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Artist
Anita Wardell
12+ albums
jazzfemale vocalistsjazz vocalvocal jazzFemale Voices
about
Jazz vocalist Anita Wardell has been acclaimed for the unique artistry she brings to scat and be-bop singing. Raves from peers and critics alike have cemented her reputation as one of Britain 's finest vocalists. Born in Guildford, UK, Anita emigrated to Australia with her family as child. Enraptured by movie musicals on TV, she soaked up the classics by Rodgers and Hammerstein and Cole Porter. Equipped with a portable tape player, she would record the songs off the set and listen to them countless times. She often explored her father's collection of big band albums by Duke Ellington, Count Basie and many more. During her teens, works by the likes of Clifford Brown, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker exposed her to the complexities of modern jazz while she learned her vocal craft from greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Mark Murphy, Carmen McRae, Betty Carter and Jon Hendricks. Attending Adelaide University in South Australia, Anita worked toward a performance in jazz and improvised music and worked regularly on the Australian jazz circuit. Performing with a host of local and international artists, including American saxophonist Richie Cole at the Kiama Jazz Festival and supporting the legendary Sarah Vaughan at the Sydney Opera House, her classroom studies were supplemented by real-life experience. Her recording career began when she joined the Adelaide Connection, formed in 1979-80. Founded by Adelaide native John McKenzie, who directed the group until the early 90s, the Connectio
