Dear Ms. Dearie - the music of Blossom Dearie

Pianist, vocalist, and composer Dawn Clement brings her heartfelt tribute to jazz legend Blossom Dearie to Black Cat, celebrating the April 2026 release of her album Dear, Ms. Dearie. This project represents a departure from Clement's more exploratory work, turning toward the song itself with intimate, grounded arrangements that honor Dearie's understated brilliance—her swing, humor, and quiet authority at the piano.

Clement is a formidable voice in modern jazz, known for her distinctive sound and boundless versatility that bridges lyricism and invention. As DownBeat notes, "The revelation is Dawn Clement's piano, always ready with the lyricism or structure the moment needs." She has 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 a "legacy trio" with Buster Williams and Matt Wilson.

Joining Clement is an exceptional ensemble featuring jazz luminaries Jeff Hamilton on drums and John Clayton on bass—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 band. The project was produced by drummer Matt Wilson and arranged with care and intention, shaped specifically for this group of musicians.

Dear, Ms. Dearie honors the elegance of Blossom Dearie's songbook while allowing the music to breathe in the present. Drawn to Dearie's swing, humor, and understated brilliance, this tribute is both an homage and a conversation—with Blossom Dearie, with the tradition, and with the artists who continue to carry it forward. Expect quietly swinging interpretations that capture the intimate essence of Dearie's artistry through the lens of contemporary masters.

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.