Vocalist Clairdee swings and has an intimate, vulnerable way with a ballad. She can shout at will, revealing her gospel roots. Her masterly interpretation of lyrics is a gift aptly described by the inimitable Nancy Wilson, who said, “In the tradition of all great vocalists, Clairdee infuses each song with her own unique style while always remaining true to the song itself.” For this show, these comments go double, as Claidee is joined by her friend Ken Peplowski, who happens to be one of the world’s foremost jazz clarinetists. Ken’s brilliant swing and dazzling improvisations are the perfect companion to Clairdee’s soulful song interpretations. 

Accompanying Clairdee and Ken is the SJW 50/50 Jazz Orchestra, SJW’s egalitarian ensemble of women and men who are among the top jazz artists in the Bay Area. This swinging ensemble will be directed by Fred Berry, who for decades led and developed outstanding Jazz Orchestras as a faculty member at Stanford University and CSM. He earned his jazz trumpet credentials performing with artists such as Roscoe Mitchell, Count Basie, Tony Bennett, Benny Carter, Ray Charles, Natalie Cole, Joe Henderson, McCoy Tyner, and Nancy Wilson. He was musical director for the Northern California Louie Bellson Orchestra, is an original member of the Roscoe Mitchell Quartet — which became the Art Ensemble of Chicago.

This event is part of the 2023 Stanford Jazz Festival.  

Admission Information

• SJW MEMBERS: $35 – premium | $25 – reserved | $15 – Children (17 and under) & Students with Valid ID $10
• NON-MEMBERS: $43 – premium | $33 – reserved | $18 – Children (17 and under) & Students with Valid ID
• Note that Stanford University guidelines now state that masks are no longer required, but are strongly recommended. We encourage you to continue wearing masks for the comfort of our patrons, staff, and artists. Proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test is no longer required.