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Violin Dreams might just be the ultimate title to describe the Susan Jones Jazz Quartet-the swinging, energetic and highly entertaining group led by violinist Susan Jones. After studying classical violin and discovering the sounds of legendary jazz great, Stephane Grappelli, Jones' number one dream and lifelong passion has been jazz performance.

"Jones is one of the best violinists in Washington, and in the relatively small world of jazz violinsts, she's developing an international reputation."-The Washington Post

Being based in the Washington DC area, (a region with a diverse potpourri of venues offering a wide range of musical styles), has allowed her to create a multi-faceted career in music, satiating her desire to incorporate her many influences and to play almost constantly. With her new CD, "Exit 19", Jones takes us on a musical trip. The sign, with those cryptic words: Exit 19 Future, right at the edge of her neighborhood, remained an unfinished exit for her entire childhood and often led her to wonder what was at the end of that exit. That mystery was the inspiration for this new collection of songs. Searching for a new and exciting path with each composition or new arrangement, this CD exemplifies her creative journey since her first exposure to the world of jazz music.

The Susan Jones Quartet's live performances consistently delight with a premium lineup of musicians including frequenters Gerry Kunkel on guitar, Bob Abbott on bass, and Tom Jones on drums.

Jones says, "When I first heard the French Jazz violinist Stephane Grappelli, his music brought me total joy. When I figured out I had a knack for improvisation, I was thrilled. If I were listening to his music, you could tell me World War lll was breaking out and I'd still be grinning. I began playing for the pure joy of it and to bring happiness to others. If I can move people the way he did, it's been a good night, a good gig."

Susan has helped to back up dozens of visiting artists (e.g. Dionne Warwick, Aretha Franklin, Robert Plant, Jimmy Page and Stevie Wonder) at venues including: The Kennedy Center, Constitution Hall, the Verizon Center and the Newport Jazz Festival. She has also toured with Barry White. Susan has mastered styles ranging from classical to jazz, and performing solo, in duos, trios and as a quartet as well as performing with other like-minded and talented musicians including Latin, Folk-Rock, Country, Klezmer and Mariachi groups, ultimately adding dimension and versatility to her own exhilarating shows.

"Both her ensemble and solo work exude a kind of tonal charisma. And where one can hear players like Jerry Goodman and Joe Venuti have left a mark or two on Jones' conception, one is ultimately taken with her own singing tone." -Reuben Jackson

Her original tunes plus arrangements with unique twists on standard compositions have filled numerous CDs: "Violin Dreams", "Nuts and Bolts", "Violin Caliente", each garnering national critical acclaim. The newest release, "Exit 19", exudes the confidence and grace of her years of experience and musical surprises (as well as the title and CD cover art) exemplifying Jones' willingness to experiment and play outside the box that her fans have come to expect with each new release.

With over 30 years of experience, Susan Jones reigns as one of the most accomplished and versatile violinists in the Washington area. By performing in public and private venues, including intimate settings to large capacity halls, Susan Jones has attracted the attention of DJs and audiences alike who fall prey to her amazing and alluring melodies, engaging rhythm and textures, and finely tuned skill.