On this episode of the New York Jazz Workshop Podcast the topic is women in jazz. Who are some women in jazz? Today more than ever, women in jazz have integrated into the traditionally male dominated form on equal footing more than more so than ever before. In this episode I discuss some of the contributions of women in the music such as Tia Fuller, the late Geri Allen, organist Shirley Scott, Jazzmeia Horn, and often forgotten pioneers such as alto saxophonist and singer Vi Redd, and trumpeter Clora Bryant. Numerous women who have made gigantic contributions to this art form have been pianist Mary Lou Williams, Carla Bley, Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn. Absolute titans like drummers Sherri Maricle, Teri Lyne Carrington, Kim Thompson, Hiromi and Cindy Blackman Santana are always present on the scene and providing inspiration for countless young women. Back in the twenties there were artists like drummer Viola Smith who paved the way, and the strides she, Redd, and Bryant made are felt to the present. Today, Thana Alexa and Grace Kelly bring new audiences to jazz and bring something unique and fresh to the table, while local musicians such as Florida organist Jocelyn Michelle keep the flames burning brightly.
To learn more about women in jazz music, musicians and singers of all ages can partake in classes
with world class faculty including Olivia Foschi, Jocelyn Medina, Amina Figarova and Fay Victor.