The Ladies Day Jazz Quartet is dedicated to celebrating the compositions of classic and contemporary jazz women. In their swinging, entertaining, and witty performances, they present the work of composers and lyricists such as Mary Lou Williams, Marian McPartland, Peggy Lee, Abbey Lincoln, Patricia Barber, Nelly McKay and many more, as well as their own compositions and collaborations.
Vocalist MJ Territo, the ensemble’s founder, says, “One day I happened to notice that women had written quite a few of my favorite songs. And I began to notice common themes. Sure, there are love songs–love is one of the great subjects of song. But there are also songs about resilience and self-reliance; songs about the power and wonder of nature; songs that cross the borders of our wide world; songs of family and friendship.” Territo also thought it would be fun to play these tunes with a group of crackerjack female musicians, so she put together the band and they began to build a repertoire which is now more than fifty songs strong.
The quartet’s critically-acclaimed album, “Ladies Day” was released in August 2017 with a CD release celebration at Club Bonafide.
mjterrito.com
"MJ Territo is a veteran singer who is very much a storyteller. With a calm delivery and ear for poetry, she sticks to the lyrics of songs while giving them a gentle swing.” – Scott Yanow, Downbeat
"Vocalist MJ Territo celebrates all things women on her ambitious and overdue Ladies Day. This is a collection of finely composed songs expertly delivered in a thoughtful and compelling production. Well done!” – C. Michael Bailey, All About Jazz
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhGlsDoSvp8
