The CNY Jazz Arts Foundation is thrilled to announce the first appearance in Central New York by jazz and blues vocalist Antoinette Montague, who will be performing at the annual Black History Month Cabaret. She will be performing songs just released on her CD, Behind The Smile, which features love songs, gritty blues and gems from the Great American Songbook. This unique event makes Sunday, February 14th a celebration not only of Black History Month but Valentine’s Day as well.
Born and raised in Newark, New Jersey, Antoinette Montague released her first CD Pretty Blues in 2006, before which she has had many invaluable musical experiences. She worked in gospel and R&B ensembles after college, serves as the vice president of the International Women in Jazz, and considers Carrie Smith, Etta Jones, Della Griffin and Myrna Lake to be her mentors.
According to Scott Yanow, writing for the Los Angeles Jazz Scene, “She has a powerful voice, the ability to hold long notes without wavering, and a knack for making every song sound bluesy.
Antoinette Montague’s delivery is heartfelt, infectious and memorable.” She is a regular on the New York scene, in clubs like Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola, Harlem’s Lenox Lounge, the Blue Note and the Harlem Jazzmobile tour. “Those unfamiliar with Antoinette just have to think Etta Jones, only sassier. She wraps herself around an Ellington or Jerome Kern evergreen just as tightly as she can belt out “I’ve Got a Fine Brown Frame” or “I’d Rather Drink Muddy Water.” This is versatility in the extreme, power and elegance in one package. We’re lucky to have her fit us into her schedule and excited to introduce her to Syracuse audiences.”
This unique annual event is again sponsored by Brackens Financial Solutions Network, Vicki Brackens, ChFC. “With over 20 years of commitment to the community,” said Brackens, “our firm is dedicated to financially empowering all segments of our community: artistic, business, and philanthropic. We’re delighted to be able to share our mission with the CNY Jazz Arts Foundation.” Media sponsors are WAER FM-88 and Syrasoul.com.
Reservations are strongly recommended in order to secure best seating. For tickets, call 479-5299.
Black History Month Cabaret
featuring
Antoinette Montague
Persian Terrace, Hotel Syracuse
500 S. Warren St.
Sunday Feb. 14
4 pm doors
5 pm music
6 pm SHOWTIME
$25/$20 subscribers and donors/$12 students
Raffles and door prizes
Gourmet food stations will be available at extra charge
Cash bar
For complete information on all events and activities, visit www.cnyjazz.org or call 479-5299.
About CNY Jazz Arts Foundation:
The CNY Jazz Arts Foundation is the primary provider of jazz programming in concert, cabaret and scholastic settings for the extended Central New York region, presenting over 150 events in public, in schools and at Jazz Central, the country’s second jazz arts and education center.
