The Freight presents Vocal Jazz Open Mic—an evening that gives vocalists (including you!) an opportunity to step into the spotlight, backed by pianist & composer Ellen Hoffman.

Here's what singers should know: solo/duo/trio/a cappella, all voices and all styles are welcome. Jazz, blues, doo-wop and be-bop, Broadway or boogie . . . Stephen Sondheim or Stevie Wonder . . . Little Richard or Susan Boyle! A swing tune or a Sting tune, or a song you wrote last month: it's all good. Whether you are a professional singer, a beginner, or somewhere in between, Ellen will help you sound your best, with or without written music.

Ellen has appeared at jazz festivals across the country. She has performed with many artists, including Tuck & Patti, Linda Ronstadt, Linda Tillery, Mark Murphy, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Freight favorites Oak, Ash & Thorn, and countless others. She directs the Berkeley Broadway Singers, and has written extensively for Oakland East Bay Symphony. Ellen also has a long history of inspiring and encouraging singers at open mics at Pete Escovedo's Club, Anna's Jazz Island, and the Berkeley City Club.

Visit Ellen's website