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George & Elena Gilliam

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  • Home
  • George J. Gilliam Bio
  • Elena G. - Bio
  • Press/Reviews
  • Store
    • CD's available
  • Calendar/Event Schedule
  • Photo Gallery
  • Contact
  • Vocal Performance Workshops!

Elena Gilliam

Honored as a Living Legend of Jazz by Living Legends Inc. in Los Angeles, California, Elena Gilliam is an astonishing jazz vocalist with a rare depth of natural talent.  Her level of performance is widely applauded as analogous with such jazz greats as Lena Horne, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington and the like.  Her unique rich, eloquent tones and brilliant phrasing take you on a musical journey of jazz, swing, standards, latin and blues.  Elena charms you with her animated "scatting” that exemplifies her musical versatility, while she cleverly connects you to song lyrics.  Her confidence, enthusiasm and love for music shine through every performance.  Her extraordinary sound is indeed a treat for anyone who appreciates a true songstress. 

Elena has been featured at countless events (both public and private) at venues such as; the Hyatt Newporter Jazz Festival, the KKJZ 88.1 Jazz and Blues Sunday Brunch at the Hollywood Lowes, Spaghettini Grill & Jazz Club in Seal Beach, The Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach, the Festival of the Arts Laguna Beach Tivoli Terrace summer jazz, at Jazz at Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach.  Currently, you can find Elena at various local Jazz venues; the Port Restaurant in Corona del Mar, the Black Marlin in Tustin and Brix at the Shore in Long Beach, Malarkey's in Long Beach and others!

“Elena is a true Jazz Vocalist!” Quotes renown pianist/band leader Ron Kobayashi (credits; Mel Torme, Kenny Burrell).  Elena strives for the best sound and surrounds herself with amazing musicians like Ron, George Gilliam (phenomenal guitarist), Llew Matthews (credits; Nancy Wilson’s musical arranger and director, Kenny Burrell), Henry “Skipper” Franklin, LA Living Legend of Jazz (credits; Joe Williams, Sonny Rollins), Donald Dean, LA Living Legend of Jazz (Les McCann and Eddie Harris), Brad Bobo (Eddie Harris, Linda Hopkins), Jane Getz (Dale Fielder Quartet, Charles Mingus), and countless others!  

Elena’s love of music and comfort with the stage are qualities she shares with young artists in the community.  She has a strong commitment to foster personal growth through art and music. As a recipient of the 2014 Kenneth A. Picerne Foundation Artist Outreach Project, Elena developed workshops for at risk teens.  She continues her work encouraging young adults to build personal strength through performance. 

Her admiration of “the arts”, brought about Elena’s production of The Art of JAZZ held at the Muzeo of Anaheim, showcasing music and visual art through an outstanding art exhibit and jazz concert.  She combined both art forms that featured both local young talent and renown jazz musicians; Jane Getz, Fritz Wise, Brad Bobo, George J. Gilliam.  

Elena’s recording career began at Capitol Records with the prestigious Charles Rutherford Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Pacific Orchestra.  Dr. Rutherford became her mentor as he showcased her phenomenal talent at live concerts and events.  As she continued with her own group, Elena developed a unique sound and style lovingly admired by her fans.  After being invited for many recordings over the years, Elena released her own powerful CD, “Moments in Time” that showcases a mix of beloved songs from her musical journey.  Elena is anxiously working on her new CD, breathing new life into beloved classics and adding a few original tunes with her phenomenal music director/accompanist Michael Le Van.  Michael's depth as a composer and arranger are unmatched in the jazz world.

Her journey continues with natural style, versatility and enthusiasm relished by her following.  Elena’s sound will enrapture and delight your heart!

 

 

Previous events

SoCal Jazz Collaborative featuring Elena Gilliam

SoCal Jazz Collaborative featuring Elena Gilliam

Friday, April 29 @ 7:00PM — 9:30PMFri, Apr 29 @ 7:00PM — 9:30PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA

SoCal Jazz Collective features jazz with award winning musicians and featuring Elena. Parties of 6 or more can make reservations. Great music, food and atmosphere!

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Apr20

Skyloft presents jazz with the Tom Dante Trio featuring Elena Gilliam

Wednesday, April 20 @ 6:30PM — 9:30PMWed, Apr 20 @ 6:30PM — 9:30PM

Skyloft, 422 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach

The Tom Dante Trio presents Jazz featuring guest artist Elena Gilliam.
For Reservations contact The Skyloft https://skyloftoc.com/events/

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George & Elena Gilliam

George & Elena Gilliam

Thursday, April 14 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PMThu, Apr 14 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PM

Campus Jax, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month with Steamers Jazz at Jax! Join us for great jazz with stellar musicians Michael Le Van piano, Jeff Littleton bass, Teodross Avery sax and Paul Kreibich drums!
Make your reservations/tickets at https://www.campusjax.com/events/elena-and-george-gilliam-steamers-jazz-at-jax

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SoCal Jazz Collaborative featuring Elena Gilliam

SoCal Jazz Collaborative featuring Elena Gilliam

Friday, March 25 @ 7:00PMFri, Mar 25 @ 7:00PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA

SoCal Jazz Academy presents the SoCal Jazz Collective at the lively OC Fish Grill in Irvine, CA! Jazz Quartet with Dr. Karim Yengsep at the helm on bass, Michael LeVan keys, Wes Perry sax, Peter Pfeifer drums and featuring Elena!
No cover, outdoors, great food and casual atmosphere along with amazing jazz!

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Nov20

AlZ That Jazz

Saturday, November 20, 2021 @ 7:00PMSat, Nov 20, 2021 @ 7:00PM

The Casino San Clemente, 140 West Avenida Pico, San Clemente, CA

Second annual Alz That Jazz Event is almost here! A hopeful evening filled with jazz music and delicious food benefitting the Alzheimer's Association! Enjoy performances by renowned female songstresses of varied jazz styles including standards and scat: Liz Booth, Meloney Collins, Elena Gilliam and Crystal Lewis. Event includes delectable food stations provided by the generosity of Cal Fresh Catering, Jay’s Catering and TGIS Catering, with sweets provided by Penelope’s Perfections! Coffee available.

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Nov5

George & Elena Gilliam guest artists with the Bruce Lett Trio

Friday, November 5, 2021 @ 6:00PM — 7:30PMFri, Nov 5, 2021 @ 6:00PM — 7:30PM

The Ventura Harbor Comedy Club, 555 Spinnaker Drive, Suite 205, Ventura, CA 93001

Classic Jazz from the Bruce Lett Trio, featuring Elena and George Gilliam, and Ben Sholtz drums

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Oct29

Elena Gilliam with the SoCal Jazz Academy Band

Friday, October 29, 2021 @ 6:30PM — 8:00PMFri, Oct 29, 2021 @ 6:30PM — 8:00PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Parkway, Irvine, CA

The SoCal Jazz Academy presents Jazz with guest artist Elena Gilliam. Michael LeVan keyboard, Denny Dennis drums, Karim Yengsep bass. Outdoor dining. Reservations Recommended.

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Oct1

SoCal Jazz Academy Friday Night Jazz with Guest George Gilliam

Friday, October 1, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:30PMFri, Oct 1, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:30PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Pkwy, Irvine

SoCal Jazz Academy presents jazz with special guest George Gilliam guitar.

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Steamers Jazz at Jax presents - Swing into Autumn with Elena & George Gilliam

Steamers Jazz at Jax presents - Swing into Autumn with Elena & George Gilliam

Thursday, September 30, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PMThu, Sep 30, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PM

Campus Jax, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

For Tickets visit Campus Jax website! Reservations Recommended!!

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So Cal Jazz Academy presents Jazz with guest faculty Elena Gilliam & Trombonist Wendell Kelly

So Cal Jazz Academy presents Jazz with guest faculty Elena Gilliam & Trombonist Wendell Kelly

Friday, September 24, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:00PMFri, Sep 24, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:00PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Pkwy, Irvine

SoCal Jazz Academy presents Friday Night Jazz with special guests; Elena Gilliam, Michael Le Van, Wendell Kelly trombone, Denny Dennis drummer

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SoCal Jazz Academy featuring Elena Gilliam with Dr. Karim Yengsep Trio

SoCal Jazz Academy featuring Elena Gilliam with Dr. Karim Yengsep Trio

Friday, August 27, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:00PMFri, Aug 27, 2021 @ 7:30PM — 10:00PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Pkwy, Irvine

Friday Night Live Jazz with the SoCal Jazz Academy Faculty and students! Join us on the patio at OC Fish Grill for jazz and a great time!

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Elena Gilliam with Michael LeVan Duet

Elena Gilliam with Michael LeVan Duet

Tuesday, August 24, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 10:00PMTue, Aug 24, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 10:00PM

The Port, 440 Heliotrope, Corona del Mar

Relax and enjoy some great evening jazz with Elena Gilliam and pianist Michael Le Van! The ambiance is just right for a wonderful evening to remember!
Reservations recommended! 949-723-9685

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Laguna Art-a-Fair presents The George Gilliam Quartet with Elena Gilliam

Laguna Art-a-Fair presents The George Gilliam Quartet with Elena Gilliam

Sunday, August 8, 2021 @ 12:00PM — 6:00PMSun, Aug 8, 2021 @ 12:00PM — 6:00PM

Laguna Art-a-Fair, 777 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651

Laguna Art-a-Fair is open for the summer and presenting music with the George Gilliam Quartet and Elena Gilliam. Surrounded by beautiful art of the vendors, the air will be filled with great jazz. On stage is Elena Gilliam, George Gilliam guitar, Michael LeVan keys, Ernie Nunez bass and Paul Kreibich drums! Tickets available on site for entrance into the grounds. Band dinner break from 4-5pm

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Elena's Summer Swing! With the George Gilliam Quintet

Elena's Summer Swing! With the George Gilliam Quintet

Thursday, June 24, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PMThu, Jun 24, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 8:30PM

Campus Jax, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660

Terrence Love Steamer's Jazz at Jax presents Elena Gilliam with the George Gilliam Quintet! Summer Swingin' under the stars at Campus Jax' beautiful outdoor Stage and Dinning center. Don't miss the fun with Elena and this stellar Quintet; George leading the way on guitar, Michael Le Van piano, Edmund Velasco sax, Ernie Nunez bass and John Ferraro drums! Tickets available on line Campus Jax

$35/$25/$15

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Elena Gilliam Quartet

Elena Gilliam Quartet

Saturday, April 17, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 9:00PMSat, Apr 17, 2021 @ 7:00PM — 9:00PM

Casino San Clemente, 140 West Avenido Pico, San Clemente

Live under the stars! Elena with George Gilliam guitar, Michael Le Van keyboard and Paul Kreibich drums make for an exciting return to live music under the stars. Doors open at 6:30pm! Dinner included with ticket price.

$30 Includes dinner and entertainment

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George & Elena Gilliam

George & Elena Gilliam

Sunday, December 6, 2020 @ 5:00PM — 6:30PMSun, Dec 6, 2020 @ 5:00PM — 6:30PM

Campus Jax, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach

Elena and George Gilliam present the ultimate safe and socially distanced live, in-person holiday event for the benefit of the incredible local non-profit organization CREATIVE IDENTITY, a therapeutic music and arts program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities directed by George Gilliam since he founded it in 1996. Many very special Orange County adults have benefited from the amazing hands-on music and arts opportunities made available by Creative Identity with its locations in Anaheim, Laguna Beach and now continuing its services and programs online.

This special holiday benefit program will feature Elena on vocals backed by George and his quintet. Your support of this important local organization is deeply appreciated.

Ultra VIP section ($60/person; tables for 2 or 4) VIP section ($45/person; tables for 2 or 4) General Seating section ($35/person; tables for 2 or 4) 5:00pm-6:30pm Show 4:00pm Doors Open

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Dec2

George & Elena Gilliam Singer/Songwriter Showcase Benefit for the Innocense Project

Wednesday, December 2, 2020 @ 8:00PMWed, Dec 2, 2020 @ 8:00PM

8:00PM – The Innocence Project Singer/Songwriters (Livestream Only) ​

George & Elena will be performing a couple of songs and a number of other special guests for this 2 hour benefit. "In My Special Room" Singer/Songwriter Showcase & Benefit for the Innocence Project on December 2nd from 8pm-10pm PT. Brought to you by DrDebzz call-in talk advice show, "Sleepless in Studio City" http://americanheartsradio.com/. All proceeds go directly to the Innocence Project, an amazing organization that frees innocent victims who have been falsely accused, unjustly convicted, and wrongly incarcerated for decades. If you'd like to donate, please visit our fundraising page: https://innocence-fundraising-ip.funraise.org/fundraiser/debra-graff?fundraiserPrompt=1466673

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Nov29

SoCal Jazz Faculty Band

Sunday, November 29, 2020 @ 12:00PM — 3:00PMSun, Nov 29, 2020 @ 12:00PM — 3:00PM

OC Fish Grill, 5789 Alton Pkwy, Irvine

SoCal Jazz Academy presents their outstanding faculty in a showcase! Presenting Founder and Director Dr. Karim Yengsep on bass, Michael Le Van piano, Jon Rush drums, Elena Gilliam vocals and guest students! Open Air performance! OC Fish Grill has delicious cuisine and service for a moderate price.

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Nov12

George & Elena Gilliam Jazz Artist Showcase

Thursday, November 12, 2020 @ 6:30PMThu, Nov 12, 2020 @ 6:30PM

Campus Jax - Steamers Jazz at Jax, 3950 Campus Drive, Newport Beach

Elena & George Gilliam Artist Showcase Michael Le Van, piano; Edmund Velasco, saxophone; Michael Saucier, bass; John Ferraro, drums

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BACKYARD SESSIONS with the George Gilliam Trio

BACKYARD SESSIONS with the George Gilliam Trio

Thursday, July 30, 2020Thu, Jul 30, 2020

At the House! Check FACEBOOK for George J. Gilliam's Fan Page

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