Performances by the best vocal jazz groups around. Coaching by world-class clinicians. The most promising European newcomers. An electric festival atmosphere with singers and groups from all around the globe attending. The Vocal Jazz Summit 2009 in Mainz offers a glimpse of what today's vocal scene has to offer. It's a feast for all aficionados of a cappella, a must-see for jazz lovers, and a unique opportunity for young groups to learn the tricks of the trade from the masters.
CONCERTS
Oct. 1: The Swingle Singers are delighted to headline this unique festival, launching their new album "Ferris Wheels" in Germany and featuring vocal whiz kid, vice-world champion and long-time Swingle collaboratorRoxorloops as a special guest.
Oct. 3: The Swingles perform as part of "Vocal Jazz Night", sharing the stage with The Real Group, rising stars Witloof Bay, the award-winning Vocado, and many more.
WORKSHOPS
Sept. 29-30: Swingle basses Kevin Fox and Tobias Hug will be joined by Roxorloops and French vocalist Jerome Colloud as they present "Beatbox & Beyond", a 3-day intensive vocal percussion and improvisation clinic.
Oct. 1-3: Ensembles have the opportunity to be coached by members of the Swingle Singers, The Manhattan Transfer, The Real Group, and Danish jazz ensemble Touché conducted by Jesper Holm.Loop Songs: Bertrand Groeger, conductor of one of Germany's foremost Jazz vocal ensembles "Jazzchor Freiburg", will give a workshop on vocal and choir warm-ups, drawing from his new book of exercises entitled "Loop Songs". (The accompanying audio CD was recorded by the Swingles!)
GUEST OF HONOUR
This year's guest of honour will be none other than Ward Swingle!
Seriously... If you're a singer or group, what more incentive do you need to spend a week in Mainz?See you there.www.vocal-jazz-summit.com