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 This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

The Minnesota Jazz Vocal Coalition Showcase performs on Wednesday, May 3^rd, at the Dakota (1010 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis; www.dakotacooks.com. Sets begin at 7 pm, $5 cover.