Barbara Knight

Based in the Cleveland region, jazz vocalist Barbara Knight issued her debut recording, Angel Eyes, alongside her working quartet in 2007. Her entry into jazz singing came somewhat later than most, prompted by an invitation to perform with the college jazz ensemble at Kent State. Following completion of her Voice and Music Education degree, she launched a 13-year partnership with the Harry Hershey Orchestra in 1980 that included a two-year run with the ensemble in the production Stompin' at the State. Knight has served as featured singer with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra since 1993. Additional notable work encompasses Midwest engagements with the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and the Famous Jazz Orchestra, along with regular guest appearances alongside the Cleveland Pops Orchestra. In 2001 she recorded Night and Day with the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra plus strings. The 2007 album Angel Eyes highlights both her vocals and her arrangements. She continues to appear with a quintet throughout Northeastern Ohio.