Ward Swingle, American-French singer-songwriter and conductor (b. 1927)

Ward Lamar Swingle (September 21, 1927 – January 19, 2015) was a pioneering American vocalist, jazz musician, and visionary founder of the internationally acclaimed vocal ensemble, The Swingle Singers. His groundbreaking work, which began in Paris, France, in 1962, revolutionized vocal music by seamlessly blending classical repertoire with innovative jazz techniques.

Swingle's musical journey was marked by a deep understanding of both jazz and classical traditions. Before forming his iconic group, he was already an accomplished musician, renowned for his skills as a pianist, arranger, and session vocalist in Paris. It was his unique creative insight, however, that led him to conceive of a vocal group that could perform instrumental classical pieces – particularly those of Johann Sebastian Bach – using scat syllables and a jazz-infused harmonic approach. This bold concept challenged conventional musical boundaries, creating a fresh and vibrant sound that quickly captivated audiences worldwide.

The Swingle Singers: A Revolution in Vocal Music

Founded by Ward Swingle in 1962, The Swingle Singers, initially known simply as 'Les Swingle Singers,' comprised eight French session singers (four men and four women). Their distinctive sound was characterized by:

• Innovative Arrangements: Transforming complex classical compositions, such as Bach’s Fugues and Brandenburg Concertos, into intricate vocal arrangements.
• Scat Vocalization: Utilizing abstract syllables and vocalese to mimic instrumental lines, a technique rooted deeply in jazz improvisation.
• Precise Ensemble Work: Achieving remarkable precision, balance, and intonation, often without instrumental accompaniment, highlighting the purity and agility of the human voice.

Their debut album, "Jazz Sébastien Bach," released in 1963, became an instant international sensation. This album not only earned them a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1963 but also garnered a Grammy for Best Choral Performance (other than opera), a testament to their exceptional musicality and cross-genre appeal. The success of this album solidified their unique position in the music world, leading to extensive touring and further acclaimed recordings that explored works by Mozart, Vivaldi, and other classical masters, all reimagined through their distinctive jazz lens.

Ward Swingle's Enduring Legacy

Ward Swingle’s contribution extends far beyond the initial success of The Swingle Singers. He forged a new path for vocal ensembles, inspiring countless groups globally to explore vocal jazz and a cappella music with greater creativity and technical ambition. His meticulous arrangements and innovative approach to vocal interpretation demonstrated that the human voice could be as versatile and expressive as any instrument, bridging the gap between seemingly disparate musical genres. Swingle continued to lead and innovate with the group, even after its original French lineup disbanded and a new British-based ensemble was formed in the 1970s, which continued the legacy under the name "The Swingle Singers" (now known simply as "The Swingles"). His impact on vocal music remains profound, solidifying his status as a true pioneer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ward Lamar Swingle and The Swingle Singers

Who was Ward Lamar Swingle?

Ward Lamar Swingle was an influential American jazz musician, vocalist, and arranger best known as the founder of The Swingle Singers, an innovative vocal group that merged classical music with jazz techniques.

When and where did Ward Swingle found The Swingle Singers?

He founded The Swingle Singers in 1962 in Paris, France, where he was living and working as a session musician.

What made The Swingle Singers unique?

The Swingle Singers were unique for their groundbreaking approach of performing classical instrumental pieces using jazz scat vocalization and precise a cappella arrangements. They transformed works by composers like J.S. Bach and Mozart into a distinct vocal jazz style.

Did The Swingle Singers win any awards?

Yes, their debut album, "Jazz Sébastien Bach," released in 1963, won two Grammy Awards: Best New Artist and Best Choral Performance (other than opera).

What was Ward Swingle's legacy in music?

Ward Swingle's legacy is defined by his revolutionary contribution to vocal music, particularly in bridging classical and jazz genres. He inspired a new wave of a cappella and vocal jazz ensembles, demonstrating the immense versatility and expressive potential of the human voice.