Geoff sits down with the award-winning jazz vocalist Anita Wardell.

In this intimate conversation, Anita shares how music became her sanctuary during a difficult childhood and continues to be her healing force while recovering from a stroke suffered 16 months prior. "Music was where I kind of got myself together," she reflects, describing how discovering jazz gave her focus and purpose at a crucial time in her life.

Anita reflects on the time she heard two students practicing Dizzy Gillespie’s ‘Birks’ Works’ through a classroom door at age 17, she knew immediately: "I want to do that for the rest of my life." This revelation would spark a journey from Adelaide, Australia to becoming one of the most respected jazz vocalists and educators in the UK.

The heart of the episode features Anita's masterclass on jazz vocal improvisation, demonstrating the methodical approach she's developed over 30 years of teaching. Beginning with roots, thirds, and fifths, she shows how understanding harmony creates the foundation for expressive improvisation. Her breakdown of scat syllables—using "doo" for downbeats, "ba" for upbeats, and "diddler" for triplets—offers fascinating insight into the vocabulary jazz singers develop to articulate their musical ideas.

Despite ongoing recovery challenges, Anita delivers a beautiful improvised performance of the 1940s standard ‘Autumn Leaves’ (accompanied by the Quartet app) showcasing her skill and resilience. Geoff observes Anita’s leg moving involuntarily during the performance—a powerful physical manifestation of music's neurological impact during her healing process.

From career highlights at Ronnie Scott's to her favourite jazz albums and chords, Anita's passion for music remains unwavering despite physical setbacks. As she prepares to return to Australia to continue her recovery, her parting sentiment captures the essence of a true artist: "I'm not a giver-upper... I'll just keep searching."

Whether you're a jazz vocalist looking to improve your improvisation, a musician interested in teaching methodology, or simply someone who finds inspiration in stories of artistic resilience, this conversation offers valuable insights and heartfelt moments that celebrate the healing power of music.

Presenter: Geoff Gascoyne
Series Producer: Paul Sissons
Production Manager: Martin Sissons
The Quartet Jazz Standards Podcast is a UK Music Apps production.