Diploma in Jazz Performance-CPIT CHCH NZ
Diploma of Arts/Music-UNSW
Born in the UK, Jo was raised in New Zealand where she was introduced to theatre at the age of 11. She appeared in many theatrical productions and this gave her a solid grounding for her future musical career. Throughout her teenage years, Jo was involved with choral groups, choirs and other musical projects.
At 18 she discovered jazz and after studying at the Christchurch Polytechnic School of Jazz graduated with an A Grade Diploma in Jazz Performance. That same year she was presented with the Jazz Soloist of the South Island Award. This granted her a trip to Wellington to undertake her first professional recording of Jazz Standards via the National Radio program titled First Time Out.
Jo featured in a lead role in The Official Tribute to the Blues Brothers stage show, and landed a featured role in the hit TV series Hercules filmed in Auckland, New Zealand. She went on to study all forms of entertainment including dance, stage/television acting and vocal technique and attained a Diploma of Arts in Music through attending the University of Sydney and Conservatorium of Music.
Jo’s first single Closest Thing to Heaven was released through Warner Bros Music NZ, which reached number 5 on the New Zealand pop charts.
For many years Jo worked with New Zealand Idol vocal coach, Suzanne Lynch, in both live shows and recording sessions. She’s since been in demand as a session singer for many jingles, radio and television commercials, ABC TV promo, Kids TV shows, and has recorded with many well-known Australian and NZ musicians.
Since moving to Sydney in 1998 Jo has built a highly credible name for herself in the Australian music industry, which includes an impressive list of band credits and clients.
Jo continues to perform throughout Sydney and overseas and feels equally at home playing guitar and percussion as she does singing in ensembles with Australia’s most respected artists and musicians.
MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS
April 2009 - was a featured artist on the bill for The New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival.
In March 2009, she featured in the Sydney Taronga Zoo Twilight Series concerts supporting Glenn Shorrock from Little River Band fame to sell-out audiences.
February 2009 - Jo and her band play The Basement, Sydney.
In December 2008 - was a featured artist on the bill for The Norfolk Island Jazz Festival.
October 2008 - performed as backing vocalist for Ursula Yovich at The Deadly Awards, filmed live for television at the Sydney Opera House.
June 2008, Featured vocalist - Al Green/Donny Hathaway Tribute at the Basement to a sell out audience.
July 2007- was a featured artist with her band at Sydney’s Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival.
July 2007 – Jo’s debut performance with her band at The Basement, Sydney.
Vocal coach for pilot children’s television show (July 2007)
Featured vocalist with the Sam McNally Band at the world-class Java Jazz Festival in Jakarta during March 2007 that boasted a host of well-known international artists.
In February 2006, she featured in the Sydney Taronga Zoo Twilight Series concerts supporting Rick Price and was again invited to appear in March 2007 to sell-out audiences.
In 2005 - won awards for two of her compositions in the 25th Australian National songwriting contest and appeared on Mornings with Kerri-Anne Kennerley on Channel 9.
She gave a stellar performance at the 2005 Manly International Jazz festival with Sam McNally, and has also featured as a vocalist with Sam’s Australian Smooth Jazz Show.
Since 2005 Johanna has appeared regularly as part of Amanda Easton’s Pop Tarts, a night showcasing fabulous female singer-songwriters.
Quotes:
“I have raved recently about the singing of Jo Elms. Again she was superb and drew calls for encores. This very talented young singer improvises impressively, fast and accurately over a wide range.†….Neil MacLeod The Press
“Her live performance style captures your attention from the get-go as she pours her heart and soul into every note of every song. Jo’s engaging and friendly personality comes across so strongly you feel you know her well, particularly after listening to her emotive lyrics.†….Georgina Reed FM99.3 Sydney Radio
“Jo Elms is one of the most gifted musicians, singers and songwriters I have ever met. Her natural ability to craft a rich, soulful lead vocal in literally one take is astounding and a producers dream to work with†…..Sven Tydeman, music producer Kittygroove Productions
"It’s not often you get the whole package in one artist, but Jo Elms comes gift wrapped. A wonderful musician, songwriter and lyricist, she has a charismatic, natural stage presence. So professional, and possessed of a captivating and versatile voice that demands to be listened to†…..Jim Shipstone, Ex -Managing Director BMG Music
See also www.joelms.com
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