THERE'S a lot of very routine jazz singing out there these days, but Tina May remains the most expressive and technically gifted jazz singer on the UK scene - and what a treat to know we have the opportunity to see her perform in Pembrokeshire when she appears at the Torch Theatre on July 18 to perform her tribute to that legendary singer, Edith Piaf. Tina May is currently among the 'hot property' list of British jazz singers and she's extremely versatile. She has crystal clear diction (in French as well as in English), immacualate pitch and a fine, expressive voice, which she certainly knows how to use to full effect. But she's not just a singer, she's a musician, who has her roots in Wales. Tina May started exploring and developing her jazz sensibilities at University College, Cardiff. As a student of French, Tina knew she would have the opportunity of living in France for a year as part of her degree course. She chose to study in Paris and began her apprenticeship in jazz when, by chance, she met up with some aspiring young music students, who invited her to 'faire un boeuf' - have a jam with them. These musicians were Pascal Gaubert and Patrick Villanueva - who recorded with Tina on the Live in Paris album nearly 20 years later. In her sparkling performance at the Torch, Tina brings to life the music of France's most beloved entertainer, national icon and musical legend, Edith Piaf and featuring Piaf's most famous songs, including La Vie en Rose, Hymne a L'Amour, Milord and Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien. Edith Piaf - A Celebration of a Legend, can be seen at the Torch Theatre, Milford Haven, on Friday, July 18. Tickets may be purchased by calling the theatre Box Office on 01646 695267, or reservation requests made through their website at http://www.torchtheatre.co.uk">www.torchtheatre.co.uk. It's also worth visiting Tina May's own website to take a look at what she's up to - http://www.tinamay.com">www.tinamay.com.
