa Kassel

Melissa Kassel is renown for her bold and expressive vocal style that has been praised by both music critics and jazz enthusiasts throughout the world. She is an evocative performer whose sensitivity to the nuances of words and phrasing, unique use of microtones, and raw passion, enable her to transcend to the “cutting edge” of jazz vocalization She is a challenging, risk-taking jazz vocalist whose interpretations of standards have inspired comparisons to Betty Carter and Sheila Jordan; at times, she also brings to mind the underrated Jeanne Lee.

Kassel, however, never sounds like she is emulating any of her influences; the singer is fairly original and has a recognizable style of post-bop. While Kassel brings sensitivity and vulnerability to her performances, she isn't the sort of singer who is willing to do anything-and-everything to be accessible. Kassel can be abstract and cerebral, and like Carter, Jordan, and Lee, she is someone who needs to be accepted on her own terms.

Marc Smason

Born: June 18, 1951

Trombonist/vocalist/composer, Marc Smason learned to sing as a child in Texas and studied classical trombone in Seattle and Los Angeles with Stu Dempster, Julian Priester, Ken Cloud & Slide Hampton. Voice with Jay Clayton (jazz), Yo Jin Chong (Korean) & Ki Wasitodipuro (Javanese). B.F.A. - California Institute of the Arts and a member of International Federation of Musicians - local 76-493. Marc has taught private lessons and workshops throughout his career. He has performed around the world with such luminaries as the Funk Brothers, Benny Green, Baby Gramps, Andy Statman, Big Joe Turner, Perry Robinson, Sam Shepard, Julian Priester, Sonny Simmons, Jeff Johnson and the Ivar's clams

April Hall

April Hall is the consummate jazz vocalist, combining her deep roots in southern gospel and blues with an honest soulfulness and effervescent jazz sophistication that shines through in every undeniably swinging performance. Her voice, described as “Glorious” by the Boston Globe, is an instrument of breathtaking richness and versatility, capable of ranging from the purest whisper to the most powerful heartfelt delivery. Hall’s masterful performances are always centered on bringing every song to life through emotional interpretation, playful phrasing, and rock solid rhythm