I returned to my old stomping grounds last weekend to sing with the University of North Texas Jazz Singers in a concert honoring our musical director (also an amazing arranger, all-around musician, and general cool cat), Paris Rutherford. Paris is retiring this spring, and of course, he wanted to go out with a bang. So, he invited all of the Jazz Singers alumni to sing in a couple of numbers, including his incredible a cappella arrangement of “My Funny Valentine.” All I can say is WOWEE! The whole weekend was a whirlwind of rehearsals and get-togethers with friends both new and old. The sheer chops these fellow musicians have, what an amazing thing to be around again! We had a great time, and took a lot of good photos and videos (more to come).
To top it all off, Paris invited me to sing on a small group number called “Splanky” and I don’t mind saying, we swung the hell out of that chart! Not only was the rhythm section smokin’, but the group was made up of some of the top singers from UNT, including my former bandmates Brandon Pedigo and Cathy Jensen-Hole. And as if that weren’t enough, Paris also gave me the honor of letting loose like a trumpet player who ate some bad meat. Here’s a picture of me getting down during the concert on May 2. What a night! It was so much fun and a slap-in-the-face reminder of why I love jazz music so much! I will never stop singing. Thank you for that, Paris.
Kathi Funston performs with the UNT Jazz Singers on May 2, 2009
Tonight my group performed at Java Joe’s in Yorba Linda as part of their a cappella night known as Javapella. We were invited as special guests to sing with two local Orange County groups. It was an hour-long trek to the OC from LA, but the good music and appreciative crowd made it worthwhile!
In Transit, my a cappella vocal jazz group, is appearing live at the Classic Choir Annual Christmas Concert at St. Augustine’s in Culver City on Saturday, December 1, 2007 @ 7:30 PM.
Here’s a pic of me with Melissa Pontanilla, our awesome alto, after the concert.
What a busy year it’s been so far! I’m rehearsing with former Taffeta co-stars in preparation for my upcoming show, The Chantillys. We’re rehesarsing 6 days a week, and I have to admit, my back is starting to feel the pain from all the dancing! Throw in the singing on top of that, and my lung capacity is increasing exponentially!!
I’ve also been busy doing vocal sessions around town. I recently worked with Chantillys musical director Paul Taylor, and television composer Dick DeBenedictis, who scored groovy TV shows from the 70s like Matlock, Columbo, Perry Mason, and Hawaii Five-O.
Most recently, I did a session with composer Brian Woodbury where I recorded lead vocals as surfer chick Marina in his original show Killa Vanilla.
Reherasals are underway for The Chantillys, opening March 16th at the West Valley Playhouse. I play Peggy, one of four fabulous singing sisters in search of a new vocal sound. Join us as we sing and dance our way through some of the greatest hits from the 40s all the way through today’s pop music!
Show runs March 16th through April 22nd @
The West Valley Playhouse
Friday and Saturday nights at 8pm
Sundays at 2:30pm
(No show April 8th)
We got a rave review, and the public has spoken. Back by popular demand, The Taffetas run has been extended through September 17th. Come and see Peggy, Kaye, Donna, and Cheryl in their fabulous dresses and hairstyles LIVE on stage at the West Valley Playhouse. Call (818) 884-1907 for tickets and showtimes.
The Los Angeles Times gives a thumbs up “recommended” review to The Taffetas.
“Kathi Funston gives enthusiastic Peggy straight-faced humor and potent chops…When the charming stars…tackle their vocals and director-choreographer Noel Britton’s frisky moves in crisp harmony, the limits of the chiffon-thin concept dissolve.”
West Valley Playhouse proudly presents four dazzling starlets from Muncie, Indiana who are about to sing and dance their way into America’s living room!
THE TAFFETAS
Show runs August 11th through September 10th
West Valley Playhouse
7242 Owensmouth Ave.
Canoga Park, CA
Join the fun as my a cappella group, In Transit, performs at a free outdoor carnival in Culver City. The day will be filled with yummy food, fun games, and fabulous music as we perform a full set of jazz, pop, and R&B favorites.
JAZZ AT THE FIESTA
Sunday, June 11th
In Transit takes the stage @ 2pm
St. Augustine’s
10195 Washington Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
