CORAL GABLES — Catherine Russell, the master vocalist kicking off the Community Arts Program’s 2013 Summer Concert Series, was born into musical royalty. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a pioneering pianist, composer, bandleader, and Louis Armstrong’s long-time musical director. Her mother, Carline Ray, has performed with Mary Lou Williams and International Sweethearts of Rhythm.
On Thursday, June 13 at 8 p.m., the singing sensation with the Billie Holiday lyricism and Sarah Vaughan depth appears at the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ, 3010 DeSoto Blvd., Coral Gables, across from the Biltmore Hotel.
Tickets are $30-$45. Call 305-448-7421 ext. 120 or visit info@communityartsprogram.org Native New Yorker Russell’s professional life began early.
After graduating with honors from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, she embarked upon musical adventures with Steely Dan, David Bowie, Cyndi Lauper, Paul Simon, Jackson Browne and Rosanne Cash.
Her 2006 debut album Cat, garnered rave reviews, paving the way for her 2008 sophomore release Sentimental Streak. Russell has been a guest on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, PBS-TV’s Tavis Smiley Show, and NPR’s Fresh Air, Piano Jazz, Mountain Stage, World Café, and JazzSet. She has won a prestigious German Record Critics’ Award and a Living Blues magazine’s critics’ poll.
Her fourth album, Strictly Romancin’ released in February 2012, was awarded Prix du Jazz Vocal 2012 (Vocal Album of the Year) by the Jazz Academy in France. Russell also won a Grammy Award as a featured artist on the soundtrack album for the HBO-TV series, Boardwalk Empire.
Russell’s repertoire features a selection of gems from the 1920s through the present: vital interpretations, bursting with soul and humor. With a sparkling acoustic swing, a stunning vocal approach and accompanied by pianist Mark Shane, Matt Munisteri, guitar and Lee Hudson, bass, Russell brings her audience to the edge of their seats on the way to their feet.
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Catherine Russell
WHEN: Thursday, June 13, 8 p.m.
WHERE: Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ, Coral Gables
COST: Tickets $30-$45
CONTACT: Call 305-448-7421 ext. 120 or visit info@communityartsprogram.org
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