UP & DOWN

Connie is a vocalist, arranger, and songwriter based in New York City. Often noted for her distinctive tone and emotional sincerity, she brings a deeply personal voice to the tradition of straight-ahead jazz—honoring its legacy while keeping the sound present and alive.

Since moving to New York, Connie has quickly embedded herself in the city’s jazz community, performing with notable musicians including Richie Vitale—formerly of Frank Sinatra’s band—and award-winning pianist Sarah Cion, among others. She is a regular presence at the city’s jazz institutions, frequently attending sessions at Smalls and Mezzrow, and bringing her voice to intimate venues across the city.

Classically trained on piano from the age of seven, Connie found her true musical direction upon discovering the Great American Songbook, drawing inspiration from vocalists such as Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Nancy Wilson, Carmen McRae, and Betty Carter. While rooted in jazz, her musical sensibilities extend into R&B, soul, and folk.

Prior to NYC, Connie studied under Living Legend of Jazz awardee Elena Gilliam and performed extensively throughout the Los Angeles area. Highlights include opening for Grammy Award–winner Bill Cunliffe at The Muckenthaler Cultural Center and collaborating with respected artists such as Edmund Velasco and Mark Massey.