A Conversation with Jazz Vocalist Sara Jones

With this conversation, we are joined by jazz vocalist Sara Jones.  She is the first place winner of the Billie Holiday Vocal Competition and semi-finalist in the American Traditions Competition. She has toured in 49 states, performing in numerous concert halls across the nation. Starting her career as a pianist, she received a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at St. Mary's College of Maryland and a Master of Music in Piano, accompanying at the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music.

With her graduation, she talks about her six years with the Soldiers’ Chorus of the U.S. Army Field Band.  Now maintaining an active performing schedule, she discusses the venues where she performs. She talks about her debut CD, Daydream A Little, published by Petite Musique Records. 

Having also performed as a soloist with the National Symphony Orchestra, Cincinnati Pops Orchestra and Ravinia Festival Orchestra under the batons of Emil de Cou and Erich Kunzel, she spotlights these performances. She also reflects on her soloist perfomances on the Esplanade with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops Orchestra, also her work in the Baltimore/Washington area as featured vocalist with the Jazz Ambassadors. 

A music educator, Sara discusses her professorship at Towson University in Maryland, where she teaches Jazz and Commercial Voice. 

She lists her favorite entertainers and those who have influenced her the most, also highlighting the Great American Songbook and Big Band Era in America. In closing, Sara talks about her favorite songs, along with recommendations for aspiring singers and future projects.