Performances

Jennifer Parde's music draws from many genres: the warmth and lyricism of folk, the accessibility of pop music, the daring originality of progressive rock. It's most deep influence, however, is that of jazz: it's rhythmic vocabulary, harmonic sophistication and inherent level of musical complexity. Her music tends to be intimate and inviting, with a deeply explorative vein; the musical atmosphere could be compared to such artists as Cassandra Wilson, Bobby McFerrin and Eva Cassidy. Her repertoire focuses on songs with deeply felt lyrics and enchanting melodies, ranging from jazz standards to popular standards, original compositions and lesser-known personal favorites.

Jennifer graduated from Goucher College in 2001, with a dual degree in Music and Psychology. While in school, she made two appearances in the annual East Coast Jazz Festival and qualified as a semifinalist in the 2000 Billie Holiday Vocal Competition. Since graduation, she has pursued studies with WAMMY-winning vocalist Pam Bricker and jazz pianists James Levy and Benito Gonzalez.

Jennifer is an actively performing jazz vocalist and keyboardist in the Baltimore/DC area. In addition to performing at various private functions, she has appeared in such venues as Pisces, Red Maple, and the 13th Floor (in Baltimore); Signatures, Felix, and Utopia (in DC); 49 West (in Annapolis); and La Porta's (in Alexandria). Musicians that she has worked with include James King, Bob Butta, Pam Bricker, Rob Levit, Frank Russo, Benito Gonzalez, and John Turner. She has also improvised to down tempo electronic music, collaborating with DJ Tai of Gourmet Beats.

Her first album, Natural Surreality, is due for release in September 2007, and includes several original compositions, as well as some jazz standards and pop covers.

Jennifer is a versatile performer, comfortable in a variety of musical settings. She works primarily as a vocalist, but is adept at accompanying herself on piano (or keyboards). Performance possibilities include solo work (as a vocalist/pianist), duo work (with guitar, piano, or DJ accompaniment) or larger settings (e.g., performing with a traditional piano or guitar trio).