This stylish vocal jazz group was formed in Santa Monica in 2002.  Rich harmonies, lush arrangements, and finger-popping rhythms make this group one of the most artful exemplars on the a cappella vocal jazz scene.  Swing Shift focuses on jazz and reharmonized pop and Broadway standards from the 30's to the present.  Swing Shift chooses its repertoire partly from the songbooks of much-admired arrangers, such as Gene Puerling, Greg Jasperse, and Paris Rutherford.  The group is lucky to have its own talented arrangers, among them, Phil Azelton, whose published works are widely sung by vocal jazz and school ensembles everywhere.  The group founder, Richard Gilinsky contributes a variety of charts, and one of the group's newest members, Michael Kohl, is showing himself to be an innovative and tuneful arranger for both Swing Shift and other ensembles. 

Swing Shift performs at private parties, weddings, churches, malls, and clubs.  They also appeared as one of the featured a cappella groups on KLCS’s television series “Mosaic.”   (Turn to the "See & Hear !!!" page for a video sample from the show.)  Swing Shift was honored at the 2004 Los Angeles regional Harmony Sweepstakes, where they won the best arrangement award for their 6-part version of “Where is Love?” from the musical Oliver!  

If you love rich sounds, complex and surprising harmonies, and creamy-smooth blend, you’ll love hearing this group. 

Swing Shift 

is

Tyler Azelton, soprano 1
Jessica Freedman, soprano 2
Katharine Hoye, alto
Michael Kohl, tenor
Phil Azelton, baritone
Richard Gilinsky, bass