In 2005, Mavis competed in the Sisters In Jazz segment of IAJE (International Assoc. of Jazz Educators). This was an international competition, where she received special recognition and honorable mention. In the summer of 2006, she competed for a space in the Centrum Jazz Festival in Port Townsend, Washington. She received a full scholarship and was placed in the highest level of participation as Semi-Pro. There she was taught under world reknown jazz vocalists Kurt Elling, Nancy King, and Dee Daniels. Just recently, she was selected to participate in the prestigious Betty Carter Straight Ahead Jazz Workshop. She was one of only 2 vocalist selected internationally. Mavis received private lessons and studied with such greats as Carmen Lundy, Curtis Fuller, Dr. Nathan Davis, Winard Harper, George Cables, Chip Jackson, Branford Marsalis, and Dr. Billy Taylor. Three of these performances can be viewed on the Millenium Stage performances of the Kennedy Center archives under Betty Carter Jazz Ahead 2007.
Mavis has done several theatrical projects as well. In 2003, she played Sarah Vaughan in the NCCU production of "Mama, I Want To Sing." After this, in 2005, Mavis was asked to be the vocal director as well as a principle role in the musical "EUBIE!". Upon completion of this task, Mavis was nominated to compete for the Irene Ryan Acting Scholarship. She was again asked to be the vocal director for the NCCU production of "Crowns" where she also had a principle role.
In July of 2007, Mavis was afforded the opportunity to work with the great Diane McIntyre at the American Dance Festival (ADF). She, paired with vocalist Ariene Reinhart, performed rare negro spirituals to accompany a reconstructed dance work.
A very active student, Mavis is a member of Tau Beta Sigma, National Honorary Band Sorority, Inc. As an undergraduate, she participated in the NCCU Jazz Ensemble, NCCU Vocal Jazz Combo, NCCU Touring Choir (Miss Choir 2006-07), IAJE student chapter, NATS student chapter (Vice Pres. 2003-04), MENC student chapter. She also held her place on the Dean’s List since 2004 and graduated Magna Cum Laude in the top 15% of her class.Seed Time & Harvest Fellowship is her church home. She has worked with many local choirs and currently continues to do so.Check out the website: www.swanvocals.com
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