Carolyn Leonhart and her “All Star” Trio will perform at The Parlor at Hailey’s on Wednesday Feb. 12 to celebrate Valentine’s Day
Photo: Leonhart sings “In France They Kiss on Main Street” at Joe’s Pub
1. What's the best thing about what you do?
I love listening to music, exploring, creating, and taking chances. Singing allows me to embrace all of these passions at once. I’m constantly inspired by the musicians I work with and the opportunity to communicate stories in a compelling way. Taking musical risks, being vulnerable, and even making mistakes—it’s all part of the incredible experience. Every time I step on stage, I feel truly blessed.
2. How do you get yourself 'in the zone' to create?
As an educator, parent, singer, and composer, I feel like I’m always creating—life itself is constant improvisation.
That said, I usually don’t have much time to shift from being a parent or teacher to stepping into my role as a singer. Taking care of my instrument is extremely important, so when I only have a few minutes, I’ve learned to warm up as quickly and effectively as possible.
3. How has your art and method evolved over the years?
Becoming a parent was a huge turning point for me creatively. With so much less time to do everything—including overthinking fears and conflicts—I had to reprioritize and simplify.
Over the years, I’ve worked hard to ‘move through the fear of mediocrity’ rather than letting it stop me in my tracks. And with all the real problems in the world, I just take myself a lot less seriously.
These days, my goal is to create, explore, and cultivate joy whenever possible - with an intense focus on helping others to do the same. That shift has opened up a much more authentic and direct approach to my work as a performer, singer, and composer. That said, I know I still have plenty to learn—and I’m excited about that.
4. How has teaching influenced your art?
It’s been such an unexpected gift to have this as part of my journey.
My students inspire me every day. I learn so much from them. Helping others find the courage to navigate frustration, dive deeper into their passions, and build resilience is one of the greatest gifts for me.
They push me to be the best singer I can be, in the hopes that I can inspire them in return!
5. What was it like being a backup singer for Steely Dan?
Being a featured backup singer with the band since 1996—almost 30 years now—is something I never could have imagined.
I grew up listening to Aja in the car with my dad, singing all the harmony parts just for fun. So getting to work with Donald Fagen and the late Walter Becker has been an incredible gift. Watching them create—whether performing, composing, or in the studio—has taught me so much about the creative process. Both of them are undeniably brilliant, but what really struck me is that the process is the same for everyone: it takes inspiration, craft, and—above all—hard work. Over and over again.
Creativity is a process, just like life, and I feel so lucky to have been exposed to music at such a high level. The musicians in this band are extraordinary, and the singers I’ve worked with are some of the best in the world. They’re more than just colleagues—they’re my family (and not only because my brother, trumpeter Michael Leonhart is also in the band).
— Carolyn Leonhart