Gail Pettis will present “Ella et al. – Celebrating the Great Ladies of Jazz” on Saturday, May 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Orcas Center.

Pettis is a two-time winner of Earshot Jazz Golden Ear “Northwest’s Vocalist of the Year” award. Her warm, rich vocals and retro air hint at the silken sophistication and storytelling style of the young Nancy Wilson.

The Seattle vocalist is excited to return to the island and share her love and appreciation for all who have gone before her and paved the wonderful road called jazz.

Pettis has chosen the fitting occasion of the 100th birthday celebration of the First Lady of Jazz herself, Ella Fitzgerald.

“It would be difficult to find a jazz fan or performer who has not been profoundly influenced by her music,” she said.

The term et al. comes from Pettis’ pre-jazz days as a healthcare provider and scientific researcher. The term is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase et alia, which means “and others.”

Pettis chose this term to illustrate her belief that “I never sing alone – I stand on the shoulders of all the greats who have come before me. This show is my way of honoring iconic vocalists whose work has challenged, informed and inspired so many of us.”

The show will include music by Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday and other greats. Pettis will also feature some contemporary artists she considers to be personal heroes and role models. Joining Gher is the Darin Clendenin Trio and special guest Martin Lund. Ticket are $20 for adults and $18 for students at Darvill’s Bookstore and online at http://gailpettis.brownpapertickets.com.