Haitian-American singer/composer/arranger Pauline Jean is a multicultural artist whose repertoire incorporates rhythms of the African Diaspora with elements of jazz, world and western contemporary styles. Pauline sings in English, French and Creole, and offers her distinct approach to every song. She is a dynamic component of the new Haitian Jazz movement in New York, which is now reaching an ever-growing worldwide audience.
Pauline has been favorably compared to well-known vocalists, but through her confident ability has developed her own voice. “She invokes hornlike sounds, with shades of tones and phrasings that go well beyond just singing the lyrics” (All About Jazz). She also has developed popular tribute programs involving great women in the jazz/world genres. She is especially met with enthusiastic applause when she offers her heartfelt and thoughtful performances honoring Nina Simone and Toto Bissainthe. Her concerts, versatility and well-conceived debut recording are very impressive and stay with the listener.
Pauline has successfully proven her abilities as a performer and bandleader. She has traveled to Russia, Lebanon, Switzerland, Finland, United Kingdom, Haiti, Dominican Republic, and Nevis Island. Between international and local engagements, Pauline has performed at the Blue Note, the Iridium and at Lincoln Center in New York, among other venues.
In early January of 2011, Pauline participated in the momentous “Sa’k Pase Ayiti” recording project by joining various prominent Haitian artists to commemorate the first anniversary of Haiti’s catastrophic earthquake. She was also invited to perform at the 5th Edition of the Festival International de Port-au-Prince in Haiti where she received great praise for her workshop and her soul stirring performances. The Haitian press described Pauline as “a black diamond with a magnificent voice.”
Pauline recently toured Russia, where she was the first vocalist/arranger to perform Afro Haitian Jazz. The Russian press wrote, “When Pauline appeared on stage, the energy was just an extraordinary force. Owner of incredible voice… it was she who showed a new approach to classic jazz, by adding elements of Afro-Haitian music” (Vedom News). Pauline is scheduled to return to Moscowin March 2012 to perform at the Tchaikovsky Concert Hall.
Pauline holds a BM in jazz vocal performance from the Berklee College of Music.
Her debut CD “A Musical Offering” was released in 2009 to great acclaim. She is currently preparing for her second recording that will introduce interesting arrangements and new compositions.
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