Laura
Stilwell
- WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Tommy James was amazing! There is nothing like working with musicians of such a high caliber. This workshop gave me a new confidence which continues to grow. A truly transformational experience!”
—Lura Griffiths
Workshops & Classes
Join Laura for fun, productive classes, workshops & jams in both voice and dance. Learn new techniques or simply test out your material in a supportive circle of fellow performers. Keep your skills fine-tuned and up-to-date. Browse the offerings below. Use the contact form for any inquiries. Class sizes are limited.
Vocal Jazz Workshop & Showcase
with Tommy James
This is a RARE opportunity for both professional and aspiring jazz vocalists to be coached by Tommy James—former Musical Director/Arranger and pianist for The Duke Ellington Orchestra. Tommy James has performed and/or recorded with Jazz vocal greats: Cleo Laine, Betty Carter, Eartha Kitt, Norah Jones, Melba Moore, Joe Williams, Macy Gray, and many others.
The Tommy James Jazz Vocal Workshop will encompass all aspects of vocal performance including phrasing, tempos, basic theory, improvisation, repertoire development, how to explain what you need so you can get what you want, stage presence, how to create an interesting set list, and everything you need to know about performing at a gig. During the workshop, singers will have an opportunity to sing with The Tommy James Trio. Each student will work on one up tempo Swing tune and one ballad (or Blues, Bossa Nova, etc.). Vocalists will have the opportunity to perform in the Vocal Showcase with the Tommy James Trio, and the showcase will be videotaped. Meet other vocalists, and explore and develop your creativity! Feel free to contact Laura Stilwell and get more information regarding the Tommy James Jazz Vocal Workshop.
“Tommy James’ performance at the workshop concert, his sincerity in which he supported the singers, and his clarity in which he interacted with other musicians was wonderful to behold. What a talent! I learned more than I had anticipated, and I really enjoyed the experience overall. Many thanks for a job well done, from start to finish!” —Carolyn Joyce
“Thanks to Tommy James for his hard work, generous spirit, creative thinking and impeccable taste! The jazz vocal workshop was a fabulous success! They’ll be lining up around the corner for the next one!” —Barbara Slader
“Studying with Tommy James was magical! He is such a wealth of knowledge, and he is so generous and supportive. Thank you Laura for your incredible workshop coordination talents! I want to be in the next class!” —Tammi Taylor
“Thanks so much for creating such a wonderful musical week with Tommy James!” —Johanna Courtleigh
GET AN INVITE TO THE NEXT VOCAL JAZZ WORKSHOP BY JOINING LAURA’S EMAIL LIST BELOW.