Vaughnette

It isn't hard to believe how quickly audiences sit up and take notice whenever Vaughnette takes center stage and starts to sing. Her rich, warm, earthy tones caressingly draw you in, as she delivers effortlessly on some of the most timeless standards and ballads. When it comes to jazz, Vaughnette fits right into the groove. It is, after all, the music that deeply inspires her.

Hailing from La Brea in the south of Trinidad, Vaughnette debuted on the jazz circuit at the Steelpan and Jazz Festival, performing as a guest vocalist with virtuoso pannist Len "Boogsie" Sharpe. She next graced the stage later that same year at the San Fernando Jazz Festival, appearing with visionary Carlton Alexander and the Coalpot Band. Audiences at the Sando Jazz were also treated to her performances alongside Botswanan flugelhorn player Socca Moruakgomo. Many still recall her sunny session at Jazz on the Beach, Tobago, which kept her audience buzzing long after she had left the stage. Clearly, this La Brea lady was developing an impressive fan base!

Never one to take her talent and artistry for granted, Vaughnette continued to perfect her craft, studying voice and jazz performance with some of music's finest. Her focus and hard work paid dividends in 2008 when she became one of few Caribbean nationals ever to be awarded a scholarship to attend the prestigious Berklee Five-Week Summer Performance Program.

Fast forward to 2010, and Vaughnette is heaping praise on individuals like Gabrielle Goodman and Janice Pendarvis (Berklee College) and Dominique Eade (New England Conservatory) for guidance in taking her vocal abilities to the next level. Her list of appearances keeps growing as she showcases her vocal mettle.

With vocals evoking a distinct Caribbean charisma and a personality that embraces you like a longtime friend, Vaughnette continues to charm her listeners wherever she performs. When she isn't weaving her magic on stage, Vaughnette works as an occupational health and safety professional at a petroleum company.