Faith Winthrop’s life is as richly documented as her songbook. Her life has been a constant love affair with song, from an 11-year old who climbed the streets of the G line streetcar to take requests from passengers on the journey from Brookline to Boston. Madame Cleora White, a turban-wearing opera diva, taught her classical voice lessons. This was the beginning of her path to a singing career. Faith was influenced by Sarah Vaughan’s unique voice and musical style. Peggy Lee, Mabel Mercer and Mel Torme were added to her vocal influences. This gave Faith valuable advice. She was a part of the City By the Bay’s cultural fabric, serving as the house singer at the famous hungry i, where she performed alongside young stars like Woody Allen, Barbara Streisand and Mort Sahl. She shared the stage with Mel Torme and the Basie Band. Faith quickly established herself as one of the era’s greatest talents. She took her show on tour, performing at some of the country’s best jazz and cabaret clubs including Mister Kelly’s and London House in Chicago and the Blue Angel in New York. After making her TV debut on “Today Show”, Faith settled permanently in San Francisco to raise her child. This highly respected artist continues to be an influencer in the music scene of San Francisco through vocal coaching and performance. She was also the founder of Glide Memorial’s famed choir. She has worked with a variety of artists in her San Francisco studio. These include Holly Near, Al Jarreau and Holly Near. She teaches at Mills College and Berkeley’s Jazzschool. She is a leading expert in vocal technique and performance skills. She loves to inspire not only experienced singers but also beginners and people who have rediscovered their passion for singing. Faith’s 20-song CD “Leap of Faith” features classic American Songbook songs. Later, she produced an autobiographical one woman show, “It’s All About Faith,” that was a tender and honest account of her life as a singer. Her second CD, “Having myself a Time”, was the result. She also demonstrated her exceptional songwriting skills. Faith continues to amaze audiences both nationally and internationally by combining her original songs with her soulful, elegant style, rhythmic comedy timing and remarkable vocal control. She recently presented her new show, Faith Lift, at San Francisco’s Razz room to a soaring reception. Faith is creating more songs of wonder and wit, and plans to record and bring her show to the road once again, always faithful to her love affair for song. from www.faithwinthrop.com
