Northampton Jazz Festival - New York Voices

Celebrating over three decades of musical excellence, award-winning New York Voices has evolved from a college ensemble into one of the world's premier vocal jazz quartets.

"We're like a four-headed old married couple—we're just a big family at this point," reflects Darmon Meader, the group's musical director and tenor.

Their latest release, "Reminiscing in Tempo," (2019) showcases their musical breadth with interpretations spanning Cole Porter to Chick Corea, alongside inventive originals. Working with producer Elliot Scheiner, the album demonstrates their growth from flashy beginnings to mature artistry. "I think we're more comfortable in our own skin now," says baritone Peter Eldridge. "Initially we were out to impress."

The quartet—Meader, Eldridge, and sopranos Lauren Kinhan and Kim Nazarian —functions as "a little big band" with sophisticated vocal arrangements primarily crafted by Meader. This approach has earned them prestigious collaborations with the Count Basie Orchestra, Paquito d'Rivera, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band.