Melanie Scholtz is a multitalented South African-born artist, celebrated for her contributions as a jazz singer, composer, dancer, and visual artist. Born into a musical family, Scholtz's early exposure to music and the arts laid the foundation for her diverse and expansive career.
Scholtz was born on February 25, 1979, in Cape Town, South Africa. Her musical journey began at the tender age of five with classical piano lessons, leading to formal vocal training under the guidance of soprano May Abrahams by the age of sixteen. Her academic pursuits in music led her to the University of Cape Town, where she graduated Cum Laude with a Performer’s Diploma in Opera.
Throughout her illustrious career, Scholtz's achievements have been recognized on numerous occasions. Notable milestones include:
Her discography expanded with the release of "Kindred," a duo EP with Norwegian bassist Jo Skanskaer in 2022, and her latest album, "Seven," which was released in September 2024.
Melanie Scholtz's career is marked by collaborations with globally revered artists. She has shared stages with the likes of Wynton Marsalis, Kurt Elling, Hugh Masekela, Bobby McFerrin, and Christian McBride. Scholtz was prominently featured in The Great South African Songbook Tour, performing in cities across the United States and Europe.
Upon her relocation to New York City, Scholtz also embraced visual arts, adopting the persona "The Silver Lining Activist." Influenced by iconic artists such as Basquiat, Warhol, and Harring, her art often emphasizes feminist and African themes, providing a rich tapestry of narrative and visual aesthetics.
As a leader in her field, Scholtz has an impressive list of albums that capture her artistic evolution:
Scholtz is renowned for her perfect diction and intimate performance style, often drawing upon her experience with electronic vocal techniques. Her latest work demonstrates her versatility and engagement with multitracking.
Continuing to influence and inspire, Scholtz remains active as a performer, composer, and educator. Her involvement with Jazz at Lincoln Center has included outreach workshops to bridge South African and American jazz traditions. Recent tours saw her performing in New York, Chicago, Vienna, and South Africa with the Jazz at Lincoln Centre Orchestra.
Melanie Scholtz stands as a significant force in contemporary jazz, distinguished by her cultural influences and artistic fervor, maintaining a dynamic presence that combines her musical and visual creativity.
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