Kristin Berardi's High 5

Historical article recovered from a Wayback capture dated 2018-02-24.

Vocalist, composer & educator, Kristin Berardi is from Sydney, Australia. Recently she placed 1st in Montreux Jazz Festival’s Shure International Vocal Competition, July 2006, and 3rd in the 2005 Australian National Jazz Vocal Competition. During 2004 and 2005 she spent time studying and recording in New York City with such people as Kenny Werner, Jim Pugh, David Binney and Ingrid Jenson. She is on casual staff at the Australian National University in Canberra, and in the rural country town of Mackay, Queensland, at their Conservatorium of Music. She has performed in New York, Germany and continues to perform within Australia at Jazz festivals, and at jazz venues.

One of Australia’s finest pianists Tony Gould said of Kristin, “she is a very special musician whose voice has a quality of exquisite beauty. This seems to come from deep within the sound of her voice, from the soul if you like. When she sings there is no hint of the all too common ‘cultivated’ sound, but things which embody the best qualities in a musician, the most important apart from the obvious musical ones, being honesty and integrity.” (Australian Pianist Tony Gould)

1. JEFF TAIN WATTS – Jazz Gallery NYC 2004

The first time I saw Jeff Tain Watts live - I was lining up outside the Jazz Gallery, NYC and could hear the group - well, mainly Tain outside! It was the Yosvani Terry Group, with amazing young guitarist Mike Moreno. I love Tain’s intensity, commitment, and how he doesn’t mind to show you that he enjoys playing!!!!(he smiles a lot!) That was in 2004, NYC, USA

2. DARREN PERCIVAL – Bangalow Jazz Festival, 2006

Doing his solo show, I was totally blown away at this amazing musician’s feel, passion, and beautiful instrument - his rich and unique voice. His honesty touches your heart. Mr Percival was truly inspiring.

3. DAN WEISS WITH DAVID BINNEY GROUP – The 55Bar, in NYC 2004

This guy has incredible groove, intensity and is just an amazing musician!

4. BARNEY MCALL – Wangaratta Jazz Festival 2005

This was the first time I’d seen Barney play, although I had begun listening to him a few years earlier. His band was incredible - just to name a few - Shannon Barnett (tromb) Nash Lee (guit) Jamie Oehlers (tenor)!!!! The music was beautiful, and every musician on the stage was a master at his/her craft!

5. 20TH CENTURY DOG – The Hippo, Canberra 2006

Cameron Undy, Simon Barker, Gerard Masters, Carl Dewhurst, and Matt Keagan just tore this place apart musically speaking! It was incredible!!!