London’s award-winning Jazz songstress Sonja Gustafson is a talented vocalist with a unique style and polish. Her traditional approach reflects an appreciation for the forerunners of vocal jazz, bringing a cool verve to classic and lesser-known standards. Honest and soulful in her delivery and grace, Sonja Gustafson is dazzling whether performing torch ballads, scatting with abandon, or crooning popular covers. Her collaborations with many of London’s top jazz instrumentalists led to the release of her debut CD “Sonja Gustafson” in 2007, as well as a double Christmas CD entitled “Comfort & Joy” released in December 2010. Both albums were well-received and can be heard on CBC radio and found on iTunes, or ordered at www.sonjagustafson.com.
Her audience is often surprised to learn that she is also an accomplished classically trained soprano with a MMus from UWO. She is a popular guest with symphonies, choirs and big bands alike and has been soprano soloist at First St. Andrew’s United Church in London, ON since 1999. Sonja also has her own opera company, Diva Lounge Productions, which produces fully staged chamber operas. But make no mistake, when it comes to jazz, she is the “real deal” according to her listeners and colleagues – her mellow jazz vocals are worlds away from her soprano roots. So whether singing in an intimate jazz club or in front of a symphony, this multi-faceted performer is an engaging songstress who connects deeply with her audience and shares her love of song with passion.
- Sonja Gustafson, Vocals
- Ariel Kasler, Piano and Guitar
- Duncan Hopkins, Bass
- Kevin Dempsey, Drums
This performance is part of the WOMEN IN JAZZ series, sponsored by DIVA INTERNATIONAL, makers of the Diva Cup.
