Jazz singer-songwriter is making waves in the music scene. Recently, she performed at the prestigious 2023 Monterey Jazz Festival in California, where she had the honor of singing with the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra and participated in a smaller gala, where she performed for such musical luminaries as Herbie Hancock and Christian McBride. She’s also a Golden Flash. Preston is a senior at , majoring in music with a concentration in jazz studies.
Watch: Preston sings “September in the Rain” at The Bop Stop in Cleveland.
Recognized as a 2023 YoungArts Finalist and Silver Award Winner for Jazz-Voice, Preston was recently featured on . Her musical journey began as a child in Cleveland, where she discovered jazz through artists like Diana Krall. Now, at 19 years old, she tells Ideastream she is influenced by jazz greats such as Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Carmen McRae, and has evolved her style to incorporate elements of blues, ballads, pop and indie-rock. Her original compositions delve into weighty themes and contemporary issues, including bullying and the opioid crisis.
Despite her growing success, Preston maintains a humble perspective, emphasizing a commitment to music over ego. She attributes much of her development to mentors and programs like the Tri-C Jazz Fest Academy, with special recognition for Dominick Farinacci, whom she affectionately calls “the jazz father.”
As she wraps up her senior year at Kent State, Preston says she hopes to continue learning and possibly pursue music education.
Learn more about Kent State's School of Music.
Top photo: Ava Preston performs at Jazz at Lincoln Center - Dizzy’s Club in New York City.
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