What’s better than one marvellous jazz diva? Four marvellous jazz divas, of course.
Catch Judy Rose, Anna Jacyszyn, Amanda Morazain, and Danielle Kozlowski at the Vernon Jazz Society’s 2011 fundraising gala, A Night With the Divas, Saturday.
The four divas have all performed to great acclaim at the Vernon Jazz Club and will be backed by the popular Jazz Café Band, including Neville Bowman on piano, Craig Thomson on sax, Bernie Addington on bass, and Scott Gamble on drums.
The gala will also feature a silent auction, an exciting live auction, and delicious appetizers prepared by gold medal chef Mathew Morazain.
The gala’s focus is the club’s audio system.
“Proceeds from the event are going towards our audio infrastructure upgrade project,” said Guy Morazain, the jazz society’s director of fundraising. “This will allow guest artists to produce CDs of their live performances and will enhance the musical experience for the audience.”
The upgrade will also allow aspiring musicians to produce demo CDs, and Monday night jazz jam musicians to record and review their performances, as well as students in audio engineering and music production programs to gain practical experience at the club.
Diva Rose can’t wait to get on stage.
“I am super thrilled to be performing at this fundraiser,” she said. “The VJS is a true oasis in the Okanagan, promoting jazz and blues for the area as well at the youth in our community for many years.”
Rose’s lifelong involvement in music includes singing, producing theatrical shows, and acting in a variety of productions including Cabaret.
Rose is working on her upcoming show at the VJC with her new band, Judy Rose and the Killer Bs.
Diva Jacyszyn began her professional career as a back-up vocalist in England for Yazz, Marshall Jefferson, and Cher. Moving into the jazz world, Jacyszyn travelled the world gigging for royalty and prestigious events like the hospitality VIP at the FIFA World Cups in Japan and Berlin.
She moved to Kelowna three years ago, founding the Jazz Café, a monthly speakeasy. Her efforts won her the Spirit of Kelowna Award and the 2010 Okanagan Arts Award for music.
Diva Kozlowski is a rising star on the local jazz scene. Comfortable in a wide range of musical offerings, Kozlowski has a special love for jazz. She is also one of the most sought after piano and early childhood music instructors in the valley.
Kozlowski appreciates the club’s support of local musicians.
“Being a part of a concert to benefit an organization that is just passionate about supporting local musicians is a privilege,” she said.
Diva Morazain recently recorded her debut album, Pathway, mixing smooth jazz with a modern flavour. Nominated for the B.C. Interior Music Award for Best Jazz Album of 2009, Morazain understands the significance of the audio improvements.
“This fundraiser is a great cause to upgrade the sound and recording equipment that will give musicians of all levels the tools they need to progress. I am so thrilled to be a part of the diva night.”
Doors to the Vernon Jazz Club open at 7:15 for Saturday’s 8 p.m. performance. Tickets are $50 per person in advance at the Bean Scene and Bean to Cup.
