About
Mel Searle is a vibrant and exciting addition to the Melbourne jazz and vocal scene.With a voice which has been described as liquid honey, Mel’s vocals are understated yet utterly captivating due to her impeccable control and luminous tone. With an innate talent for vocal improvisation and unerring phrasing and intonation, Mel Searle performs with a sophistication and vitality which is joyfully reminiscent of some of the greats of yesteryear.
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A versatile performer and musician, Mel Searle performs regularly with some of Australia’s pre-eminent jazz musicians, including the Joe Ruberto Trio and the John Montesante Quintet in and around Melbourne. Mel also features throughout the year at Melbourne’s iconic Paris Cat Jazz Club where she is currently presenting a ‘Tribute to Ella Fitzgerald’ show, which has been received with rave reviews since January 2016. In addition Mel sings in a cappella group On Church Street whose credits include opening for the internationally acclaimed vocal group Naturally 7 at Hamer Hall in 2015.​
Mel's passion for singing has developed over many years, stemming from being surrounded by music as a young child and learning classical piano. She grew up singing and playing in her church, which provided a perfect environment for honing her ability to connect with the heart of a song. She moved to Melbourne as a student to complete a degree in Music Teaching at Melbourne University, and it was from her many years of teaching that she discovered that the voice was a unique and exquisite instrument. Singing soon became her main focus. She spent time as the lead vocalist of funk bank Soul Intention and began to broaden her musical interests into soul, jazz and all genres of popular music, also recording with local Melbourne artists.
A talented Musical & Creative Director, Mel has directed many ensembles over the years, including varied choral groups, her church band and the Manningham Carols by Candlelight choir and ensemble, one of the largest carols events in Melbourne. She is also a featured vocalist at this event.
Mel Searle is a much sought after vocal coach and continues to teach locally.