Nikki Yanofsky

At only 15 years of age, Nikki Yanofsky has already performed 3 times at the Montreal International Jazz Festival and sung with the biggest names in jazz. Meet a super talented girl who's sure to have a long and successful musical career!

Nikki, when did you start singing?

As far back as I can remember, I've always loved to sing. I was singing when I was 2 years-old. But I started singing professionally when I was 11 by doing benefit concerts for charity organizations with my band.

How did you discover jazz music? Did your parents introduce you to it?

No, not at all. I'm actually the one who introduced my parents to jazz! I really like to discover music online. For example, my latest album is a tribute to jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. I found her music by chance on iTunes! Right away, I was drawn by her voice that's so unique. And although she passed away in 2006, to me, her music transcends time.

You sang at the Montreal Jazz Festival for the first time in 2006 at the age of 12. How did you get there?

One of the Festival's organizers saw me perform at a benefit event and contacted my parents to find out if I was available to sing at the Montreal Jazz Festival. Of course! The first year, in 2006, I opened for the Nevel Brothers. And then, in 2007 and 2008, I had my own show.

You also recorded a song for High School Musical 2. How was the experience?

It was really cool because I was able to reach a different audience, much younger. The song I sing on the High School Musical soundtrack is a pop song. A lot of kids were interested in my music after hearing me. They visited my Web site and found out that I also sing jazz. This way, they discoveredt his musical genre.

How many hours a week do you practice?

Many! About 2 hours a day. When I get back from school, I relax in front of the computer for an hour, and then I practice. Sometimes alone, sometimes with my voice coach or my band. I also attend an art school, which makes it easier for me to miss when I have concerts.

Do you play other musical instruments?

Yes, the guitar, drums and piano.

You sang with several well-known stars, such as Céline Dion, and in many venues abroad. To date, which performance is your favourite?

Last year, on my 14th birthday, I played the famous Carnegie Hall in New York. Let's just say that this was a great birthday gift! Another great gift were my 2 Juno Award nominations this year for best jazz vocal album and best new artist.

What are your short-term projects?

I'm working on my next album, which should come out this summer. It'll include original pieces. I'll be singing jazz, but also rhythm'n blues. I also have some shows in the works.

What are your goals in life?

I'd like to continue to use my talent to collect funds for causes that I hold dear. That's how I started singing professionally and I got noticed; it's very important to me.

To find out more, visit the Nikki Yanofsky Web site.