Carolyn Leonhart and her “All Star” Trio are set to perform at The Parlor at Hailey’s Harp and Pub on Wed. Feb. 12 from 7-9PM for a special Valentine’s Day event
Photo: Leonhart performing “In France They Kiss on Main Street” at Joe’s Pub
Celebrating Valentine’s Day- a few days early: Wed. February 12th! All are welcome at this Special Event! Carolyn Leonhart and her “All Star” Trio perform in the “Speakeasy” atmosphere of the Parlor at Hailey’s. “It’s rare to hear a singer who has both chops and discernible style. Carolyn Leonhart is one of the few. It’s a pleasure to hear the intelligence and nuance in her delivery.” All About Jazz. Carolyn’s Trio includes Myron Walden, tenor saxophone; Jim Ridl, keyboards and Jay Leonhart, bass. Presented by Hailey’s Harp & Pub with music organized by Friends of Metuchen Arts/Metuchen Jazz. Feb 14, 7 PM to 9 PM 2 sets of music $25/ticket and $20 food/drink minimum, Full dining menu, 15 Station Place, Metuchen, NJ. Doors open at 6 PM.
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.
En route to gigs, I love listening to artists who inspire me - Kenny Dorham, Hank Mobley, and Robert Glasper, to name a few. I also tend to run a little anxious, so I try to fit in some breath work and stretching to slow myself down. It helps me get out of my head, stay present, and really tune into what’s happening around me—all things that put me in a mindset that can encourage a flow of energy.
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
