Jazz, wine and a view – another classy celebration of music and friends – will take place this Saturday, February 4. After various successful events, jazz lovers will once again enjoy sweet sounds and smooth wine at the new rooftop lounge at the Commodore Suites from 8:00pm onwards.
This time, famous saxophone player Connis Vanterpool will be joined by the legendary vocalist La-Vaune Henry, Michael Wilson on the guitar, Chris Sergeant on the drums and Wilky Souklaye on the bass.
As usual, the host with the most is Connis Vanterpool, St. Maarten’s most famous saxophonist – and a graduate of Berklee College of Music. The talented musician, who currently plays at various public venues and private events on St. Maarten, started his music career in 1992, interning at various studios such as Crescent Moon, South Beach Studios and International Sound in Miami, Florida.
La-Vaune Henry, who will be performing with him on Saturday, told the Out N About all about her musical career and passion for singing. The singer was born and raised on St. Maarten and followed her passion from a young age:
“My amazing mother knew early on that I had a natural talent for singing. She allowed me to explore various musical styles, and so I developed a deep love for music after joining a gospel choir, Methodist Young Adult Choir, and later the Deo Gloria Chorale Choir of the Seventh Day Adventist Church where my passion for classical music grew immensely,” she says.
After completing her secondary education at St. Maarten Academy, La-Vaune continued her studies in music at the Conservatory of Music in Rotterdam, The Netherlands: “During my time in the Netherlands, I met a great mentor, Ms. Myrna Njiokiktjien, who guided me through my studies.” After completing her education in the Netherlands, LA-Vaune received an ambassadorial scholarship from Rotary International to study at the College Conservatory of Music in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Although she studied classical singing for many years, La-Vaune says she enjoys singing many genres such as jazz. For example, she performed with Cedric Dandare at the North Sea Jazz, Curacao Jazz festival and more.
When asked what we can expect from her this year, La-Vaune says she will be making more time for her passion: “My daughters are all grown now, so I have the time to make music with amazing musicians on St. Maarten,” she explains.
The singer is looking forward to a great jazz & wine night. “Connis makes us musicians feel so comfortable, so free. Music should simply happen. At the event, I plan to have fun with my friends and sing the night away!”
The Jazz, Wine and a View event with Connis & Friends will take place this Saturday, February 4, at the Commodore Suites above Market Garden in Simpson Bay. The doors open at 8:00pm and tickets cost $20. For tickets and more information, call +1 (721) 522-0518 or pass by either of the Van Dorp locations. See you there!
