Imagine an artist with “virtuoso level” musicianship, silky, emotive vocals, and the creative chops to make 80s pop hits into new jazz creations. That’s the skillset possessed by Arpenik Hakobyan, a cellist/vocalist/arranger from Armenia who is on the verge of international superstardom in the world of jazz. The 29-year-old began her musical journey at the age of 8 and was soon singled out for her natural gifts. She’s studied and played with the masters in multiple genres across the globe, winning accolades at every stop. Hear a sample of her original work in the video just below. And here's a link to a sample of her imagination as an arranger: an impressive reconstruction of a Michael Jackson classic.

Paula Atherton is a New York–based Saxtress/Flutist/Singer who is riding high on the success of her 5th album, “Ear Candy”. Her energetic, accessible brand of Jazz has made her a favorite on the Jazz festival circuit across the country and around the world.  Her band is tight and the music compelling—from smooth grooves like this to well-rehearsed compositions that sound like they’re on the verge of jazz improvisation. If it’s any indication of her musical pedigree, she is signed to Kalimba Records, the company founded and nurtured by the late Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire fame. And her list of collaborators is equally impressive.

Apernik and Atherton are set to perform at The D. Douglas Barnard Amphitheatre on Augusta University’s Summerville Campus on Saturday, May 6th at 6 pm. In the event of inclement weather, the concert moves indoors to Maxwell Theatre, also on AU’s Summerville Campus. As always, Straight A Jazz Concert tickets are adorably priced:  $10/general admission; $5 with a valid military ID or a valid student ID from any educational institution. For additional information and online ticket purchases, visit Augusta.UniversityTickets.com.