In the Midst of Political Goings-on, an Arts Event

The profile for jazz as a popular art form has shrunken markedly over the past several decades except for the category of female vocalists. The popularity of Diana Krall, Dianne Reeves, Jane Monheit, Wesleyan grad Tierney Sutton and the phenomenal success of Norah Jones (to my ears, more a "pop" singer than jazz chanteuse) has been quite impressive in this digital age.

This Saturday evening at 8 p.m., The Buttonwood Tree presents the Nicole Zuraitis Quartet.  Ms. Zuraitis, (pictured left, taken by Antonio Monteiro), a native of Litchfield, CT., is a fine songwriter, voice teacher, composer and performer (adept in both the jazz and classical realms.)  She's been in the casts of numerous musicals and been involved with social causes. She's got a fine voice, with a wide range and quite emotional. 

Joining her for the Buttonwood gig will be Darren Litzie (piano), Dan Pugach (drums), and Craig Akin (bass.)  Her debut CD was released in 2008 and features the dynamic Curtis Brothers from Hartford, Luques (bass) and Zaccai (piano.)  To find out more and get a good sampling of her music, go to www.nicolezuraitis.com/jazz/. To reserve a seat for the show, call 860-347-4957.