Vocals

Vocals

Eleni Kontos is thrilled to be part of the GSJO as a vocalist. She’s been performing with them for the last 8 years. In addition to singing her favorite jazz charts with the big band, she’s also pursuing an acting career in New York City. Thank you to her family for their endless support and of course, to Ken Zampella who ignited her passion for music.

Vocals

Emily Lucas is a jazz, soul, and classical vocalist native to the Asbury Park area. While studying at William Paterson University under Nancy Marano and Sarah Griffiths, she has been touring with the Motown band Total Soul, traveling across the East Coast. This summer, she made her jazz debut with the Garden State Jazz Orchestra, and began studying with Catherine Russel and Alexis Cole.

Vocals

Octavia was a high school special education teacher, now retired after having taught for 30 years. While teaching, she sang with the high school choir. She has sung with GSJO since their inception. She spends most of her time involved in various ministries within her church. Octavia has been a cantor at St. Bernadette Church in Parlin for the last 35 yrs. While not a professional singer, she enjoys the opportunity to sing with GSJO from time to time. The director, Ken Zampella, is her son so a little nepotism doesn’t hurt. Singing is her passion and therapy, and it “keeps her off the streets and out of trouble”.