leah suárez news

Up Jumped Spring

2010-04-04T12:18:00.003-04:00

Yes, indeed. It is spring and the weather is gorgeous! Now, if only I could actually pry myself away from work to get outside and enjoy the weather! It's an insanely busy time of year, but I am not sure when I can say that it isn't a busy time of year. Always busy...bzzzz. There's a lot coming up in the coming months. I am especially honored to be a part of so many benefits, supporting beautiful causes - so necessary to the community. I hope that you'll make a choice to come out and support these organizations. I'll be sending a newsletter soon with many more details. In the meantime, check out my SCHEDULE and I'll look forward to seeing you out and about soon! Enjoy the light of spring!

it might as well be spring!

2010-02-25T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends!

Hope you all have had a beautiful start to the year. It's hard to believe that it's nearing March. WHAT?! It's harder to believe that we had snow - actual SNOW - in Charleston, two weeks ago. I suppose every decade or so isn't too bad. I am looking forward to what has already been a super busy start to SPRING! I'm restless, giddy, starry-eyed and perhaps even a bit vaguely discontented, definitely spinning daydreams...it might as well be spring!

Ella Fitzgerald singing Rodgers & Hammerstein's
"It Might As Well Be Spring"
www.youtube.com/watch

Hope to see you soon!
Paz y Amor,
Peace and Love,
Leah

TONIGHT @ PLUM ELEMENTS!
25 FEBRUARY 2010 | Thursday | 6-9pm

The Big DōMo

Plum Elements will sadly be closing its doors on King Street soon. The gallery's owner, Andrea Schenck, is throwing a celebration of gratitude. We hope that you'll come out and thank HER for being such an inspiration and enormous advocate for art in our community. There will be wine, tasty treats and HUGE SALES! The trio will also be playing to set the mood. 6-9pm! FREE! The beautiful canopy above is painted by one of our own talents in Charleston, and my dear friend, Lisa Shimko. SEE HER WORK HERE!

EVERY MONDAY @ MERCATO
102 North Market Street, Downtown Charleston
843.722.6393

Every Monday is MEATBALL MONDAY (I'm serious.) at Mercato Restaurant, located in the heart of Downtown Charleston. If I ate meatballs, I would highly recommend them. Everything on their menu is pretty tasty! They do have meatless options. Lots o' pasta and really yummy pizzas. There's also a JAZZ TRIO! I'm singing with Gerald Gregory on keys and Nick Jenkins on drums. 6-10pm. I do suggest reservations if you're coming for dinner. Or grab a seat at the bar! Mercato offers jazz six nights a week - there is not a night you'll want to miss!

SAVE THE DATE

SINGIN' ON BASIE w/ The Charleston Jazz Orchestra!
27 MARCH 2010
TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW! THEJAC.ORG

TAKE BACK THE NIGHT
Sponsored by People Against Rape
01 April 2010

JAZZ VESPERS @ The Charleston Circular Church
11 April 2010

TEACHERS' SUPPLY CLOSET BENEFIT
18 April 2010

and more...

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Go Pink.

2009-10-12T15:49:00.003-04:00

If you haven't noticed, with all of the pink flair around town and in windows and on wrists and lapels....it's BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH. Save those ta tas! We're at Mercato every Monday, 6-10pm. So, while you're there do your part and order your Mertatatini and a Pink Pizza (which is actually quite delicious, by the way!) and help FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT!

See you tonight. I'll be the one wearing pink. Well, all black and a splash of pink...

fall "break"

2009-10-10T11:21:00.002-04:00

I am officially on fall "break," but that only means it's time for me to catch up!

TONIGHT, 10 October @ MED BISTRO
w/ John Oden (guitar)
*and there is a special guest sitting in with us! :)
7-10pm

TOMORROW, 11 October @ KUDU
w/ Tyler Ross (guitar) and Nick Jenkins (drums)
2-5pm

Back to catching up....I've got to send out an official email blast out soon, but right now I am staring at my overflowing inbox. Love to you all!

Hope to see you this weekend!

Love,
Leah

October Skies = Blue Skies

2009-10-03T11:39:00.003-04:00

They are blue and "smiling at me," these October skies...and they are GORGEOUS! It's nice to see and feel the change in the air. I was also very surprised at the change in the air from Charleston to Columbia. For those of you who don't know, my weeks are spent mostly as a road warrior, between Charleston and Columbia. I started graduate school this fall semester. It's significantly cooler in Columbia in the mornings and evenings. A nice change, indeed. I am now realizing that you're probably not reading my blog to hear me ramble about the weather....

Tonight, Med Bistro, West Ashley, next to Earth Fare. Tyler Ross will be on guitar and I will be singing. We play 7-10pm. The food is Mediterranean influenced, and they have a nice wine and beer selection. The walls are adorned with work from local artists. And there's parking! What more can you ask for??

After a little hiatus, healing from a broken right hand, Gerald is back on keys at Mercato. The hand seems to be healing, slowly but surely. It's the trio at Mercato, every Monday, 6-10pm. MercatoCharleston.com for reservations, menu, etc. Reservations aren't necessary, but recommended if you're eating dinner. They do have a really fantastic bar as well, so stop on by...have a drink...or three.

Lots of news on the JAC [Jazz Artists of Charleston] front. Planning for 2010 and beyond has been exciting, to say the least. Keep your ears and eyes open for the latest. In the meantime, visit THEJAC.ORG for more info.

Enjoy the weather change....and I hope to see your smiling faces soon!

Love,
Leah

this weekend

2009-08-06T20:07:00.003-04:00

This weekend I'm out at Atlanticville again...but with a new guitar player! His name is Tyler Ross. He will be teaching this fall at the College of Charleston. We play 7-10pm and it's a great covered outdoor deck on Sullivan's Island. Perfect place for a chill Friday evening. www.atlanticville.net

Sunday, August 9th we're back at Kudu! Joining me will be John Oden on guitar and Stuart White on drums. Looking forward to getting back into my Kudu groove...hope you'll join me! iheartkudu.com

Back at Mercato on Monday. This time with Ron Wiltrout on drums and Gerald Gregory back on keys. Many thanks to all who have come out to support! mercatocharleston.com

Hope you are all having a beautiful week!

Sea Libre,
Leah

bzzz....like a B.

2009-07-30T23:11:00.003-04:00

Hope you all have been enjoying your summer months! It is so hard to believe that August is here already. Where has the time all gone to?? I finally was able to hit the beach last weekend and just couldn't quite comprehend why I'm not out there more. I didn't ponder too long....I was asleep in less than 10 minutes.

As August sweeps in and yet another birthday is upon me (yikes!), I am thrilled to fill you in on a few additions to my schedule. Monday nights I will be playing regularly at Mercato Restaurant, Downtown, from 6-10pm. We started almost 3 weeks ago and we've had a fantastic time! Nick, Gerald and I are the usual trio, but the next couple of weeks will have Stuart White and Ron Wiltrout, respectively, filling in on percussion. Gerald will still be on keys. Mercato is a hip Italian joint off of Market Street, next to Planter's Inn and Peninsula Grill. Great food, reasonably priced and I hear their music is pretty sweet, too. :) In fact, they are offering jazz six nights a week now and have a terrific line-up. My point: GO TO MERCATO. Visit mercatocharleston.com to make your reservations or just show up and seat yourself at their oh-so-hip bar.

Here's the rundown for this weekend...and what the hell, NEXT weekend, too!

Friday, 31 July @ Atlanticville w/ John Oden (guitar)
Saturday, 1 August @ Med Bistro w/ John Oden (guitar)
Monday, 3 August @ Mercato w/ Gerald Gregory (keys) + Stuart White (percussion)

***

Friday, 7 August @ Atlanticville w/ Tyler Ross (guitar)
Sunday, 9 August @ Kudu w/ John Oden (guitar) + Stuart White (percussion)
Monday, 10 August @ Mercato w/ Gerald Gregory (keys) + Ron Wiltrout (percussion)

And SEPTEMBER 4th....MARK YOUR CALENDARS! LATIN NIGHT featuring the CHARLESTON JAZZ ORCHESTRA! Yours truly will be singing with the big band! You won't want to miss this special event! Tickets ON SALE NOW at THEJAC.ORG or ETIX.COM or by calling 843.641.0011.

Peace and Love,
Paz y Amor,
Leah

Brought to you by the letter B.

'tis the season...festival season, that is.

2009-05-16T12:09:00.002-04:00

So, it's festival season. All I have to say is that you should be
HERE.

summer already??

2009-05-16T12:03:00.002-04:00

Our last day at Kudu for the spring will be this Sunday, May 17th. We'll be playing the usual 2-5pm, hopefully outside on the beautiful patio....taking in all the sun we can get! Joining me will be Gerald Gregory (keys) and Nick Jenkins (drums). I'm really going to love having us all together again for this Sunday....it will be special. We'll be warming up (literally, if it stays this HOT outside) for NEXT SUNDAY, May 24th @ Mistral. Come to Kudu first, though. It's a special place and probably my most favorite to play. If you haven't been, you should ask yourself, "why not?" No, there's not an app for that....though based on our last experience at Kudu, there should be. :)

4 Vanderhorst Street, Downtown Charleston. 2-5pm. iheartkudu.com

bzzzzzz...

2009-05-14T16:16:00.002-04:00

Hello Friends,

There's a lot to catch you up on....so, I'll start with tonight! It might as well be spring....

TONIGHT, May 14th! I'll be at FISH Restaurant from 7-10pm, filling in for Elise. You should stop by....

SAVE THE DATES
Sunday, May 17 @ Kudu
Sunday, May 24 @ Mistral

Details coming soon...

Paz,
Leah

international WOMEN'S day

2009-03-08T09:12:00.008-04:00

Charleston, SC- Project Speak Up, in coordination with the Cicrcular Congregational Church of Charleston, will be kicking of the Women's International Day Celebrations in Charleston at the Circular Church, located at 150 Meeting Street, at 4pm on Sunday, March 8, 2009. The days events will feature the opening and continuation of "Hello I Am...", an art opening featuring works by photoraphers and artists including Stacy Pearsall, Mikayla Mackaness, and Priscilla Thomas, a performance by actor Joy Vandervort Cobb, a performance by Leah Suarez, lectures and discussions. Artists' work will be featured throughout the evening. The event is free and open to the public. Please come join in celebrating Women's International Day in Charleston!

The schedule of events is as follows:

4pm: Opening reception welcoming all to the International Women's Day celebrations. Art Opening featuring Project Speak Up, Leah Suarez (www.leahsuarez.com ) & Alice Keeney (www.alicekeeney.com ) and the "Hello I Am..." project, along with featured works by photographers Stacy Pearsall (www.f8pj.com), Mikayla Mackaness (www.mikaylamackaness.com/), and Priscilla Thomas(*http://priscillathomas.com/splash.html). Artists' work will be featured throughout the evening.

4:30-5:15: Performance by actor Joy Vandervort-Cobb, (http://www.cofc.edu/theatre/bios/vandervort.html) followed by readings and Q&A. 5:15-6: Reception /Art Opening featuring Project Speak Up, Leah Suarez & Alice Keeney and the "Hello I Am..." project, along with featured works by photographers Stacy Pearsall, Mikayla Mackaness, and Priscilla Thomas. Artists' work will be featured throughout the evening. 6-7: Jazz Vespers Featuring Leah Suarez featuring Kevin Hamilton (bass) and Gerald Gregory (piano)

7-8: Celebration Reception Continues

Get Mellow On Mondays

2009-02-02T13:54:00.005-05:00

Mellow Mushroom Winter Jazz Series
STARTS TONIGHT!
Monday, February 2nd
309 King Street, Downtown Charleston
7:30-10pm
$5
Charleston City Paper CITY PICK
Post & Courier Preview EDITOR'S PICK
*************************************
Leah Suárez - vocals
Gerald Gregory - keys
Nick Jenkins - drums
*************************************
Table Reservations Available
843.327.0346
mellowmanager@gmail.com
Produced by JAZZ ARTISTS OF CHARLESTON

This Winter Jazz Series will run through March 16. See full schedule below! Come out and support live jazz, my friends and colleagues.

February 2 Leah Suarez Trio
February 9 Charlton Singleton Quartet
February 16 Robert Lewis Quartet
February 23 Duda Lucena Trio
March 2 Pulse Trio
March 9 George Kenny Quartet
March 16 Quentin Baxter Trio

Stay Warm @ Voodoo

2009-02-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

Winter Jazz Series @ Voodoo Lounge
Every Saturday through March 28th!

Saturday, February 7th
Leah Suárez
w/ Richard White (keys) /7 Ron Wiltrout (drums)
9 - 11:30pm // $5
VOODOO LOUNGE
15 Magnolia Drive, Historic Avondale, West Ashley
Contact: 843.769.0228
info@voodootikibar.com
voodootikibar.com

Do You Kudu?

2009-02-02T09:19:00.000-05:00

We're back on Sundays @ Kudu! Thanks to all who have been so supportive and who continually share their Sunday afternoons with us. Such a pleasure. Winter/Spring schedule below.

Kudu Coffee
4 Vanderhorst St.
Downtown, Charleston
Every Other Sunday (more or less)
2-5pm
iheartkudu.com
(843)853-7186
****************
Leah Suárez & Friends
January 11: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
January 25: Jordan Gravel (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
February 1: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
February 15: Gerald Gregory (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
March 1: Bill Carson (guitar), Ron Wiltrout (drums)
March 15: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
April 5: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
April 19: Richard White (keys), Ron Wiltrout (drums)
May 3: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)
May 17: Richard White (keys), Nick Jenkins (drums)

See.Feel.Hear. A Few MOMENTS OF JOY

2009-02-01T14:55:00.002-05:00

My dear friend, Joy Vandervort-Cobb is starring in her very own show, "Moments of Joy," starting this Wednesday, February 5th. You DO NOT want to miss this show! Joy is an incredibly talented actress and one of those very special people put here on this Earth...to create just that - JOY. A true DIVA.

MOMENTS OF JOY

An original, hilarious and moving cabaret of stories and songs
Join Joy Vandervort-Cobb as she recounts the moments of her life that have shaped her into the irreverent, comic and compassionate women she is.

Presented by The Company Company
Written by and starring Joy Vandervort-Cobb
Directed by Maida Libkin

TICKETS
$20/$15 students and seniors
(800) 838-3006
www.thecompanycompany.com
(843) 810-8100

Circular Congregational Church
150 Meeting Street
Downtown Charleston

Thursday, February 5, 8 pm – “Pay What You Will” Preview
Friday, February 6, 8 pm Saturday, February 7, 8 pm
Sunday, February 8, 3 pm
Thursday, February 12, 8 pm
Saturday, February 14, 5 and 8 pm – Two Shows for Valentine’s Day!
Sunday, February 15, 3 pm

@ Red Drum - Saturday, November 8th

2008-11-05T21:46:00.005-05:00

THIS SATURDAY we'll return to RED DRUM in Mt. Pleasant!

9:30pm-12:30am

w/ Gerald Gregory (keys), Ben Wells (bass), Nick Jenkins (percussion)

RED DRUM

reddrumrestaurant.com

p/ 843.849.0313

803 Coleman Blvd.

Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Kudu...of course!

2008-11-05T21:45:00.003-05:00

THIS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Back at Kudu Coffeehouse in this gorgeous fall weather! Come join the crowd from 2-5pm. Usual suspects: Sam Sfirri (keys) & Nick Jenkins (drums).

iheartkudu.com

Fête des Artisans

2008-11-05T21:22:00.002-05:00

I'll be performing at the Fete des Artisans Party & Fundraiser for the American College of Building Arts on Thursday, November 6th. Details below! On the gig...Dan McCurry (keys), Jeremy Wolf (bass), Nick Jenkins (drums).

Thursday, November 6th

6:30-10pm

Navy Yard @ Noisette

$50 advance / $60 at door

2120 Noisette Blvd.. / 10 Storehouse Row

North Charleston

843.577.5245

buildingartscollege.us

Skilled Artisans, Silent Auction, French Market Fare, Festive Cocktails

Where Petals & Rain Fall

2008-11-05T20:45:00.003-05:00

Nathan Durfee has NEW work to be shown! Catch him this Friday at Robert Lange Studios....

Nathan Durfee Solo Show "Where Petals & Rain Fall"

THURSDAY, November 6th - All Day Early Preview at RLS Gallery

FRIDAY, November 7th - Reception 5-8:30pm @ RLS Gallery

SATURDAY DAY, November 8th - Plein Air Demonstrations in Washington Park

SATURDAY NIGHT - The Charleston Art Auction

Robert Lange Studios

151 East Bay Street

Downtown Charleston

robertlangestudios.com

843.805.8052

NATHANDURFEE.COM

over the bridge

2008-10-24T09:32:00.005-04:00

SATURDAYS @ RED DRUM
October 25 & November 8
Yes, it's over "the bridge," but it's definitely worth the trip! For those of you already in Mt. P, I'm finally playing in your neck of the woods. Red Drum's menu is phenomenal with their Mediterranean and Latin inspired tapas and extensive specialty drink menu. They will be serving $7 martinis and $5 margaritas with their finest tequila. Fabulous decor, fantastic food, beautiful people and sizzling music, of course! Visit their kickin' website for lots more info:
reddrumrestaurant.com

October 25 - TOMORROW!

9:30pm-12:30am
w/ Gerald Gregory (keys), Ben Wells (bass), Stuart White (percussion)

November 8 - in 2 weeks
9:30pm-12:30am
w/ Gerald Gregory (keys), Ben Wells (bass), Nick Jenkins (percussion)

RED DRUM
p/843.849.0313
803 Coleman Boulevard
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Directions to the Red Drum:

From the Airport/Daniel Island: 526 East toward Mount Pleasant, follow until it dead ends; turn right, 3^rd building after Taco Bell on the left.

From Downtown Charleston: 17 North (stay in right two lanes), exit Coleman Blvd., pass GDC and Mikes Bikes one block. Red Drum is after Subway on the right.

From Sullivan’s Island: Cross over the Sullivan’s Island drawbridge, go through two stoplights; Red Drum will be the third building after Taco Bell on the left.

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

SUNDAYS @ KUDU
October 26, November 9, November 23
Join us on Sundays and enjoy the weather and tunes. It's fall on the patio...
2-5pm
w/ Sam Sfirri (keys) & Nick Jenkins (percussion)

Kudu Coffeehouse
4 Vanderhorst Street
Charleston, SC 29401
p/843.853.7186
iheartkudu.com

Hope to see you soon! Enjoy your weekend...

AvoJazz for the Rainy Season

2008-07-30T17:59:00.014-04:00

Hello Friends,

I hope that this post finds you all doing well and enjoying this stormy summer we've been having. I find it refreshing...until the rain stops and it just feels like a sauna. There nothing quite like the smell of rain...

I have seen some of you out and about lately asking when and where I'll be next...so, here's the lowdown. After some much needed time "away", I am easing back into things this Saturday, August 2nd at Voodoo Lounge. Jen and Mike (owners of Voo Doo) have been ever so gracious in hosting a Jazz & Blues Series at their really hip tiki lounge. You don't know what you're missing if you haven't been! Voodoo is located in the historic district of Avondale. The first set starts at 8:30pm and we'll be playing until 11:30ish, I do believe. They have fun fruity drinks and fantastic tacos you can enjoy all while listening to yours truly and some dear friends of mine play some music...Nathan Koci (keys, accordion), Kevin Hamilton (bass) and Nick Jenkins (percussion). Prior to the show there is an event at a quaint and happenin' little neighborhood wine shop...Avondale Wine & Cheese....dinner featuring one of my favorite foods. The AVOCADO! (yummy details below)

DETAILS, DETAILS... AUGUST 2nd, 2008
Voodoo Tiki Bar & Lounge
Tickets are available through Voo Doo Lounge ONLY and are only $5! Reservations must be made in person. For more information call 843.769.0228 or visit voodootikibar.com.

BEFORE THE SHOW...
Stop by Avondale Wine & Cheese and see my friend Manoli for her Grand Finale to Avocado Week! For more information call 843.769.5444. Avondale Wine & Cheese is located at 813-B Savannah Highway, Charleston, in the Historic District of Avondale (West Ashley).

Details directly from her infamous newsletter...
"I'm going to VooDoo to see Leah Suarez sing so this event is from 7-9pm sharp. It's $15 unless you present your ticket to the show in which case the dinner drops to $10...WHAT A VALUE! I'll be making quesadillas to order with your choice of cheese and veggies. And of course there will be lots of guacomole and chips. The wine is free-select beers are $2 a bottle.
If you wear green or yellow, you'll get a raffle ticket for a $25 gift certificate. By wearing green, I mean a green shirt, pair of pants, dress or skirt. A green hat will not suffice....neither will green string or emeralds, or magic marker stains. That about covers it. I invite everyone to go carefully across the street with me to see some jazz afterwards."

::::

Thank you for your overwhelming support!

Enjoy the rainy season...it will make you appreciate the sun. Enjoy the avocados...they're good for you. And I hope that you will enjoy the music...I enjoy making it.

Paz,
Leah

::::

photo credit: Ben Williams

summer @ kudu

2008-07-05T15:47:00.003-04:00

This Sunday I will be back at Kudu and I am really looking forward to it! Yes, we know...it's HOT and HUMID, but if you can't beat it, then sweat a little. Sam Sfirri will join me on his Rhodes (awesome) and Mr. Nick Jenkins will be our percussive backbone. I'm really looking forward to being out and about again. Kudu does offer cold beverages as well as the regular hot ones. Their fruit smoothies and iced coffees and teas are delicious. Join us...it will be fun. 2-5pm. Hopefully in the courtyard...with some fans to hopefully cool us down....and some good tunes. It will be hot.

SUNDAY, JULY 6th & 20th
2-5pm
*August dates TBA

IN THE MEANTIME, MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR
AUGUST 1st & 29th...
details soon!

HELLO, I AM at Kudu...
Don't forget to go into their side gallery, under the stairs and across from the main coffee shop. There you will find the first small part to a larger project I am working on with photographer and friend ALICE KEENEY. We are excited to present more in the fall. Stay tuned! In the meantime, check out "HELLO, I AM" (photography and slideshow) at Kudu's Gallery. For more information about the project, please visit projectspeakup.blogspot.com.

around.

2008-06-24T12:35:00.002-04:00

For those of you wondering, I am around. I will be back to reality in a bit. Stay tuned for dates...lots of them! As always, I thank you for your incredible support!

Play in the sun,
Leah

25 may. upstairs @ mistral. piccolo spoleto.

2008-05-17T18:08:00.004-04:00

I'm very excited and proud to be a part of this year's 30th Anniversary Piccolo Spoleto Festival Jazz Series!! I will be performing in two very different events and am in hopes to see you all out and about. Sunday, May 25th, the guys and I will be performing Upstairs at Mistral at Mistral Restaurant - located at 99 S Market Street. This is a brand new series that has very limited seating and tickets are selling fast! I will be debuting a couple of new tunes and sharing the stage with Gerald Gregory (piano), David Linaburg (guitar), Nathan Koci (accordion/flugelhorn), Kevin Hamilton (bass) and Nick Jenkins (drums). This will be the last chance to see David playing with us for awhile, as he is looking forward to his move to New York. Mistral is offering an $11 menu/item (excluding tax & tip) and will be serving from their full bar selection. Entrance to this event is via 180 Meeting Street, in the First Citizens Building. Take the elevator to the second floor. Tickets are $15 and are available online now at PICCOLOSPOLETO.COM or by calling 843.554.6060. Tickets are also available at the Piccolo Spoleto Box Office at the Gaillard Auditorium.

PLEASE ALSO SEE MY FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES! MANY OF THEM ARE ALSO PERFORMING IN THIS SERIES. A COMPLETE SCHEDULE CAN BE FOUND AT JAZZARTISTSOFCHARLESTON.ORG.

MYSPACE.COM/LEAHSUAREZ
LEAHSUAREZ.COM

THIS SUNDAY @ FOOTLIGHT

2008-05-17T17:34:00.005-04:00

THIS SUNDAY, MAY 18th @ 5pm, Jazz Artists of Charleston will kick-off its PICCOLO SPOLETO JAZZ SERIES at Footlight Players Theatre (20 Queen Street) with a preview celebration, "Footnotes at Footlight." BUY TICKETS HERE! Featured performing artists from this year's Jazz Series will be taking the stage to present highlighted performances from their scheduled shows throughout the festival. It's a PARTY! Performances by Tommy Gill, Kopaja, Bobbie Storm, Lee Barbour, Garage Cuban Band, Kevin Hackler, Havanason, Duda Lucena, Gradual Lean, Leah Suárez, Robert Lewis & Fearless Jones, Ann Caldwell and more!! Don't miss this opportunity to see and hear all of this talent under one roof! The celebration kicks off at 5pm with a fully catered reception in the alley beside Footlight Players Theatre by The Trusted Palate (paninis, cous cous and more!) and Avondale Wine & Cheese (sangria, beer and wine), and with music by The Pulse Trio. The main stage concert will begin at 6pm and will go into the evening until about 9pm. This is an exciting time to kick off a brand new series produced by a brand new organization - Jazz Artists of Charleston - in partnership with the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs.

This is a perfect time to BUY TICKETS for the PICCOLO SPOLETO JAZZ SERIES EVENTS as the Piccolo Spoleto Box Office will be on hand to sell tickets at this very special preview event! Tickets are selling fast to the UPSTAIRS AT MISTRAL SERIES and HOLY CITY HOMECOMIN' events!

Tickets $25 / $50 VIP (includes 2008 Commemorative Poster and CDs)
BUY TICKETS HERE!
Box Office opens at 4pm at Footlight Players Theatre.
more info...
jazzartistsofcharleston.org
843.564.5154

save the dates...

2008-04-25T09:23:00.002-04:00

It's been a little crazy lately and there has been a lot of transition. Good transition, but change nonetheless. There will be lots more to update and tell you about in the coming weeks. In the meantime, MARK YOUR CALENDARS! There are some amazingly good things happening....

my current schedule

myspace.com/leahsuarez

and another calendar you should bookmark!

jac events

there's a lot coming up HERE and HERE - performing and visual arts galore!

Keep supporting live and local music, art and theatre! It's important, invaluable, priceless and will make you feel better. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

the company company's sunday sunday picnic picnic

2008-04-25T08:56:00.007-04:00

The Company Company - a local theatre group - is hosting a benefit, or should I say PICNIC? THIS SUNDAY, APRIL 27th, join us for an incredible line-up of music, theatre, poetry, spoken word, drama and FUN! It's only $5 (a sound donation)! Show starts at 7pm and goes until midnight. There really is something for everyone - even a silent auction to benefit this great arts organization committed to producing and presenting more live theatre in Charleston. I'll be performing in the early set, roughly 7:30pm and later with poet, Max Berger (a rare performance, indeed)! Others include: Lindsay Holler and The Dirty Kids, Garage Cuban Band, Mr. Jenkins, David Lee Nelson, Marcus Amaker and more! And what would a picnic be without an emcee? THE Joy Vandervort-Cobb! See you this Sunday Sunday at the Picnic Picnic at The Tin Roof - 2117 Magnolia Road, West Ashley.

thecompanycompany.com

a global awakening - TONIGHT!

2008-04-25T08:37:00.005-04:00

Photographer (and friend) ALICE KEENEY, will be presenting her work at Global Awakening - a fair trade store located at 499 King Street, Downtown Charleston TONIGHT, FRIDAY, APRIL 25th - 5-8pm. Gerald Gregory (keys) and I will be accompanying the evening and Alice's gorgeous photography with our music. Alice's work is on the walls at Kudu Coffee year round. The show tonight is offering a combination of her staple pieces and some NEW work! The reception tonight is FREE and open to the public. There will be complimentary wine and snacks. Hope to see you there!

For more information, please visit the following sites:

alicekeeney.com
globalawakeningmarket.com

or call
843.577.8579.

and you should know about this

2008-03-19T04:20:00.001-04:00

a little love

2008-03-17T10:40:00.002-04:00

My gig at Kudu got a little love this morning from the P&C. LINK TO LOVE. Thank you to all who came to enjoy the "easy livin'" on the patio, especially Jack and thanks to Sam and Stu for making it possible. Special thanks to John Saunders and the staff at Kudu for being so accommodating and supportive! We'll be back, I'm sure with phenomenal weather, on April 6th, same time, same place. 2-5pm. See you soon!

nytsq - tuesday 3/25

2008-03-17T10:25:00.004-04:00

NEW YORK TOKYO QUARTET TO BRING UNEXPECTED TWISTS TO JAZZ CLASSICS

TUESDAY, MARCH 25th @ 8PM
RECITAL HALL at The College of Charleston

Co-Sponsored by Jazz Artists of Charleston & CofC School of the Arts

CHARLESTON, SC - The New York Tokyo Standards Quartet is one of the most exciting bands to hit the scene. The scene in question, however, has been in Shinjuku, Aoyama and Kyoto - and points east, namely, the islands of Japan. That is, until now. The Jazz Studies Program in the College of Charleston’s School of the Arts and co-sponsor Jazz Artists of Charleston, will host a concert by the quartet on Tuesday, March 25 at 8 p.m. The event will take place in the Recital Hall of the Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St. Admission is $10 general public / $5 for students with ID. For more information, please call (843) 953-5927.

The quartet will also conduct a master class on Monday, March 24 from 5-7 p.m. in Room 316 of the Simons Center. General admission is $5 and students with ID may attend free of charge.

This unique band features some of New York's busiest jazz players, who developed their rapport by playing clubs in Manhattan and who reunited 6,000 miles away during their regular travels in Japan. The band's concept is straightforward, keeping the music simple. They draw on jazz classics and material from the familiar world of jazz standards but bring freedom to it and fun playing that invites the unexpected. Three tours around Nihon later, on the eve of the release of their first recording (“Live from NHK”), the results are impressive.

Tim Armacost, a fiery tenor saxophone player, has shared the stage with the likes of Jimmy Cobb, Kenny Barron, Tom Harrell, Billy Hart and many of the world’s most famous jazz musicians. He speaks fluent Japanese and has traveled to Japan regularly since his school days. David Berkman brings a mountain of harmony to the group. His playing is always rhythmically forceful and filled with unusual twists and turns. Yosuke Inoue, a New York club regular who has recently moved back to Japan, is justly celebrated as one of the country’s finest bassists. His solos are virtuosic and filled with his wry humor, and his outlandish quotes appear in unimagined places. Gene Jackson, the ultimate Japanophile, who lives on Toro (Fatty Tuna), Unagi (eel) and top-level sake, is a drummer of the highest order - a favorite of many jazz superstars such as Herbie Hancock, Dave Holland and Branford Marsalis.

Jazz artists, such as the members of the New York Tokyo Standards Quartet, have inspired the 2008 inception of Jazz Artists of Charleston (JAC), a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote musical awareness and education, including the recognition and preservation of the history of jazz, in the City of Charleston through performances, special events and educational outreach. A significant hallmark of JAC’s inaugural year is their partnership with the City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs in its efforts to produce the 2008 Piccolo Spoleto Festival Jazz Series in its 30th year. For more information about Jazz Artists of Charleston, visit www.jazzartistisofcharleston.org or call (843) 564-5154.

sc hit parade - this saturday! 3/22

2008-03-17T09:18:00.006-04:00

SC HIT PARADE BRINGS CHARLTON SINGLETON BIG BAND TO STAGE

SATURDAY, MARCH 22 @ 7PM
CHARLESTON MUSIC HALL

Presented and Produced by Jack McCray

BUY TICKETS HERE

Benefiting the Charleston Jazz Initiative

CHARLESTON, SC - The South Carolina Hit Parade, a big band concert, will be held Saturday, March 22, 2008 at 7p.m. at the Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St., Downtown Charleston. The 20-piece Charlton Singleton Orchestra will present a repertoire of jazz tunes composed by, or associated with, musicians from South Carolina including: Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Green, Fud Livingston, Buddy and Ella Johnson, Bubber Miley, and others. Tickets are $30 in advance / $40 at the door and available at etix.com.

Singleton is a highly regarded and versatile musician, educator, composer and arranger who has helped create the current climate of popularity being enjoyed by jazz in Charleston these days. The band includes many of South Carolina’s musical bright lights such as saxophonist Mark Sterbank, trumpeter Chuck Dalton and trombonist Fred Wesley Jr., former bandleader for James Brown. The CSO rhythm section comprises bassist Kevin Hamilton, pianist Richard White Jr. and percussionist Quentin Baxter, also the rhythm section for CJI’s popular ensemble, the Franklin Street Five. Joining the trio in the CSO rhythm section is guitarist Lee Barbour, one of the best young jazz guitarists in the country, according to guitar giant Joe Beck, Miles Davis’ first guitar player. Vocalists are Tony Burke and Ann Caldwell, Charleston’s First Lady of Jazz.

The concert will benefit the Charleston Jazz Initiative, a research project that explores the history and legacy of jazz in Charleston and other places in South Carolina.

To purchase tickets by phone or for assistance with etix.com, contact 1.800.514.ETIX Monday through Friday from 9-6, or Saturday from 12-5. For more information, interviews and photo opportunities, call Jack McCray at 843-607-3905 or e-mail info@charlestonjazz.net.

CDs AVAILABLE ONLINE!

2008-03-07T11:41:00.002-05:00

FINALLY, I got around to shipping that little box with 5 lonely CDs, waiting to be sold HERE. Thank you CD BABY for sending me all of those emails, reminding me of my slackness. Thank you for your patience and here's hoping that you've been anxiously awaiting to buy my latest release, Found Freedom, online!! Just a reminder that it is also available at Avondale Wine & Cheese, Barnes & Noble (Mt. Pleasant) and 52.5 Records!

Thank you for your support!!

go see something this weekend!

2008-03-07T10:50:00.005-05:00

There are a lot of great options for you this weekend. I hope that you'll take advantage of the artistic quality that is being presented in a lot of different mediums. Here are just a few....

LAST NIGHT I went to the opening of an exhibit at the Harper Wellness Center, co-sponsored by MUSC and The Center for Women, in celebration of Women's History Month. Yes, February is Women's History Month and there were some great photographers' work featured at this event. I encourage you to stop by and see the exhibit in the lobby the Wellness Center on Courtney Street. There you will find fabulous images from exception women photographers, including Alice Keeney, Marni Rothschild and Brianna Stello.

TONIGHT, MARCH 7 French Quarter Art Walk - 5-8pm
Most of the art galleries downtown will be open and presenting their latest show! There are a lot of great local artists represented, including Nathan Durfee at Robert Lange Studios and Lisa Shimko at Lime Blue (62b queen st.).

LISTEN...
Quentin Baxter Ensemble @ The Charleston Grill 8p-12a
Robert Lewis & Fearless Jones @ The Trusted Palate 9:30p-12:30a
Duda Lucena @ Pilot's Lounge - 4340 Ladson Rd. 8p-12a
Kevin Hackler @ Mercato 9p-12a

TOMORROW, MARCH 8

Jonathan Green Week Performance @ The Circular Church
Gullah Expressions Concert - 3:30-5pm
Circular Congregational Church - jonathangreenweek.com
World premiere of a new commission by composer and professor (CofC), Trevor Weston

Quentin Baxter Ensemble @ The Charleston Grill 8p-12a
Bill Carson & Friends @ Mercato - 9p-12a
Cary Ann Hearst @ The Trusted Palate - 9:30p-12:30a

SUNDAY, MARCH 9

See you at Jazz Vespers!

jazz vespers this sunday!

2008-03-07T10:21:00.005-05:00

This Sunday, March 9th, I hope to see you at Jazz Vespers at the Circular Congregational Church located at 150 Meeting Street, Downtown Charleston. The performance starts at 6pm, preceded by an educational program, sponsored by the Charleston Concert Association in conjunction with the Charleston Jazz Initiative. The Jazz Ed Program will begin at 5pm in the same building. I will be discussing the influences and process of my original compositions, mostly, and there will be a question and answer session as well. Both the lecture and performance are admission free! Joining me for the performance are pianist Gerald Gregory, bassist Kevin Hamilton and percussionist Stuart White. As always, thank you for your support!!

Love to you all!

Leah

TODAY @ 52.5

2008-02-01T09:52:00.000-05:00

I am literally crawling out from under that January rock and welcoming February with a song...or two! It's late notice, but if you're out and about, come check us out @ 52.5 Records, Downtown Charleston, at 7pm. Come visit your favorite locally owned and operated shop, where you can find an eclectic mix of merch, cds, zines and say "hey" to Clay, the owner. Thank him for supporting local artists! We're playing only one 45 minute set "on the rug." It'll be me, singing that new CD for you! Joining me on the rug tonight are David Linaburg (guitar), Nathan Koci (accordion, flugelhorn), Nick Jenkins (percussion). 52.5 is the ONLY Downtown location that "Found Freedom" is being sold. Hope to see you there! If not, be on the lookout next week. Lots more coming soon!! Most of all, I hope that all of you are enjoying a great start to the New Year!!

Love,

Leah

merry everything

2007-12-12T00:32:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends!

Last gig of the year -- THIS SUNDAY, December 16th @ Kudu Coffee! And yes, we will be playing your favorite holiday tunes! We start at 2pm and end around 5pm. Last time the rain brought us in...will the cold bring us inside this weekend?! Come out and wear your ugliest Christmas sweater, reindeer headband or jingle ball necklace and sing along! Full quartet will be in action on Sunday....that's me (vocals), David Linaburg (guitar), Gerald Gregory (keys) and Nick Jenkins (drums). It's FREE!! And for those of you who want to purchase that CD as a gift, see me on Sunday!

Have a Merry Christmas, Happy Holiday Season and good health, peace and happiness for the New Year!

Love,
Leah

abb. t.u. - cds on sale! - redux anniversary + kudu

2007-11-28T13:03:00.000-05:00

Hello My Friends!

Well, after taking a few days to gorge myself with several feasts over Thanksgiving, I am back and in "work" mode. It was a nice holiday and I took some time to rest and reflect. I sincerely thank all of you that were in attendance at the CD Release Show @ Theatre 99 a couple of weeks ago! I was so thrilled to have so many incredibly talented musicians on stage with me and see so many of your beautiful faces in the audience! THANK YOU! I have LOTS of individuals and businesses to give shout outs to, but please give me a little more time for a rather complete list, so excuse the abbreviated thank you....I have some important happenings to fill you in on for this week! Hope to see you soon and somewhere! Paz y Amor, Leah

REDUX Contemporary Art Center
5 Year Anniversary ART AUCTION & BASH!
THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 30th!

Redux is celebrating its 5TH anniversary as a non-profit art center this year with an exciting evening and live art auction in the newly renovated Charleston Art Institute building. Over 65 paintings, sculptures, photographs and drawings by some of the most accomplished artists in the region will be available for bidding during this exciting event.

Friday, November 30th 6-10pm
Art Institute of Charleston (E.Bay St. / Market St.)
Celebration & Preview 6-8pm
Auction starts at 8pm

Music By:
Garage Cuban Band {Bill Carson, Nathan Koci, Jonathan Gray, Jack Burg, & Ron Wiltrout}
and Leah Suarez & Friends

Click Here to preview all 65 available works!!!
http://www.reduxstudios.org/Exhibition%20Photos/Web%20Photos/viewer.swf

Show your support...
Ticket prices includes cocktails and light hors d'oeuvres
$50 Renewing Member (w/ 1 year membership to Redux)
$25 Members

Call 843-722-0697 now to reserve tickets!!!
or click here to purchase via paypal
http://www.reduxstudios.org/
*all proceeds go to our non-profit programs*

Artists Included in the Auction:
Seth Curcio, Julie Henson, Karin Olah, Tattfoo Tan, Jarod Charzewski, Lisa Shimko, Mary Walker, Robert Lange, Kevin Hoth, Townsend Davidson, Kaminer Haislip, Tina Hirsig, Erik Johnson, Jessie Kendall, Dorothy Netherland, Bob Snead, Seth Gadsden, Jonathan Brilliant, Bob Brown, Michael Gray, Colleen Terrell, Leslie McKeller, John Duckworth, Austin Shultz, Linda Fantuzzo, Andrew Dyke, Jeff Kopish, Donna Hurt, Sandy Logan, ... plus many, many, more.

Event Sponsors: Art Institute of Charleston,Red Bull, Social, Out of Hand, Dixie Supply, Firefly Vodka and Fast & French, Little Black Book.

Festive attire is encouraged.

_____________________________________________________

KUDU COFFEE THIS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2nd!

Gerald Gregory on keys will join me this Sunday, December 2nd for another relaxing Sunday afternoon at Kudu Coffee. Come enjoy your favorite refreshment and our tunes this Sunday from 2-5pm. Who knows, we may even throw in a few of those Christmas favorites! Oh, and it is a good place to crash while you're waiting for traffic to clear from the Christmas Parade! Kudu is located at 4 Vanderhorst Street, between King & St. Philip Streets! It's nice to see the regulars.

______________________________________

FOUND FREEDOM ON SALE NOW!

If you didn't get your copy of "Found Freedom" at the show and would like to buy one...or two, or three....you can find them in the following local Charleston locations:

52.5 Records - Downtown Charleston, 561 King Street - Go in, see Clay, buy lots of music, zines, pins, stickers, etc! They have it all! This is the only Downtown location CDs will be available for the time being.

Avondale Wine & Cheese - Avondale, West Ashley, 813 - B Savannah Highway - Go in, have a glass of fantastic wine, see Manoli. Tastings are Mondays & Thursdays 5 - 7pm. Better yet....help decorate for the holidays by bringing an ornament in on Saturday, December 1st...and get a bubbly surprise for $1. :) This is the only West Ashley location the CDs are available for now.

Barnes & Noble - Mt. Pleasant Towne Center - Highway 17 North - Go in, visit my friends and former co-workers, get a book for MUSC Children's Hospital's HAPPY WHEELS and of course pick up "Found Freedom!" Free gift wrapping, too, from the smiling volunteers of Happy Wheels (please make a donation)! It seriously is a fantastic organization that takes books, music and toys on a cart through the Children's Hospital @ MUSC once a week to bring a smile to critcally ill patients. They really are angels!

"Found Freedom" will be available to purchase online soon via CD Baby! Or, I will always have them available at my gigs. So, come out, see me! :)

_____________________________________

A FEW NOTEWORTHY PERFORMANCES THIS WEEK + END....

Thursday, November 29th
Robert Lewis & Fearless Jones @ Porgy's Other Place - 9:30pm -12:30am
Robert Lewis (saxophones), Ron Wiltrout (drums), Frank Duvall (keyboards)

Halsey Institute: Paper Moon
Saturday, December 1st | 9pm | C of C Recital Hall
The Halsey Institute has commissioned a collaboration between the NMC and Geoffrey Cormier. On this night we will present Geoff's Wayang Modern, modern shadow puppet theater with new and arranged music by the New Music Collective. 54 St. Philip Street

New Music New Charleston
December 2nd | 8pm | Circular Church
The New Music Collective presents its next concert. Performances by all local players of works by Cerrone, Clyne, Cooper, Reich, So, and Wollschleger. Premieres of works by Nathan Koci and Michael Hanf.
$10, $5 for students | Circular Congregational Church | 150 Meeting Street

recovery

2007-11-17T15:03:00.001-05:00

Hello Friends!!
Thank you all so much for coming out to Theatre 99 to celebrate with me this past Thursday! What a celebration! I had a blast and really cannot thank you enough for being a part of such an incredible evening. It was just so much fun for me on stage, to finally release this music and be able to perform in a perfect space. Though I unfortunately did not get to personally talk to or see a lot of you, please know that your presence there truly meant more than you'll ever know. This is the first CD released as "Leah Suarez" and that makes me proud. I have so many people to thank, but give me a little bit to catch my breath and that long list will be posted on my blog soon enough! In the meantime, enjoy this weekend! And be sure to find me to purchase "Found Freedom" or it will be in stores soon and available online next week!! I'll make sure I send out my email announcement with details.

In the meantime, I hope that you'll join me tomorrow, Sunday, November 18th @ Kudu Coffee for a relaxing Sunday afternoon of music provided by yours truly, along with Dave Linaburg on guitar and Nick Jenkins on percussion. It's a date change - apologies for the late notice! We'll be playing from 2-5pm.

More coming soon!!

Hug someone!
Leah

Found Freedom - CD RELEASE CELEBRATION!!

2007-11-08T16:01:00.001-05:00

CD RELEASE CELEBRATION!
NEXT THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15th @ THEATRE 99!

I am excited to announce the release of FOUND FREEDOM - my new EP - the first as 'Leah Suarez!' I am very excited about the release celebration show at Theatre 99 on THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15th @ 8pm!! TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE NOW ONLINE AT THEHAVENOTS.COM OR LEAHSUAREZ.COM. Get your tickets soon! There is limited seating available in this intimate atmosphere.

It's going to be a fantastic evening with some incredible local talent joining me for the evening, including: Gerald Gregory on piano and organ, David Linaburg on electric and acoutic guitars, Nathan Koci on accordion and flugelhorn, Kevin Hamilton on bass, Ron Wiltrout on percussion, Nick Jenkins on drums, with special guests Bill Carson, Matthew Bivins, Lindsay Holler and Duda Lucena!! Album Artist Nathan Durfee will be on hand with his original artwork (prints) from the album. Tickets are only $10 and available online now or by calling 843-853-6687.

I hope that you will be able to join me on this special evening as all of you have been so very supportive of me and my music over the years - and especially this past year. I am quite grateful for Brandy & Greg of The Havenots & Theatre 99 for hosting such a special event - one where I will be surrounded by and performing with some of my best friends, family and supporters. "Found Freedom" is really "me" for the first time. Five of the eight selections are my original compositions on the album, so I feel especially proud of the content. Album Artist, Nathan Durfee and graphic designer, Lindsay Windham have really been responsible for making this album's beautiful packaging and making my music come to life visually.

Show starts @ 8pm; Doors open @ 7:30. Theatre 99 is located at 280 Meeting Street above the Bicycle Shoppe. The entrance is up the stairs at the back of the building. Parking is available in metered spaces on Meeting Street and the garages on George and Wentworth Streets. Remember, remember the FIFTEENTH of November! Thank you for all of your support and I can't wait to CELEBRATE with you all!!! PS...CDs & Merchandise will be for sale by cash & check only.

Paz,
Leah

thank you!

2007-11-05T16:42:00.000-05:00

A big thank you to all who came out to Nathan Durfee's Opening Reception! It was a fantastic turn out and the show did really well! It will be on display for the next three weeks, so definitely make a point to stop by and see the beauty on the walls at Modernisme Gallery as soon as you can! You can't miss it...look for the lovely sunflowers in the windows. Remember that there are still prints from the album up for sale as well as painting s by DURF in various sizes and those oh-so-hip sketchbooks! I'll post some pictures soon from that night....we had such a great time playing and it was the official unveiling of the soon-to-be-released EP, "Found Freedom!" The CDs just arrived last week and now it's show time! I cannot tell you how happy I am about the artwork and soon we'll be presenting the music for your listening pleasure. The show is coming up and we've got a good group of special guests and regular friends on the bill for the 15th. Bring your friends, neighbors, everyone and anyone. TICKETS ON SALE NOW BY CLICKING HERE! Can't wait to celebrate with you!

Love, Leah

DURF's ART, OUR music

2007-11-02T15:27:00.000-04:00

This Saturday, November 3rd @ Modernisme Gallery, artist and friend, Nathan Durfee, will present "Celebrations of Stems & Clouds." He is talking about his work @ 5:30pm and the Opening Reception begins at 6pm lasting until 9pm. Nathan's work fills the gallery now and it looks really incredible! We {Leah Suárez on vocals, Gerald Gregory on keys, Nathan Koci on accordion & flugelhorn, David Linaburg on guitar and Nick Jenkins on drums) will be playing for the reception!

It will be nasty, in a really GREAT way! Nathan is responsible for the beautiful artwork and design for my upcoming CD Release, "Found Freedom." The CD has arrived and will be pre-released for those who are buying prints from the CD at Nathan's show. Otherwise, they will be released on Thursday, November 15 @ Theatre 99! Tickets on sale now!! Nathan has created four beautiful prints from the CD artwork and they are selling at the show in very limited editions of 10 each. I have included those images below. He also has his ink drawings, sketchbooks, other digital work and incredible oil on canvas for a wide range of prices, starting from $75. For more information, contact the Modernisme Gallery at 843.763.1551 or visit one of the sites below!

nathandurfee.com
leahsuarez.com
modernismegallery.com
thehavenots.com

AS ALWAYS, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!! WE WILL SEE YOU ON SATURDAY!!!

"Found Freedom II" - 2'x2' - $250 -This is the art from the dedication page of the album.
"Found Freedom I" - 2'x2' - $250 - This is from the cover album art!

"The Stairwell" - 11x17" - This is a combination and variation on the inside booklet artwork depicting the song "Rest In Peace."
"The Cast" - 11x17" - $150 - This is artwork combined from the inside booklet and the actual on-disc art. The man depicts the song "Beautiful Stranger," while the woman on the right depicts "Dangerous Dance." The bird and sunflower are the images on the actual disc.

@ kudu!

2007-10-25T10:42:00.000-04:00

This Sunday, October 28th, the whole gang is at Kudu Coffee! We'll (hopefully) be playing on the patio from 2-5pm. It's a beautiful atmosphere....lots of fun people, good music and great coffee and teas! If you're lucky enough, owner John Saunders will be around the shop. See you Sunday!

Also, we're gearing up for next Saturday, November 3rd for Nathan Durfee's Solo Show Reception @ Modernisme Gallery. For more information, please visit nathandurfee.com or modernismegallery.com.

Oh, and there's a little project I've been working on...it's being released on November 15th @ Theatre 99. For more information, please visit thehavenots.com or leahsuarez.com.

This poster...
Photo by Alice Keeney; Design by Olive*Argyle

ep release!!

2007-10-21T20:59:00.000-04:00

I am excited to officially announce the release of my EP, 'Found Freedom!' There are many more details to come. For now, enjoy the promotional poster with artwork by Nathan Durfee (DURF). Nathan created the beautiful artwork for the entire album! It is something special, for sure. The album artwork will be for sale at his upcoming solo show @ Modernisme Gallery. You don't want to miss it! Saturday, November 3rd...Artist Lecture @ 5:30pm with a fun reception from 6-9pm. Did I mention we're playing?! For more information or if you are interested in a preview of Nathan's work, please go by Modernisme Gallery at 21 Magnolia Road and see owner, Kristy Cifuentes or visit the gallery's website, modernismegallery.com. Or...check out Durf's work on his website.... nathandurfee.com. And oh yeah...November 15th! Theatre 99!! Found Freedom RELEASE!!! See you this Sunday @ Kudu....it's the whole gang, so I do hope that you'll join us. 2-5pm, 4 Vanderhorst Street.

Until then....Leah

tomorrow!

2007-10-11T07:55:00.000-04:00

You don't want to miss it tomorrow...the show, that is! Many, many details below in my last post...however, if you want more, just let me know...shoot me an email - I'd love to hear from you! Better yet, I'd love to see you tomorrow night @ the show! Tickets available HERE. Thank you for your continued support and for staying informed. I hope you all are doing well! Don't forget to check out those friends of mine in the links section to your right. They are doing good things...

Enjoy your weekend!

Best,
Leah

buzzzz. October 12th - be there!

2007-10-04T07:10:00.000-04:00

Hello, Hello!! Remember that busy fall I have been going on and on about? Well, it's here! This week, there's lots going on and I hope that we'll see you soon! This week I have been working hard to finish that much anticipated EP as well. Found Freedom coming soon....released November 15th!

NEXT FRIDAY, OCTOBER 12th @ MODERNISME GALLERY - BUY TICKETS HERE!

This show will be our one and only shows @ Modernisme Gallery this fall! We will be playing a good mix of music - straight up Jazz standards, some bossa nova and a couple of my own tunes! I'm excited about my "not-so-new" friends joining me for this show. It will be quite a treat, as we will be playing acoustically for the most part. As for the band...Gerald Gregory on piano, Nathan Koci playing accordion and flugelhorn, Kevin Hamilton on upright bass and Ron Wiltrout on drums and percussion. The show starts @ 8pm, but doors open at 7pm, leaving lots of time to peruse Modernisme's beautiful artwork by contemporary artists. We will play one set, lasting approximately 80 minutes. Tickets are $20, which includes complimentary wine throughout the event. Wine provided by Avondale Wine & Cheese Seating is general admission and very limited. Tickets available for purchase HERE! If you haven't yet made it out for a "Modernisme Show," this is your one and only chance this season! It's a very intimate atmosphere....allowing for a "storytellers" type setting and a chance to experience live music in a unique and personal way. Thank you to Modernisme's owner, Kristy Cifuentes for supporting live music and contemporary art. And thank YOU for supporting us!

TONIGHT, 10.04.07
"Brainstorm" Art Show to benefit the Eckman Family Fund - Upstairs @ Rue de Jean - more info

SUNDAY, 10.07 - Duo @ Kudu with a special guest (back from Japan!) - 2pm - 5pm - more info

More dates to keep in mind...
November 3rd @ Modernisme - Nathan Durfee's Solo Show
November 15th @ Theatre 99 - Found Freedom Release Show & Party!

Enjoy the weekend!

Paz y Amor,
Leah

fall, hugo & kudu

2007-09-20T22:27:00.000-04:00

This weekend marks an official change of seasons....and, well, it is definitely fall! I can tell by my calendar! Today, in particular though, marks the anniversary of a hurricane that we experienced here in Charleston many years ago, aptly named 'Hugo'. It was another world then...pre-911, pre-Katrina...it was 18 years ago, so I was also 8 years old and my world was a lot different. My home of Charleston was a VERY different place then...my playground was literally the shores of Sullivan's Island and there was only one way on and off of that island. We were homeless, without electricity in the shelters, little food and water to ration out between many and left with that smell of mildew that still rests, even today, in the photo albums that were barely salvageable. And though recovery seemed so far away, we had each other...and we had a new appreciation for all that we loved and what was important. I'm thankful for that time.

SEE COMPLETE update HERE! Lately I have been in "crunch time" for an EP Release! There are deadlines to meet...and lots to do before everything comes together, but I do feel good about the TEAM of artists involved! Please be sure to check out my list of links on my blog....they are my friends and colleagues...and they do wondrous things! I really do hope to see you soon...and if not, at least hear how YOU are doing!

THIS Sunday, September 23rd, I will be at Kudu Coffee joined by David Linaburg on guitar.
We start at 2pm, end at 5 and play a lot of music in between! Come by, say hello!

And here are some more important dates for the calendar...

October 4th - Upstairs @ Rue de Jean:"Brainstorm"Art Show & Fundraiser to benefit the Eckman Family Fund 6-9pm
October 12th - Me with my Friends {Gerald, Kevin, Nathan & Ron} @ Modernisme Gallery- 8pm
October 25th - Dine & Drink In The Pink: pink pARTini party/fundraiser for the Charleston Breast Center
November 3rd - Celebrations of Stems & Clouds by Nathan Durfee
November 15th - EP RELEASE @ THEATRE 99!!!

Sea libre,
Leah

busy, busy, busy....as a little bee

2007-09-18T13:58:00.000-04:00

I told you this fall was shaping up to be a busy one, right? Well, it's been a busy WEEK, planning for the busy fall season and I am giddy with excitement for what's next! This weekend is a private party on Saturday, but then Sunday afternoon (9/23), David Linaburg and I will be at Kudu Coffee from 2-5pm. David is a fabulous person and very talented guitar player and it will be a nice change for the cooler weather. I really look forward to my dates at Kudu...they're just so relaxing and it makes for such a great atmosphere for the music I play. Come out, bring your friends....enjoy your Sunday, for the modest price of a cup of coffee.

There's an art opening on October 4th that's shaping up....more info on that soon. Tickets on sale soon for October 12th @ Modernisme Gallery. This one's going to be a great, acoustic vibe with new music and some new friends playing! The show will start at 8pm...so mark your calendars. On the "friends list" so far...Gerald Gregory (keys), Nathan Koci (flugelhorn + accordian), Kevin Hamilton (bass).

Did I mention that I'm planning to release my first 'Leah Suarez ' EP in November?! We'll celebrate the incredible artwork by Nathan Durfee on November 3rd at his solo show, Celebrations of Stems and Clouds at Modernisme Gallery and then we'll really throw down at Theatre 99 on Thursday, November 15th!! Again, I ask that you "Remember, remember the 15th of November." (yes, I know it's supposed to be the 5th, but work with me here.)

This month has been concentrated on the EP Release. I have been in hands-on production mode, from mixing and mastering with Quentin to writing liner notes and working with Nathan on all the graphics. We have our release date, so now it's just pumping out the work before our order deadline of October 1st. I am getting more and more excited, but I am definitely feeling the crunch. There's always more than you expect....and I LOVE IT! It will be "me" for the first time....and for this not being the original intention for the fall, it's coming out better than I could have ever imagined. We are SO close to getting all the puzzle pieces together. Now it's just the final touches.....I'll keep you posted and I just hope that you'll really make the effort to support our effort by being at Nathan's solo show on November 3rd and my EP Release on November 15th. All of the work Nathan has produced for this EP will be on view and for sale at his solo show. It's been an incredible creative adventure that I can't wait to share!

paz y amor siempre,
Leah

celebrating 1 year! iShow @ modernisme

2007-09-06T21:40:00.001-04:00

I hope to see you all this weekend at Modernisme's Anniversary Celebration! The iShow: You Are Where. This is really the first event for the fall and is yet another reason to celebrate. Gerald Gregory and I will be performing as a vocal/piano duo again, in a beautiful art gallery, surrounded by edgy, contemporary and accessible art! It's really a neat concept, with 6 of the gallery's 13 artists creating new artwork around a single concept. In a world where everything is compressed to make it more accessible to the masses, how has that shaped our society's identity...and even more so, our own identities? In response to that theme, we as musicians are taking an organic approach. Though we are just "reception musicians" for the evening, from 6pm-9pm by the way, Gerald will be playing a real, acoustic, upright piano and I will be using minimal amplification. It's not the mp3 version you are used to hearing compressed yet again to squeeze out of your laptop's speakers. It's real music by real musicians...with real instruments. :) Again, it's tomorrow, Saturday, September 8th @ Modernisme Gallery. Go HERE for more information...or just come by! 21 Magnolia Road in Avondale, Charleston. There will be an artist round table discussion that begins at 5pm. There really are some incredibly talented artists represented by Modernisme....I hope that you will come out and support the efforts of their creativity, imagination and visual voice. If you cannot make it this weekend, stop by another time...

In addition to this show, the full band will be performing on Sunday out at Palmetto Park for a Picnic sponsored by the Vineyard. It's going to be a lot of fun...it's free...it starts around 2:o0 and goes until about 5pm. It's only $1 to get into the park and then you can just come by and eat, drink and be merry. That will be me, Gerald Gregory on keys, David Linaburg on guitar and Nick Jenkins on drums.

Let's see....in other news...I'll have to write out those thoughts later. For now, let's concentrate on getting to Modernisme Gallery on Saturday! See you then!!! Take care of yourselves and each other!

Paz y Amor Siempre,
Leah

relaxing tunes for a sunday afternoon

2007-08-23T21:40:00.001-04:00

Enjoy a cup 'o' coffee, tea or tasty pasty at your favorite neighborhood coffee shop...meanwhile, we'll play some tunes to set the mood...and you, too, can find elephants, such as the one above, at Kudu Kitu, their gallery. This little guy sits on my desk in my studio, reminding me how beautiful all of those imperfections are. He's had an interesting life, I am sure. I hope to see some of you this Sunday...and if not, I expect to see you sometime this fall. There will be lots to choose from.

Leah Suarez
with Gerald Gregory on keys

Kudu Coffee
4 Vanderhorst Street, Downtown Charleston
2pm-5pm
kuducoffee.net

And don't forget to mark your calendars...

September 8th @ Modernisme Gallery - iShow: You Are Where
Group Show & Anniversary Reception
more info? go here....modernismegallery.com

October 12th - 8pm show @ Modernisme Gallery - details soon!

November 3rd - 6-9pm - Nathan Durfee presents...
Celebrations of Stems and Clouds
Solo Show Reception @ Modernisme Gallery

November 15th - you better be here....details soon!

In the meantime, I am diligently working behind the scenes on a few special little projects, soon to be announced! Stay tuned, stay real, stay in touch! Thank you for your support through email and for coming out!

Paz,
Leah

it's a date!

2007-08-10T01:12:00.000-04:00

remember, remember the fifteenth of november. 8pm @ theatre 99. charleston, south carolina. it's just where you need to be. stay tuned...more soon!

duo @ kudu - this sunday, july 29th

2007-07-23T06:55:00.000-04:00

photography by heather keller
poster layout and design by olive argyle

This Sunday I'm back at Kudu thanks to owner John Saunders. It'll be a duo gig with my friend and usual suspect, Gerald Gregory on keys. Be sure to visit with the friendly baristas and enjoy a cup of coffee, a fancy latte or try my favorite for the summer, Mango Tea! We start at 2pm and end at 5pm, and given the unbearable heat and humidity planned for this weekend, we will more than likely be inside. Kudu is located off of King and Vanderhorst Streets, in the heart of Downtown Charleston.

Hope you are enjoying this summer and hope to see you soon!

And on a not-so-side note - GO SEE MY FRIEND, JOY, starring in "The Search for Signs of Intelligent Life In The Universe," playing this weekend at the Footlight Players Theatre CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO & TO BUY TICKETS. She's incredible!

And while you're making it a fun-filled weekend of art, GO SEE THIS MOVIE.

still speechless about both...

My best wishes for you always,
Leah

For more information on Kudu Coffee, visit them at kuducoffee.net
For more on me and what is coming next, stay here - leahsuarezmusic.blogspot.com
or visit leahsuarez.com and myspace.com/leahsuarez

production mode

2007-07-13T14:38:00.000-04:00

This summer is dedicated to production and being productive. I have my hand in lots of upcoming projects and events and am looking forward to releasing my "Leah Suarez" EP. It will be my first recording released under my name, as opposed to the self-titled Toca Toca (band) EP released last year. I am also looking forward to releasing a single that will not be on the EP. Details are still being sorted out, but the the most exciting part at this stage of production is the artwork! Drummer and artist, Nick Jenkins will be featured as the cover artist for the single and artist, Nathan Durfee, will be creating the art and doing all graphic design for the EP! Nothing quite like original art for original music! Release dates for both are TBA, but will be in the not-so-distant future. I am looking to head back into the studio sometime in August to complete everything, but that is also kind of up in the air right now. Baby steps.....

muchas gracias

2007-07-09T11:31:00.001-04:00

A big THANK YOU to all who came out to the Jazz Vespers concert at the Circular Congregational Church! What a great venue! We had a lot of fun playing and as always, thanks to Susan Dunn and the Charleston Jazz Initiative for welcoming us and our music. Next up is Kudu Coffee, Downtown on Vanderhorst Street on July 29th. It will be a duo gig with myself and Gerald on keys. Lots of new music!! :)

I am using this summer as a bit of a "break" to gear up for the busy fall and winter and catch up...on a lot of things. For those of you who have inquired....I am officially postponing my travels for the summer. I will share more when the time is right. In the meantime, let me know how YOU are doing and I hope to see you soon!

Being inspired,
Leah

jazz vespers july 8th

2007-07-05T17:28:00.000-04:00

Hello Friends!

I will be performing as part of the Jazz Vespers Series, Downtown Charleston, at the Circular Congregational Church this Sunday, July 8th. If you have never attended a concert at this venue, let me tell you that it would be well worth the trip and parking Downtown. It's a great acoustic and listener friendly venue!

Joining me this Sunday will be Nathan Koci on accordian and piano and David Linaburg on guitar. The event starts at 6pm and lasts about an hour. The best part? It's FREE!

Hope to see you all soon and stay tuned to future events coming very soon! It is shaping up to be a productive fall. Thank you for all of your support!

Take Care,

Leah