Stephanie Nakasian “The Renaissance Woman of Jazz”

Stephanie Nakasian is an exciting, well‐seasoned vocalist and master of innovative jazz improvisation, completely authentic with a fresh and vibrant sound all her own. Bringing high energy to every perfor‐ mance, Stephanie enthralls listeners with her pure tones and a flawless delivery, engaging them on a per‐ sonal level with a love for the music that is playful, electric and spontaneous in story and song.

Then & Now: Stephanie came to international attention in the mid‐80s when she sang and toured with the vocal jazz master Jon Hendricks and Company – what she considers her “vocal jazz apprenticeship.” She continues to tour and record as a vocal leader with her partner and internationally acclaimed jazz pia‐ nists Hod O’Brien or improvisational master, Harris Simon.

Recordings: With 26 recording projects, Stephanie continues to be an active recording artist. Her debut CD “Comin’Alive” (V.S.O.P.) featuring legendary saxophonist Phil Woods received four stars from critic Leonard Feather. “French Cookin’” (V.S.O.P.) spotlights the beautiful combination of Stephanie’s voice with virtuoso French hornist Bobby Routch. Her “Bitter Sweet” CD (JazzMania) is highly lauded along with “Escapade” as she takes the audience on a fantasy swing voyage and her “Lullaby in Rhythm” in tribute to Kenton singer June Christy featuring saxophonist Harry Allen. In 2006 two CDs were released: “Thrush Hour” (VSOP), a tribute to 20 great jazz singers including a 20 page booklet co‐authored by Scott Yanow with pictures, bios and educational tips as to how to listen to each singer to hear the nuances of style and

phrasing and “I Love You” (Spice of Life) was released in Japan to rave reviews including a full article in

“Swing Journal” in which they called Stephanie “the perfect jazz singer.”