Dear Ms. Dearie - the music of Blossom Dearie

Pianist and vocalist Dawn Clement brings her tribute project Dear, Ms. Dearie to Black Cat, celebrating the understated brilliance of jazz legend Blossom Dearie. This intimate performance follows the April 2026 release of Clement's album honoring Dearie's songbook, featuring the same stellar quartet that recorded the project.

Clément is a joyful and formidable voice in modern jazz, praised by DownBeat for piano work that's "always ready with the lyricism or structure the moment needs." She's performed with Jane Ira Bloom, Ron Miles, René Marie, and Julian Priester, and appears on säje's GRAMMY-nominated debut album. Her recent release Delight (2025) featured Buster Williams and Matt Wilson in what she calls a "legacy trio."

The project draws from Clement's deep affection for Blossom Dearie's swing, humor, and quiet authority at the piano. Rather than exploratory reimaginings, Dear, Ms. Dearie turns toward the song itself—intimate, grounded, and quietly swinging. The arrangements were crafted specifically for this exceptional group of musicians, produced by drummer Matt Wilson.

Joining Clement are bassist John Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton, artists whose "sound, feel, and generosity define what it means to play this music at the highest level." Guitarist Steve Kovalcheck brings warmth and clarity, adding a lyrical voice to the ensemble.

Expect an evening that honors the elegance of Dearie's songbook while allowing the music to breathe in the present moment. This is both tribute and conversation—with Blossom Dearie, with the jazz tradition, and with the artists who continue to carry it forward. Clement serves as Associate Professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver and Artistic Director of the Centrum Jazz Workshop, remaining a vital presence in both Rocky Mountain and Pacific Northwest music communities.