Who We Are

Le Jazu is an eclectic string quintet composed of seasoned Bay Area musicians based in Oakland CA.  While the instrumentation mimics the of the classic Reinhardt/Grappelli groups , their focus on vocal jazz and their collective background in jazz, manouche, blues and soul delivers a unique sound and feel to the band.

 Le Jazu's favorite music comes from the jazz greats of the 20th century.  They perform music written or originally performed by the best: eg. Fats Waller, Cole Porter, Bessie Smith, and even a little Duke Ellington, Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra.  In addition to the Great American Songbook, their tastes run wide: They love the music of Django, New Orleans, Latin jazz artists such as Luis Bonfa and Consuelo Velazquez, and even interpret numbers by "outsiders" such as Dan Hicks, the Squirrel Nut Zippers and Bob Dylan among others. 

 

Kathleen Leake             Vocals and Percussion

Nadav Skloot                 Violin

Mark Gill                          Guitar, Saxophone

Corwin Booth                Guitar, Percussion

Rick McFarland             Upright Bass    

Testimonial

Le Jazu have performed many times at our winery. Our patrons love the playlist, the panache, and the vibe of this not-well-enough-known ensemble. A class act with a fine balance of instrumentals and vocals, Le Jazu brings the swing and the joy. They are also a pleasure to work with. Book this Band! ” - Dennis Hayes. Umbriaso Wines @ Treasure Island Wines.

Press Photos

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Live Music Sample

Please listen to a medley of songs from our Treasure Island Wines gig on Feb. 11, 2023 at the bottom of the screen.

 

You may also listen to the medley with photos from various gigs by watching the embedded YouTube video.

Inquiries

Please use the form below, or email Rick directly at lejazuband@gmail.com.