SOLEIL DUO PERFORMS MUSIC THAT PEOPLE LOVE

In an industry divided into camps (classical, jazz, folk, pop, countless others), Kenneth Johnson and Nancy Pincombe, the piano and vocals duo, find it freeing to ignore the divisions. They believe it is a relief for listeners, too, who delight in Soleil Duo’s wide repertoire. Jazz standards, adapted to piano and vocals, are the staples that audiences love. They’ve added pop, country, folk, striving for unique, intimate interpretations that suit lounge, dining and concert venues. The responses have been gratifying.

“Accomplished, classy, romantic . . .” (comment from a Soleil Duo fan)

Kenneth Norman Johnson is well-known, here. He is a pianist, music educator, producer and composer of original works, including several full-length musical productions. He also directs the Pender Harbour Choir.

Nancy is a writer and is the product of a school music program that gave students many opportunities to perform. She has been a principal in Ken’s musical productions.

NANCY:

“I’m still not entirely sure he’s real. It has been an incredible gift, to be able to work with someone with his talent and experience. He’s been at this since –I think literally—before electricity and can read an audience, handle unexpected situations, play anything, in any key. And he’s tireless! His playing is entrancing.”

KEN:

“Nancy is one of the best vocalists I have worked with. There is a unique quality to her voice that people love and respond to. This inspires me. She is constantly seeking new material for us and we work together on our own arrangements of great songs. The result is a tight duo, focused on professional performance.”

SOLEIL DUO HAS FOUND ITS GROOVE

“When a listener stands up at the end of the evening and says ‘you’ve just played every single one of my favourite songs’ and shakes our hands, it makes our night. When we get a call from a fan who’s heard us twice at the Rockwater (Secret Cove Resort) and who wants us to play for her 50th anniversary party in Vancouver, well, we know we’ve done just what we set out to do.”

2022 will bring more performances on and off the Coast. And will see Shine! in the studio to record a couple of Ken’s original Christmas songs, leading to an album and a Soleil Duo Christmas special.