Ella Fitzgerald is one of the most lasting and recognized figures in Jazz.  Virginia Commission for the Arts recipient (2010-2017), L’Tanya Mari and her sextet have  honored this ideal, in a centennial celebration of Ella Fitzgerald’s 100th birthday, and the popular tunes she made famous, continuing her legacy in a celebratory program that honors the illuminate and recognizable icon, but also introduces Mari to new listeners eloquently covering one of the most lauded vocalists in jazz. 

 

Mari is uniquely qualified to present this program, as a chart-topping artist. A Teardrop Of Sun catapulted Mari’s career, garnering airplay across the US and Canada with a chart status of #30 on the American Jazz Charts. Mari has continued to delight audiences with appearances that range from The Smithsonian American Art Museum to the 21st Annual African-American Heritage Festival, to the International Women in Jazz, and other Mid-Atlantic region venues. 

 

Her resume additionally includes grants from the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities during (2008-10). She was a finalist in the Billie Holiday Competitions of (2009-11). In 2010, Mari was nominated in four categories by the Washington Area Music Association: for Jazz Vocalist, Jazz Recording, New Artist of the Year and Debut Recording for A Tear Drop Of Sun.  The program not only celebrates a cherished American icon, it also connects the next generation of listeners to a uniquely cherished genre of American music. Talk about the perks!