A lifelong singer and world traveler, I launched my professional career in St. Petersburg, Russia in 2000 when I began performing with the legendary Leningrad Dixieland Jazz Band--a group of grizzled jazz veterans who gave me a crash course in intonation, phrasing, swing, and stage performance. Later, as vocalist and songwriter for St. Petersburg Ska-Jazz Review and the retro-soul band J.D. and the Blenders, I toured Russia, Scandinavia, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, recorded three full-length albums, and appeared on Russian and international television and radio. After returning to the States in 2008 to complete my M.A. in Journalism at Syracuse University, I moved to Boulder, Colorado in 2009 for the welcome change of scenery (and skiing). I'm also a freelance journalist and Russian interpreter.
Janet Streater - Piano
Growing up in the Chicago area, jazz was a strong presence in my musical family. I have played professionally everywhere that I have lived, from Boulder, Colorado, to Den Haag, where I was the pianist at Hotel Corona, a five star restaurant owned by Joseph Heinekens of beer fame. More recently, I was the pianist for 11 years at The Cafe, an upscale restaurant in Pennsylvania. I also play for weddings, receptions, private parties, and art galleries. I specialize in solo piano and jazz accompaniment for singers. My influences include straight jazz, Broadway, blues, and swing.