Multi talented arranger and vocalist, Gracie Jay has performed and recorded with artists including Cyrille Aimee, Nicholas Payton, Camille Thurman, Jamison Ross and more. Her written works have been performed by groups including the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Next Generation Big Band, and the New Guard Big Band. Part of a rare, niche category of talented female vocalists, Gracie is a powerful force on stage, simultaneously writing and arranging for the same large-ensembles she masterfully sings for.
In addition to her success as an arranger and jazz vocalist, Gracie works on a number of side projects including her role as the lead singer for the Colorado-based band, J-Calvin, Public Opinion of North Carolina, and of course her own solo and group projects. Hired for her diverse artistic contributions, Gracie is known for elevating every group she’s invited to. Performances with these groups include the Tuscon Jazz Festival, French Quarter Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival and more.
Music education has always been a part of Gracie’s career. She actively hosts classes and workshops, and directs choirs and large ensembles. Gracie dedicated three years to working with young musicians as the music director at Academy Del Sol, a K-8 charter school. She recently served as an adjunct professor at Loyola University of New Orleans.
Gracie received her Bachelors degree in Vocal Performance and Professional Music from Berklee College of Music. In 2020, she received her Masters degree in Arranging and Composition from North Carolina Central University under the tutelage of Joey Calderazzo, Branford Marsalis, and Brian Horton.