ZOE GILBY
Zoe Gilby is a young jazz singer, from the North East of England with a family background in jazz. Zoe's father is Mike Gilby who has worked professionally as a jazz trumpet player and arranger for over 40 years
"Jazz has always been a part of my life. I have had this passion passed on to me from my father, his influence has played a huge part of my musical development and continues to do so".
Zoe's interest in singing and jazz took shape at an early age. She studied music for two years at Newcastle College and later developed her sound at Fiona Duncan's Vocal Jazz Workshop in Glasgow. Zoe's influences include Billie Holliday and Ray Charles.
Her professional career started back in 2000, working with a variety of musicians in many different venues across the North East. During these formative years Zoe began to explore and build a repertoire which now stands at well over one hundred jazz standards.
In 2006 Zoe made her international debut at the Cork Jazz Festival, performing with great Irish saxophonist Gay McIntyre. This well-respected musician (who worked with Nat King Cole) invited Zoë to join him and pianist son Paul McIntyre at the Derry Jazz Festival in 2007.
Zoe recorded her debut album 'Now That I am Real' with arrangements by drumming and arranging legend Tony Faulkner with contributions from some of the country's finest musicians. This outstanding CD features Zoë's interpretations of 'My Heart Belongs to Daddy', 'Just Squeeze Me' and 'I Got It Bad'. It also includes classics such as 'In The Heat of the Night' and 'West Coast Blues'.
"I have just finished recording my debut album "Now That I am Real" The title reflects a particular stage in my life and my music at the moment. My album will be released soon and I can't wait".
