January 14: Virginia Arts Festival Presents Jazz Vocalist Carmen Bradford This Saturday at Attucks

NORFOLK
Virginia Arts Festival continues to give Hampton Roads jazz fans reason to celebrate. Vocalist Carmen Bradford performs on Saturday, January 14, as part of the Attucks Jazz Series, in the intimate club setting of the Attucks Theatre.

Born in Austin, Texas and raised in Altadena, California, Carmen Bradford grew up with music in her home and in her heart. It was only natural that Carmen would follow in the footsteps of her great family legacy, being the daughter of legendary trumpeter/ composer Bobby Bradford and world renowned vocalist/composer Melba Joyce. Her grandfather Melvin Moore sang with Lucky Millender and Dizzy Gillespie’s Big Band in the 1940s, and sang with the Ink Spots, making Carmen the third generation of incredible musicians. She has carved out a place in music history for herself and is playing an integral role in this uniquely American art form called jazz. Carmen Bradford is Jazz Royalty.

At present, Carmen Bradford is doing it all whether it’s a duo concert with Shelly Berg, Big Band with the ladies of DIVA, or her new favorite performing with Symphony Orchestras around the world. Carmen Bradford’s body of work reflects a vast depth of musical experience and technical brilliance. She is also recognized for the overwhelming passion she brings to the lyric. She has truly contributed to the perpetuation and preservation of this Great American art form called jazz, and continues to do so.

The Attucks Jazz Series – co-produced by Norfolk’s SevenVenues – is being directed once again by jazz pianist John Toomey. His trio will accompany each guest artist.

Tickets for each show are on sale for $20. For information and to purchase tickets, call Virginia Arts Festival box office, (757) 282-2822 or visit www.vafest.org.