2012 Kinser Jazz Festival welcomes New York Voices
Tuesday, February 7th at 7:00 P.M. at NCHS

Celebrating their 20th Anniversary in 2009, New York Voices is the Grammy Award winning vocal ensemble renowned for their excellence in jazz and the art of group singing. Like the great groups that have come before, such as Lambert, Hendricks and Ross, Singers Unlimited, and Manhattan Transfer, they have learned from the best and taken the art form to new levels. Their interests are rooted in jazz, but often Brazilian, R and B, classical, and pop influences are infused with equal creativity and authenticity.

The group was formed in 1987 by Darmon Meader, Peter Eldridge, Kim Nazarian, Caprice Fox and Sara Krieger. By way of explanation, Darmon, Peter, Kim and Caprice attended Ithaca College in NY and were part of an invitational alumni group formed to tour the European Jazz Festivals in the summer of '86. As a result of this exciting experience, the idea of forming a professional group was born. In 1989 they would sign their first record deal with GRP Records and release their self titled debut album, New York Voices. The group received rave notices and quickly received domestic and international recognition in the Jazz World. From '89 to '94, they released four total CDs on the GRP Label, Hearts of Fire, What's Inside, and The Collection.

While recording for GRP, they underwent personnel changes. In 1992, Sara Krieger retired her chair, and after auditioning over 60 vocalists from all over the U.S., the group found Lauren Kinhan. There was an immediate chemistry in fit and sound, allowing the group to make a quick transition and become the "new" New York Voices. Lauren's first musical contributions can be heard on NYV's third CD, What's Inside, released in May of 1993. In early 1994, Caprice Fox left the group, forever fixing NYV as the quartet it is today.

Besides their own CDs, NYV has made many guest appearances on recordings and live performances that have earned them critical acclaim and demand in a variety of musical settings. You can find their performances on such CDs as the Grammy Award winning, Count Basie Orchestra with New York Voices, Live at Manchester Craftsmen's Guild (MCG Records), the Latin Grammy Award winning, Brazilian Dreams with the great Paqito D'Rivera, the contemporary classical, The Ancient Tower (Robert Lepley - EarthBeat Records), Heirs to Jobim (BMG Records), Don Sebesky's, I Remember Bill (BMG), Jim Hall's, By Arrangement (Telarc), A Love Affair - the Music of Ivan Lins (TELARC), Irving Berlin's, Louisiana Purchase (DRG), and many more. They have had the pleasure of performing with a number of influential jazz artists including Ray Brown, Bobby McFerrin, Nancy Wilson, The Count Basie Orchestra, George Benson, Jon Hendricks, Annie Ross, the Boston Pops, The Metropole Orchestra, Ivan Lins, Paquito D'Rivera, and many more.

In early 1997 they traveled down a different road, paying tribute to a contemporary composer which produced, New York Voices Sing the Songs of Paul Simon. They explored and used a variety of styles to express new turns on this singer/songwriter's rich songbook. Says All Music Guide, "The arrangements are brighter and brassier than Simon's originals, but there's a real charm to the performances that makes it a thoroughly entertaining experience."

In 2001, New York Voices released their sixth CD entitled Sing, Sing, Sing. After many years of performing with the Count Basie Orchestra, the group wanted to address the great Big Band song book and offer their own spin. With Darmon doing the lion's share of the vocal and big band arrangements, they hired the producing talents of Elliot Scheiner (Manhattan Transfer, Steely Dan, Fleetwood Mac) to capture the music and mix it with his exquisite precision and care. Other guest big band arrangers are the great Micheal Abene and Rob Mounsey. As reviewed by Don Heckman of the LA times, "The title track quickly lays down what to expect from the balance of the program: complex, interwoven vocal lines, interactive improvising and brisk ensemble accompaniment. And revivalist swing fans - both players and listeners - would do well to check out the Voices' capacity to bring a contemporary quality to classic material without sacrificing the essence of either."

In recent years, they have been called upon by the Boston Pops to bring a new edge to the Pops Orchestra circuit. They have a full program of Big Band arrangements which they have toured with the Boston Pops and many other prominent Orchestras all over the United States. Says Jannelle Gelfand of The Cincinnati Enquirer, "The group's incomparable blend, hip delivery and great arrangements resulted in one swinging party. Their four-part harmonizing was so close, it was hard to tell where one voice ended and another began." They also have a program of music from the Baby Boomer period. In this program, you'll likely hear music from the Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, the Mammas and the Papas and the Carpenters, to name a few.

In 2005 they created a spectacular Christmas program with the Boston Pops and did an extensive tour throughout the U.S. The Boston Pops continues to call on New York Voices for new works and guest appearances. 2007 marks the release of their 7th studio CD, A Day Like This. They went back to their tradition of mixing things up; Brazilian influences, swinging trio numbers and a couple Big Band romps. They also included a handful of original songs from the members, a particular strong suit for this multi-talented ensemble. Says All About Jazz LA, "a sumptuous collection of vocal harmonic heaven-the vocals are a Whitman's Sampler of various flavors and tastes, richer than a dark chocolate bon bon."

NYV has traveled the globe with their elegant music, amazing audiences the world over with their impeccable voices and stunning arrangements. "Live, they're just as impressive to witness," says Mathew Lurrie of Time Out Chicago. "We dare say there may be no better way to understand the wit and wink of jazz harmony than via these Voices." They have appeared on the stages of Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, The Blue Note (Japan, NYC), The Austria Opera House, The Zurich Opera House, and the list goes on. They have been seen at the many jazz festivals including the North Sea Jazz Festival, The Montreal Jazz Festival, and the New Orleans Jazz and Blues Heritage Festival.

Along with their extensive concert performances and recording dates, NYV also works in the field of education, giving workshops and clinics to high school and college music students. They debuted the first annual New York Voices Vocal Jazz Camp in the summer of 2009, partnering with Bowling Green State University in Ohio. The camp was attended by people from 8 countries around the globe and ages ranging from 13 to well into their 50's. The four singers each direct their own choir, while offering a wide array of classes during the 6 day intensive. To find out more about the camp, visit BGSUJazz.com.

Individually, the four members are involved in a variety of projects including solo performances, recordings, teaching, writing and arranging. To learn more about them visit their bio pages at NYV.com and their websites Kim, Darmon, Peter and Lauren.

2012 Kinser Jazz Festival
New York Voices Selected Reviews

New York Voices with the BBC Big Band:
"Having been a contributor of this wonderful world of show-business for some considerable time (or so the rumours would have it!), I am increasingly economical with certain words of description. Words like 'sensational' and 'fantastic' and 'unbelievable' top the list of those to be avoided until -- that is -- this evening, after listening to, and being blown away by, the distinctive sound and superb contemporary vocalisation of a two-boy, two-girl vocal ensemble with the simple and easily remembered name -- 'New York Voices'. With great backing from the BBC Big Band, they produced two 30 minute sets that were simply breathtaking in the extreme, lifting the audience, including many hardened musical 'pro's' to moments of rapture and to their feet in unabashed acclaim.

"That they brought shades of harmonies reminiscent of the Hi Lo's, The Four Freshmen and, particularly, Singers Unlimited and Manhattan Transfer to their performance was purely coincidental for this sensational quartet are unique both in style and musical presentation. Their phrasing is a joy to the ear, their timing exquisite and their arrangements are to die for. They are, unquestionably, the vocal giants of jazz and superb singers of swing, much deserving their world wide recognition. They 'scat' in four part harmony and transcend from the crazy triple time lyrics of 'Cloudburst' to the more gentle, refined notes of romantic ballads, like 'I Can't believe You're in Love with Me'. Their a cappella arrangement of 'I'll Be Seeing You' proved a thing of elegant beauty and affirmation of the genius that underlines their work. Sadly, and unbelievably, although feted throughout the western world and particularly, in the USA, they are mainly ignored in Great Britain. The four -- Peter Eldridge, Darmon Meader (a superb saxophonist), Lauren Kinhan, and Kim Nazarian -- are worthy of the Albert Hall, The Palladium and all the great concert halls in the UK. They deserve to be showcased both live and on national TV in order that every jazz and swing fan can marvel at their masterful interpretations. Will someone please do something about this dreadful oversight?"

New York Voices - Sing The Songs of Paul Simon:
"New York Voices pull out a project so inspired it makes one wonder why no one has thought of doing jazz vocal renditions of Simon's most memorable tunes before..."
Billboard Magazine

"...full of life, teeming with energy and bursting with melody. The arrangements are brighter and brassier than Simon's originals, but there's a real charm to the performances that makes it a thoroughly entertaining experience..."
All Music Guide

New York Voices - Live Performance:
"How Voices squash their previously five-part formulas into four-parts is one of the new great wonders of the world. If there is anything wrong with their presentation, it's that its sizzling pace leaves listeners breathless and not quite sure how to assimilate what it is they've heard. Voices takes disciplined uninhibited singing to a new higher level of disjointed unity..."
Reno Gazette Journal

"The jazz vocal quartet paid tribute to the giants of their tradition -- while standing pretty tall on its own..."
The Indianapolis Star

"New York Voices lives up to its reputation as the most exciting vocal ensemble in current jazz, to collect such quality voices in one group is rare enough, yet the real trick of New York Voices is how well they mesh..."
Boston Herald

"Meticulous, polished and dead serious in their pursuit of vocal excellence, the Voices manage to maintain a genuine playful approach that makes it all look a little too easy. Their stage manner somehow shrinks even the largest venues into intimate cafes where each patron feels personally entertained..."
Manchester Craftmen's Guild

PETER ELDRIDGE - New York Voices

Besides his ongoing endeavors and engagements as a New York Voice, Peter continues to lead the eclectic life of a solo artist; mixing together all aspects of performing, recording, composing, producing and teaching. He now has two solo CDs out in the universe -- the compelling 'Fool No More', full of his evocative melodies and stirring lyrics. Allmusic.com said of the recording, 'Eldridge belongs in the celebrated tradition of melodic poets, most famously represented by such disparate voices as Stevie Wonder, Joni Mitchell and Van Morrison -- beautiful tunes with insightful lyrics that are both universal and personal'. 'Fool No More' was co-produced by Peter and the fiercely talented Ben Wittman.

Peter's other release is the melancholy, yet swinging, 'Stranger in Town', made up of some of Peter's favorite standards (and one original). He produced the project, bringing together such jazz luminaries as Michael Brecker, Claudio Roditi, Lewis Nash, and Romero Lubambo. WICN-FM in Boston awarded the recording the best jazz album of 2001.

For more information on these recordings and their availability go to Peter's website at www.petereldridge.com. These CDs, as well as NYV pianist Andy Ezrin's first trio recording 'Tactile' (which Peter also produced) are on the independent label Rosebud Music.

Peter has been performing regularly as a soloist, playing and singing at venues in Minneapolis, Chicago, Boston and of course his hometown, New York City. This November, after finishing a month in Europe with NYV, Peter will be staying on to make his European debut as a soloist. Check out Peter's website for his touring schedule.

An in demand teacher as well, Peter continues to be part of the jazz voice faculty at the Manhattan School of Music. In addition, he travels near and far conducting master classes and workshops. One of his many talented students is Jane Monheit, who Peter often performs with when their schedules permit. His list of activities in the near future include projects with Ivan Lins, Bobby McFerrin, and Broadway diva Betty Buckley.

KIM NAZARIAN - New York Voices

A native "up-state" New Yorker and Magna Cum Laude graduate of Ithaca College, Kim is a founding member of the Grammy award-winning group New York Voices, formed in 1987. She has recorded numerous CD's and toured the world with this outstanding vocal quartet. For their most recent project, the group took on the role of featured artist with Paquito D'Rivera on his latest release for the MCG Jazz label; "Brazilian Dreams".

In Japan, Kim has a solo CD on the JVC label entitled "Red Dragonfly In New York". This educational project is a collection of Japanese folk songs that have been translated into English and arranged in "western" musical settings. Ms. Nazarian is also a featured artist on a number of other CD's released on the MCG Jazz label, including "Afternoon In Rio" with Joe Negri, "The 21st Century Swing Band", and the highly acclaimed "A Nancy Wilson Christmas". Please go to mcgjazz.org for details. Always attracted to the "Latin Scene", Kim has performed and recorded with the Boston based band "El Eco". Particularly exciting for Kim is the recent opportunity to work on Bobby McFerrin's upcoming recording project.

After having a son of her own, Kim is even more dedicated to the quality of music for children and music education. Inspired by "Long Ago And Far Away", her original, interactive children's concert, Kim has co-produced a radio show for youngsters under the same title. Also, currently in the creative development stage, is an interdisciplinary TV Series/CD-Rom for children.

Additionally, soon to be completed are Kim's educational book and video/DVD covering her critically acclaimed approach to vocal technique and musical sensibilities for singers. Kim also disseminates her highly sought after perspectives through the teaching of private students, clinics, workshops, master classes, festival adjudication and guest conducting for all levels from grade school to graduate school.

In New York, Kim continues not only her private studio, but also her active involvement in the "studio scene" where her credits include numerous jingles and major motion picture scores. After establishing her "dual residency" in Pittsburgh, PA, Kim was a featured vocalist along with Ray Brown and Stanley Turrentine in the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre production, "Indigo In Motion". Kim truly enjoys being a wife and mom, whether at home or on the road.

DARMON MEADER - New York Voices

Recognized in both the jazz vocal and instrumental world, Darmon is considered one of the premier vocalists, arrangers and saxophonists in jazz today. Darmon has achieved rapid international recognition as the founder, musical director, chief arranger, composer, producer, saxophonist, and vocalist with New York Voices. As a member of New York Voices, he has released four albums on the GRP Records label.

In addition to Darmon's continuing New York Voices touring and recording commitments, he is increasingly busy as a sideman, university clinician, and studio musician. When not involved with music, Darmon likes to "escape" from New York through a variety of outdoor activities including biking, skiing, camping and kayaking!

LAUREN KINHAN - New York Voices

Marking her fifteenth year as a member of the New York Voices, Lauren is no longer the new girl, but a rock and mortar member! Always a primary focus in her career, she has contributed original songs to the NYV repertoire and continues to do so on their latest outing, A Day Like This, released in August of 2007.

In 1999 Lauren recorded her debut solo project, Hardly Blinking, an eclectic set of original songs. They are lush with story, built on a musical palate ranging from earthy acoustic settings to cleverly layered productions. Produced by three musical powerhouses, Phil Ramone (Billy Joel, Phoebe Snow), Frank Filipetti (James Taylor), and Rob Mounsey (Steely Dan, Paul Simon) it was an opportunity for Lauren to stretch her wings in a genre that is as interesting to her as the jazz artform. Phil Ramone describes Lauren as a true songstress, like Joni Mitchell and Pheobe Snow: "She is musical, lyrical and really delivers vocally. I am a devoted fan of Lauren Kinhan." You can purchase Hardly Blinking on Lauren's bio page.

She has completed production on her follow up CD to Hardly Blinking with the release planned for the June of 2008. It is another all original songbook from Lauren showcasing her deep appreciation for melody driven music interpreted in many genres and her delicate attention to the prose. The command of her voice fully delivers the whole package. She shares the production with the multi-talented Ben Wittman (Produced Jonatha Brooke, Patty Larkin, Lucy Kaplansky, Peter Eldridge) who played drums, added arranging layers and mixed the project with seemless expertise and precision.

In 2005 she joined musical forces with four stunning solo artists creating Moss; Luciana Souza (Brazilian singer and composer and 3 x Grammy Nominee), Theo Bleckmann (Incredibly inventive singer, improsationalist and sound scape artist), Kate McGarry (Soulful Jazz vocalist and composer) and Peter Eldridge (of NYV fame and composer extraordinaire). They combine their unique talents in fresh musical settings, pushing beyond their comfort zones and create new music for the vocal group genre. Moss has completed their Debut CD, also entitled Moss, and will release it in April of 2008 on the Sunnyside Label. For more information, go to www.MossProduced.org Lauren has had the privilege of being involved in the grass roots development of Bobby McFerrin's choral project; a collection of his original songs set for multiple voices. Watch and wait for a release date.

While in stark contrast, Lauren appeared on the critically acclaimed CD by Ornette Coleman, "Sound Museum, Three Woman." It was voted Down Beat's 1997 "Jazz Record of the Year." Ornette's original, "Don't You Know By Now," showcases her expressive voice and fearless abandon. She toured for a brief time with Ornette in 1997/8, culminating with her participation and presentation of her own original song, "My Beating Heart," in his retrospective, "Celebration," at Avery Fisher Hall.

In 2000 Lauren collaborated with Japanese guitarist, Jiro Yoshida, on a collection of jazz standards entitled, "Guitar and the Moon." The rhythm section was made up of the legendary,Eddie Gomez on bass, and members of NYV's rhythm section, Andy Ezrin on piano and Ben Wittman on drums.

The Song Writer's Hall of Fame and SESAC awarded Lauren the 1997 Abe Oleman Scholarship for song writing excellence. She is a graduate of Berklee College of Music.