Jane Monheit (born December 3, 1977) is an American jazz vocalist known for her interpretations of jazz standards and contemporary songs. Born in New York City and raised in Madison, Connecticut, Monheit began studying piano at age six and later attended the Manhattan School of Music, where she earned a Bachelor of Music degree in vocal performance.
Monheit's professional recording career began with the release of her debut album, Never Never Land (1999), on the Concord Jazz label. The album received favorable reviews and established her reputation in the contemporary jazz scene. Subsequent releases, including Take Me to the World (2001), Come Dream with Me (2002), Surrender (2004), and The Season (2005), continued to showcase her lyrical vocal style and contributed to her growing popularity.
In addition to studio recordings, Monheit has performed at major venues and festivals worldwide, such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, the Newport Jazz Festival, and Carnegie Hall. She has collaborated with notable musicians and orchestras, including the Count Basie Orchestra, the Dave Brubeck Quartet, and pianist Russell Malone.
Monheit’s discography includes more than a dozen albums, several of which have charted on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart. Her work often blends traditional jazz repertoire with pop and Broadway influences, and she is recognized for her clear tone, precise phrasing, and ability to convey emotional nuance.
Beyond recording and performing, Monheit has contributed to educational initiatives, conducting workshops and master classes for emerging vocalists. She is married to Michael O'Neill, a composer and arranger, and together they have children.
Monheit continues to be active in the jazz community, releasing new material and touring internationally, maintaining a presence as one of the prominent contemporary vocalists in the genre.
