Joyce Moreno has been praised by many musicians and critics as one of the finest Brazilian musicians working today; however, very little has been said about the elements that make her a great artist. In this special article, Thomas Cunniffe examines some of the facets of Moreno’s music that have earned her such well-deserved praise. The article includes eight embedded YouTube videos of classic Moreno performances.
JOYCE MORENO: AN APPRECIATION Read More »
In “Antony and Cleopatra”, Shakespeare wrote, “Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale, her infinite variety”. The words were originally a tribute to the Egyptian queen, but they have special significance in the career of jazz vocalist Veronica Swift. Thomas Cunniffe explores the music and life of this multi-talented young lady in this JHO Profile.
VERONICA SWIFT: “HER INFINITE VARIETY” Read More »
Anita Wardell may be the greatest singer you’ve never heard. Well-known in Europe, but barely known in the US, Wardell is one of the best scat singers in jazz today, and she also is a superb interpreter of vocalese, jazz originals and standards. Thomas Cunniffe introduces you to Wardell in this profile which features 5 complete audio selections and a video performance.
Meet Anita Wardell Read More »
Gretchen Parlato is one of the top young jazz singers on the scene today. Thomas Cunniffe profiles this extraordinary musician, and how she rediscovers the essence of jazz every night.
Gretchen Parlato: Finding The Essence Read More »
The musical worlds of soprano saxophonist Jane Ira Bloom encompass visual art, modern dance and outer space. A brilliant improviser and educator, Bloom has been a vibrant part of the jazz scene for over 30 years. Thomas Cunniffe’s profile includes detailed descriptions of her finest recordings.
As they approach their 50th anniversary, the Swingle Singers are at the top of the a cappella world. Thomas Cunniffe offers this interactive history of the group with embedded video and audio performances and a gallery of group photos.
The Swingle Singers: Making the Music Dance Read More »
Few contemporary vocalists have the stylistic range of Luciana Souza. She is a remarkable improviser and composer who can not only offer passionate interpretations of songs from America and Brazil, but is also a collaborator with contemporary classical composer Osvaldo Golijov. Thomas Cunniffe introduces you to Souza in this JHO profile, which includes audio and video clips of Souza at work.
Luciana Souza: Passion and Versatility Read More »