Maureen Washington and her band of merry men will be in Parksville for a jazzy Christmas concert on Dec. 20.
The Victoria-based singer, known for her powerful voice, will be at Knox United Church (345 Pym St.) along with band mates Karel Roessingh (piano), Joey Smith (bass) and Damian Graham (drums).
Washington's vocal talent lends itself to performances of blues, swing jazz and funk, and her repertoire ranges from familiar classics to originals.
She loves Christmas tunes, with a special affinity for the music of Vince Guaraldi, well known for Peanuts classics like 'Christmas Time is Here' and 'Linus and Lucy'.
Music has always been a part of her life. Washington would hum melodies before she could talk, she was told by her mother growing up.
She discovered a love for jazz music while singing in local restaurants in her hometown of Prince George, and later fronted a jazz funk band, before moving to Victoria to pursue her dream of becoming a performer.
Washington has played at venues around B.C., including the Victoria International Jazz Festival, the Vancouver Island Blues Bash and the Prince George Cold Snap Music Festival.
An accomplished jazz and blues vocalist, songwriter and instructor, she has released nine albums, most recently Harvest Moon.
Washington has shared the stage with big names like Bruce Cockburn, Janis Ian, Martyn Joseph, and twice hosted festival clinics with Florida’s Lee Boys and Ruthie Foster and Canadian indie rock singer and guitarist Amy Millan.
She has also been recognized with awards including the Black Canadian Award’s ‘Best Jazz and Soul Artist’ and Monday Magazine’s ‘Jazz and Blues Artist of the Year’.
The concert starts at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are $30 and are available online at Eventbrite and with cash at Parksville retailers Close to You Boutique and Fireside Books, and Edge Outdoors in Qualicum Beach.
