THE ARTS COUNCIL SMITHGALL ARTS CENTER 8PM (doors to the venue open at 7:00PM)

Jazz vocalist Karla Harris has captivated audiences for over three decades, performing at prestigious events from the Sarasota Jazz Festival to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Notably awarded a Jazz Road grant in 2022, she is also an artist-in-residence at Kennesaw State University, teaching Applied Vocal Jazz. Karla’s artistry combines expansive vocals with emotional depth, earning praise for her impeccable phrasing and ability to harmonize with her band.

Her love for music began in her St. Louis childhood, where she performed early on and honed her craft with the Gateway Jazz Ensemble. After relocating to Portland’s vibrant jazz scene, she collaborated with renowned musicians and became a staple at local venues. Her discography includes the well-received albums Twice As Nice, Karla Harris Sings the Dave and Iola Brubeck Songbook, and Certain Elements, showcasing her evolution as a songwriter and artist. Her most recent project, Moon to Gold, features a return to jazz standards, demonstrating her enduring connection to this uniquely American art form.