Baxter's high-power jazz lifts audiences

Jazz vocalist Barbara Baxter returns to Adele's 6-9:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15, performing her diverse repertoire comprised of classic jazz, blues and Great American Song Book standards.

"Performing at Adele's is like performing for my family," said Baxter, who came to Reno in 2007 by way of Las Vegas and who has delighted audiences with an array of performances locally, including a show during Fridays at Third and several years with the Carson City Jazz Festival. "I love Charlie and Karen (Abowd, owners) ... Tara and Debbie, being there conjures up all this warm stuff for me."

Her performance is part of Adele's Summer Concert Series on the Veranda, which has become a favorite local event.

Baxter loved singing as a child and began singing in earnest following the death of her daughter Charmayne, in 2005. Until then, her life had been one of a high-power, corporate executive.

"That loss and the death of my mother the following year pointed to the value of life, how precious time is and what was important," she said. "It was time to let go of things that didn't matter.

"In life you've got to look for the positive in every situation and the positive for me was that I was called to do music; that's what makes (singing) so special and I live my life that way - asking God if this is what I am to do and if so, that the door be open."

Originally from Chicago, Baxter has since used her gift to bring joy to audiences from Los Angeles to Las Vegas to Washington, and will be joined on keys by Peter Supersano, another local favorite known for his solo work as well as for accompanying many area vocalists.

"Peter is such an amazing talent and working with him is always a joy," Baxter said.

Baxter is available for private parties, fundraisers, weddings, shows and special events. For more information, visit barbarabaxtersings.com or call her at (775) 473-5428 or (702) 332-8077.

Adele's offers a special veranda menu for these events. For more information about all that Adele's offers and latest events, visit adelesrestaurantandlounge.com or call 775-882-3353. Adele's is located at 1112 N. Carson St., Carson City.