PAULA LAMMERS AND CLOUD NINE

Words are the unique domain of the vocalist in the world of music. Paula Lammers has made it her artistic mission to use the lyrics she sings to paint pictures with words. She chooses songs with lyrics rich in visual imagery, weaving a word-tapestry with the arrangements she creates. Paula draws upon a variety of literature from many genres to create jazz-based interpretations of her songs. Her newest album, Deep Purple Dreams (scheduled for release May 22, 2011), draws its material from folk, pop, cabaret, and newer musical theater songs, anchored by a selection of some of her favorite standards. Paula's recordings and performances have earned her praise for her beautiful clear tone, her presentation of interesting music and arrangements, and superb vocal technique.

Lammers started out as a vocal music major at Gustavus Adolphus College. She continued her studies at the University of Minnesota, earning a Master of Music in Vocal Performance. While her training was largely classical, an opera improvisation class she took while working on her master's degree highlighted her innate ability to hear chord progressions and opened up the idea that she could improvise - and that she enjoyed it. Her interest in jazz and big band music blossomed and she began to sing with local big bands, eventually forming her own 9-piece group, Paula Lammers and Cloud Nine, where she serves as the bandleader.

In addition to performing, Lammers is an active voice educator, conducting vocal workshops and maintaining a busy teaching schedule at local high schools and colleges.

Listen to Paula Lammers sing Isn't it Romantic?

Cloud Nine is a little big band that generates a powerful sound. The custom arrangements that it plays are built around Lammers' sultry, sexy voice.

What sets this band apart from others is its unique spin on the classic, mainstream jazz standards, and an occasional adventure into avant garde jazz. The arrangements are fresh and hip and are anything but predictable.

This band is equally suited to playing clubs, parties, concerts, or dances.

Whether you are a jazz purist, or a mainstream listener waiting to be entertained, you will not be disappointed. Cloud Nine: the highest clouds in the sky..

The 75-minute concert is set for Saturday, May 7 at 7 pm in the Ministry Center of St. Barnabas Lutheran Church, 15600 Old Rockford Road, Plymouth. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for students. A reception with refreshments will be held after the performance. For more information contact St. Barnabas Center for the Arts, (763) 553-3083.

This activity is made possible, in part, by funds provided by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council through a grant from the McKnight Foundation and an appropriation by the Minnesota Legislature.

St. Barnabas Center for the Arts is a program of St. Barnabas Lutheran Church supporting the arts through education, nurturing and sharing of creative works.

For more information call SBCA Director Jeff Whitmill at (763) 553-3083 or e-mail him.