Cécile McLorin Salvant performs unique interpretations of unknown and scarcely recorded jazz and blues compositions. She focuses on a theatrical portrayal of the jazz standard and composes music and lyrics, which she also sings in French, her native language, as well as in Spanish. After Cecile won the 2010 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition, the jazz world’s most prestigious contest, the buzz began immediately. 

“Listening to Cécile sing was simply delightful,” says Ed Arrendell, manager of Wynton Marsalis, who immediately took her on as a client. “She sang with poise, sophistication, humility, and a sweet soulfulness. I knew she was special.” Her dazzling 2013 Washington Performing Arts debut was the talk of the fall season. We can’t wait to welcome her back.

This performance is supported in part by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. Washington Performing Arts performances at Sixth & I are made possible by the Abramson Family Foundation and by an anonymous gift in appreciation of Douglas Wheeler’s continuing efforts on behalf of Washington Performing Arts.