“It should be noted that like Lester Young, Bill Evans, and other of the more lyrical players, Pamela York plays each melody with a singer's grace and vibrancy. She plays music rather than technique.” - Roger Crane
— L.A. Jazz Scene
Pamela York
Jazz Pianist
Canadian jazz musician Pamela York is a pianist, vocalist, and composer. A native of Nanaimo, British Columbia, Pamela graduated from The Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto and Berklee College of Music in Boston. Pamela uses vehicles for musical expression as varied as the blues, traditional hymns, and lesser known standards. In 2007, she won the Great American Jazz Piano Competition. In addition to appearing on numerous recordings as a side artist, Pamela boasts three albums of her own as a leader. Her first two CDs Blue York (2001) and The Way of Time (2006) showcase several original tunes, as well as her interpretations of celebrated jazz standards. Her 2012 release, Lay Down This World: Hymns and Spirituals, was a 2013 Downbeat Magazine editor’s pick. She tours nationally as a performer, clinician, and guest artist. Among her performances with dozens of jazz greats, Pamela has shared the stage with Conte Candoli, Joe LaBarbera, John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Lynn Seaton, Roseanna Vitro, Diane Schuur, and Andre Hayward. In 2020 Pamela moved to the Chicago area.