NASHVILLE, TN — Vocalist Connye Florance is among the most popular and beloved artists in either the local or regional jazz community. The longtime favorite is returning to the Nashville Jazz Workshop this weekend, this time doing a special program. It’s the “Modern Standards Project” on October 2. The evening will be built around a classic collection of songs since the ‘60s — reimagined with addition to the Great American Songbook in mind and delivered with the “velvet & wine” jazz flavors that have become her signature.
Though a native of Greensboro, North Carolina, Florance has performed around the city for so long (since 1986) that it’s widely assumed by many that she’s always been a Nashville resident. Her versatility is evident by the fact that Florance has performed in professional theatrical productions, jazz rooms, and concert halls alike. Her career credits include a Nashville Grammy (NAMMY) nomination for Album of the Year (“Turn My Heart”), a Jazz Vocalist of the Year honor, Southern Artistry’s “Esteemed Southern Artist” endorsement, and the Nashville Jazz Workshop’s 2013 Heritage Award. Florance has performed on and off Broadway, toured with Columbia Artists, and with her one-woman show. She has shared stages with a variety of notable artists, including Randy Brecker and Kirk Whalum, and been a contributor to more than 30 recordings.
Another title that she holds is educator, as Florance has been just as active in that field. She’s had more than two decades of various teaching experiences. This includes stints with the Tennessee Arts Commission, Tennessee Performing Arts Centers H.O.T. programming for schools, Nashville Jazz Workshop, Music for Seniors and NAZA.
Florance has also recorded commercials, supplied the voice of WB for multiple Warner Bros. jingles, and served as a background singer for Elton John and Tammy Wynette. She hosted an educational PBS series and maintained an active screen career that includes appearances in “The Client,” “Proud Heart,” and “Existo.” She has appeared on BET and performed at the Karamu Jazz Festival 2000 while holding a regular engagement at the Bluewind in Nashville.
Florance’s concert begins at 7:30 p.m. The Jazz Workshop is located at 1012 Buchanan Street.
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