The 17-member Vermont Jazz Ensemble has been swinging its way through the green mountain state for over forty eight years! Playing an eclectic mix of beloved standards and contemporary compositions, VJE delights audiences in Vermont and beyond with their exciting solos, seasoned ensemble work, and classic big band sound.
Born and raised in Queens, NY, Lara Cwass is a dynamic talent, with an expressive and soulful approach to her main instrument, guitar. As a rich and melodic vocalist and guitarist, Lara fully embraces the diverse worlds of jazz fusion, blues, soul, funk, and other improvisatory styles. Lara has had the great honor of sharing stages with Allman Brothers members Oteil Burbridge, Butch Trucks, Jaimoe, and Jack Pearson, as well as other pillars of the jam scene, Eric Krasno, Luther Dickinson, Scott Metzger, Brandon “Taz” Niederauer, Jackie Greene, Mike Gordon, Nikki Glaspie, John Medeski, and Rob Compa, to name a few.
Linda Bassick is a longtime early educator, musician, member of Steady Betty and the sixties tribute band, Mellow Yellow. Linda hosts weekly sing-alongs in Chittenden County and has been singing and working with young children since the 1980’s. Linda Bassick will play a set of family friendly and lively tunes from their latest album Maple’s Busy Morning along with other family favorites.
Guitarist Michael-Louis Smith (MLS) will perform selections from his catalogue of original compositions and favorites with long-time bandmates Stacy Dillard (saxophone), Ismail Lawal (drums) and Mike Roninson (bass). These like minds and sprits have crafted a unique sound, style and singular vision from 20 + years of performing together and they deliver a powerhouse live show that includes virtuosic soloists, cutting edge, compositions, and telepathic band interplay.
Michael-Louis Smith - guitar/vocals
Stacy Dillard - saxophone
Mike Roninson - bass
Ismail Lawal - drums
High Summer’s sound is a visceral groove.
Original compositions are complimented by well-curated covers that highlight the group’s dynamic musical exploration over a deep-pocket rhythmic foundation, born from years of collaboration in some of Vermont’s finest bands.
Strong horns layer with the golden voice of Miriam Bernardo, with rich melodies of keys and strings built over a rock solid rhythm section.
This deep groove outfit is composed of long-time members of the Burlington musical community, who are current or former members of groups such as Steady Betty, Afinque, Michelle Sarah Band, Mal Maiz, Japhy Ryder, Myra Flynn’s FLYNN, Barika, and many others.
