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June April

YOU UNDERSTAND THE VERY FIRST TIME YOU HEAR HER VOICE. Soft yet intense. At times pretty and melodic; at times raw and urging. Her vocal tone instantly captivates you, like a person you just met and five minutes into the conversation you realize you’re kindred spirits. Her musings hearken to a rich tradition while fulfilling the promise of an innovative future. This God-given voice belongs to a gifted, energetic, woman from the village of Harlem - June April.

“I remember when I was 8 years old and there was a Jazz festival on 125th Street. It started early in the morning and I made sure I got there early to get up front. I was lost in the music. The harmony, melodies, improvisation and chemistry between the musicians transported me to another world. In fact, my family had gone home, without realizing I was still there. They came back and found me still absorbed in the experience.”

Her immersion into her craft led to Classical and Jazz music studies at Syracuse University, The Manhattan School of Music and the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College, where she received her Masters degree. Her journey continued, leading to opportunities to study or work with such Jazz luminaries as Lionel Hampton, Barry Harris, Ron Carter, Stefon Harris and Vanessa Rubin. She has performed at famous venues throughout the United States, Central America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East.

The seeds of her musical apprenticeship blossom richly on her full-length debut, “What Am I?” “I want to have a conversation about the complexities of life, and what truly satisfies the human soul.” Indeed, “What Am I?” presents brilliantly arranged hymns and vibrant, original material. While rooted in traditional Jazz, the project also draws influences from June April’s Costa Rican roots, Bluegrass, R&B and Gospel music.

“Tick, Tock” features an infectious Neo-Soul groove. “I used to teach in the NYC pubic schools and I thought about all the talent those kids have. I want them to use their time wisely so they can reach their potential.” The title track, “What Am I?” redefines the term “power ballad”. It is a soaring, deeply affecting examination of life; it’s true purpose and meaning. You will hear the question you’ve asked yourself time and time again. “Faith vs. Fear” is a joyous, musical feast filled with incredible, nourishing performances from some of the best young Jazz musicians in NYC.

“Hey, I’m not perfect and I don’t take myself so seriously. I laugh at myself sometimes when I make a mistake. It’s okay, God still loves us and we can move forward.” June April’s faith, passion and optimism are evident throughout this project. The artist-turned-business executive will be working the concert stage, radio airwaves and the Internet in support of her fledgling label. An avid vegetarian, she encourages her audience to explore the healthier slice of life on her website.

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85

Performance / Tour

June April in Concert November 20, 2004

June April in Concert November 20, 2004

Source: All About Jazz


121

Event

Spring Is Here - Vocalist June April In Concert

Spring Is Here - Vocalist June April In Concert

Source: All About Jazz

Spring is Here! Hanson Place Youth Ministries Presents In Concert Vocalist June April Releasing Her Debut CD, “Jazz Hymns" Featuring Saxophonist Courtney Fadlin and other Special Guests Sunday, May 16, 2004, 5:00 PM at the Hanson Place Seventh-day Adventist Church 88 Hanson Place (Corner of South Portland and Hanson Place) Brooklyn, NY ALL SEATS ARE FREE “June April Gardner's voice is sheerly beautiful; she has a wonderful freedom of voice and style. Neil Novelli, “The Post Standard." “'The Garden of ...

Primary Instrument

Vocals

Willing to teach

Intermediate to advanced

Credentials/Background

B.A. Music Performance, Syracuse University M.A. Music Performance, Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College Graduate Studies, Manhattan School of Music

Photos

Music

Recordings: As Leader | As Sideperson

What Am I?

Highlife Music Group
2007

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