This was not the first time I’ve seen Jill Barber performing, but this was certainly the most enjoyable; playing to a small group that had assembled to attend the live auction and benefit concertt in support of the Ottawa Jazz festival.

Jill Barber has been performing for the past 10 years. Her unique voice and grace, with just a hint of plafulness on stage has captivated many and continues to endear her to anyone who listens. It is no surpirse that her performance at Jazzfest was a sold out event. Her ability to blend a slow, smoldering melody with upbeat tempos demonstrates the range of her art. Complementing the performance by  sharing details about her career between songs, the audience was bestowed with a wonderful evening. What stood out for me was the memorable rendition of Edit Piaf’s Sous le ciel de Paris from her upcoming french album, to be released in January, 2013.

The auction was hosted by CBC’s Alan Neal who did a fine job of entertaining while raising funds that will benefit programs centred around seven scholarships, education projects, workshops, and the popular Jazz Youth Summit.

December 6th, 2012. Jill Barber performs at the Archives Canada auditorium in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada as part of the live auction and benefit concert in support of local jazz programs.

December 6th, 2012. Alan Neal leads the auctions at Archives Canada in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada as part of the live auction and benefit concert in support of local jazz programs.