Patricia Barber

Chicago’s Patricia Barber is considered by many the finest pianist and vocalist in jazz today. Her approach is influenced both by her classical training and her jazz heritage. The result mixes velvet intimacy with a cerebral approach to songwriting where the lyrics sting with satiric wit. With seven records to her credit-ranging from Cafe Blue and Modern Cool to her latest, Verse-Barber encompasses whimsy, edginess and romance in her songs. Technically assured and effortlessly hip, she is accompanied by Eric Montuka drums, Neal Alger guitar and Michael Arnopol bass. Barber has already made two knockout appearances at JazzFest: don’t miss out this time! “She is, for my money, the best jazz performer currently working on the planet.” - Esquire