Hilary Gardner — Bio

Originally from Wasilla, Alaska, vocalist Hilary Gardner made her Broadway debut in Twyla Tharp’s hit musical, Come Fly Away.  Backed by a 19-piece big band, Hilary sang solos and duets with Frank Sinatra in a performance hailed by critics as “wonderful” (Huffington Post), “elegant” (USA Today), and “terrific” (New York Observer).
 
Hilary is a founding member of Shotgun Wedding, a Brooklyn-based country music band.  She also performs frequently as a featured vocalist with the George Gee Swing Orchestra.  As the voice of the jazz-inflected cabaret quartet West 73^rd, Hilary has performed at the Metropolitan Room, Feinstein’s at the Regency, and the Detroit Institute of Arts. The group’s debut CD, The Kurt Weill Project, was nominated for a MAC Award for “Best Jazz Recording of 2008.”  
 
Hilary has worked extensively as a guest vocalist.  Multi-platinum recording artist Moby featured Hilary prominently on his acclaimed 2009 release, Wait For Me (Mute Records/EMI).  Award-winning guitarist and composer Ken Hatfield selected Hilary as the vocalist for his 2011 song cycle, "For Langston," based on the poetry of Langston Hughes.  Hilary garnered critical praise for her contributions to Oasis (CAP), the 2004 release by the New York State of the Art Jazz Ensemble, led by Mike Longo, longtime Dizzy Gillespie associate.  
 
Hilary is also a freelance writer; her blog, Ad Alta Voce, is home to her musings on eating and drinking, creativity, New York City and occasionally, the subway.  As a food writer, she has contributed to Under The Tuscan Gun and NYC restaurateur Jason Denton's blog.