Today was to be a special day. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic caused a change in plans. Close to 400 jazz fans were looking forward to the rare appearance of the multi-talented and award-winning jazz vocalist, Stacey Kent on this Father’s Day.
In what would have been her first-ever concert here in Buffalo at the Nichols Flickinger Performing Arts Center, some fans were prepared to drive 100 miles or more. Kent, who lives in the U.K. with her husband, saxophonist Jim Tomlinson, usually visits the United States a couple of times per year. Thus, making one of her concerts a special treat.
During the pandemic, the universally acclaimed jazz vocalist Stacey Kent has been making a short series of Isolation Videos in a duo format. They are unique in that you can see and hear Kent in a way that reveals her remarkable vocal talent. Kent has become well known for her focus on boss nova and there is no exception in these videos.
While we will miss her in concert today, here are six videos by Stacey Kent and her husband Jim Tomlinson on the guitar that represent the next best thing (video 6 “Landslide feature pianist Art Hirahara) :
It was great to hear you again, Stacey, and I didn’t know that a saxophone/flutist reed guy could also play guitar. Pretty talented person, I guess… both of you, please come back to Minneapolis soon!
LOVELY!! We had tickets to hear you at SPACE in Evanston in June. SOOO bummed out that the pandemic has resulted in cancellation. Saw you two there in the past and absolutely enthralled at your musicianship. We sincerely hope that you will return to the Chicago area when it is safe to do so. Your music provides respite in troubled times. Such a unique and lovely voice. My wife and I have several albums and really enjoy your singing. And Jim… love your sound on tenor. And didn’t realize you play guitar so beautifully as well. 🙂