by Kelly Rogge, KCKCC
Kansas City Kansas Community College will play host to the critically acclaimed jazz ensemble The New York Voices this month, and tickets still remain for the concert.
Known for their close-knit voicings, inspired arrangements and unparalleled vocal blend, New York Voices interests are deeply rooted in jazz, Brazilian, rhythm and blues, classical and pop.
Formed by Darmon Meader, Peter Eldridge, Kim Nazarian, and Lauren Kinhan, New York Voices had their first performances in 1988. In 1989, they signed their first record deal with GRP Records and released a self-titled debut album. The group will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year.
The New York Voices will have a Vocal Jazz Residency Jan. 22 and 23 in Kansas City. On Jan. 22, the group will have a concert at 7 p.m. at Community Christian Church, 4601 Main St. in Kansas City, Missouri, and the tickets are $20. KCKCC’s The Standard Vocal Jazz Ensemble will be the opening act that evening.
Students who will be performing include:
• Soprano 1 – Morgan Sanguinetti and Lexie Freeman
• Soprano 2 – Olivia Dotson and Paige Vogel
• Alto – Lacey Dean and Maddie Birdashaw
• Tenor – Ernesto Hodison, Noah Haskin and Trevor Thoelke
• Bass – Josiah Moreno and Adam Bender
• Rhythm section – Dr. Justin Binek, piano and assistant professor of music at KCKCC; Robert Castillo, bass; Antonio Reyes, drums; Stephanie Willis and Brady Rose, sound techs and John Stafford II, director.
On Jan. 23, KCKCC will play host to The New York Voices Master Class from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center on the KCKCC Main Campus, 7250 State Ave.
For more information on the New York Voices Residency or the vocal program at KCKCC, contact John Stafford at [email protected] or call 913-288-7137.