Russell Fielder

Bass Baritone Jazz vocal stylist Russell Fielder has been part of the Rochester, NY jazz scene for over twenty years. He studied voice and music theory at the Hochstein School of music and honed his skills and talent via community musical theater productions and sitting in at local jam sessions. His first gig was with pianist Jim Gala and his trio at Lloyd''s restaurant. He was the featured vocalist with the trio from 1987- 1998 playing at such venues as Hilly''s Cafe, Pomodoro''s, The Rochester Club, and Le Jazz Hot Cafe, to name a few.

In 1990, Russell teamed with pianist George Perkins to form the duet/ensemble "The Jazz Interpreters". The mission of this collaboration was to showcase and preserve the rich cultural treasure of traditional and classical jazz music through vocal and instrumental presentation. Performing at numerous local events including private functions, tribute shows, festivals, concerts, and night clubs, The Jazz Interpreters also produced and promoted a cabaret style jazz series entitled "Under A Blanket Of Blue" in conjunction with RAPA theatre. These shows which featured music, dance, poetry, and song were well received and supported by the community.

Since 1994 Russell has been performing as free lance singer and has been afforded the opportunity to play with some of the areas best musicians at event through out the region. Venues played include Harry''s Bar and Grill, Milestones, Merchants Grill, Taste Of New York Culinary Art Center, Woodcliff Lounge. Montage Music Hall and many others.

Russell has also been involved in musical theatre for many years performing in such shows as Ain't Misbehavin, Sophisticated Ladies, Dream Girls, and most recently, Smokey Joes Cafe. While Russell''s voice has often been compared to Lou Rawls, he has been greatly influenced and inspired by a number of artist and musicians. He list Duke Ellington, Bing Crosby, Carmen McCrae, Sarah Vaughn, Nat King Cole, and Billy Eckstine as his favorite.

Russell had his first and only CD produced by pianist Bobby Dibaudo in 1990 entitled "Introducing Russell Fielder". He is currently in the process of putting out a second recording which should be release in the fall of 2009.