“The Jazz Vocal
Coalition is a fantastic organization of dedicated singers to better
the acceptance and reputation of the human voice…”-- Sheila
Jordan
 Paula Lammers, Photo by Andrea Canter Nationwide, jazz vocalists have banded
together to promote the evolution of vocal jazz through the Jazz
Vocal Coalition. With a mission “to create a worldwide community of
jazz singers in order to share knowledge and experience, recognize
outstanding achievements, and to encourage the highest standards of
professionalism, musicianship and artistry,” the JZVOC currently
has chapters in only three cities—Los Angeles, New York, and
Minneapolis. The fact that we have a chapter in the Twin Cities is
no surprise—the depth of vocal talent, jazz and otherwise, in this
area is by far out of proportion to our population. Currently, 20
area vocalists make up the Minnesota Coalition.
Since September 2005, the Coalition has
been performing monthly Showcases at the Dakota in downtown
Minneapolis (usually during the first week of the month). Past
showcases have been well attended and indeed have showcased the
incredible talent in our area. Typically there are three vocalists
each evening, presenting a series of short sets that offer each the
opportunity to introduce the audience to his or her unique talents
and the general pleasures of vocal jazz. Some sets include duo or
trio performances as well, and always the rhythm section includes the
finest Twin Cities’ pianists, bassists, and drummers.
On Wednesday, May 3, three soloists
with first-rate credentials—Dorothy Doring, Rhonda Laurie, and Paul
Lammers--will rotate sets of song at the Dakota, backed by the
talented rhythm section of Chris Lomheim (piano), Gradyon Peterson
(bass), and Jay Epstein (drums).
 Dorothy Doring, photo by Andrea Canter Paula Lammers is a
performer/educator best known in this area for her long-standing gig
aboard the Minnesota Zephyr in Stillwater. With music degrees from
Gustavos Adolphus and the University of Minnesota, she’s also
worked regularly with the River City Jazz Orchestra (at O’Gara’s)
and has appeared as guest vocalists with several other area big
bands. Classically trained as well, Paula has performed with the
Minnesota Opera chorus in Norma, Magic Flute, Madame Butterfly
and more. Her first recording, Blanket of Blue, was released
last spring, garnering accolades far and wide for her “clarity of
tone” and “seemingly
effortless delivery” (Dan McClenaghan, All About Jazz).
[Click here for a Jazz Police review and interview].
 Rhoda Laurie, photo by Andrea Canter
The Minnesota JZ VOC
Membership in the MN JZVOC is open to
professional singers, clinicians, educators, students, and, at the
affiliate level, anyone with a strong interest in vocal jazz. Members
have opportunities for performance, networking, promotion, mentoring,
etc., all aimed at building a greater presence in the jazz community
for vocal music. Information on the national organization is
available on its website at www.jzvoc.org.
Individuals and organizations interested in the Minnesota Chapter
can contact President Rhonda Laurie at
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The
Minnesota Jazz Vocal Coalition
Showcase performs on Wednesday, May 3rd, at the Dakota
(1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis; www.dakotacooks.com.
Sets begin at 7 pm, $5 cover.
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Twin Cities, MN 
Thursday, 08 January 2009
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