Biographies

Helen Porter (vocalist)
Helen, a singer of impressive versatility, described varyingly as ‘downright seductive’, ‘gritty’, ‘sensuous’ and ‘athletic’. Helen is much in demand as a vocal coach. Recent theatre projects include ‘Dalston Songs’ and the ‘Twitter Opera’ for the Royal Opera House (winner of a 2010 “Digi” award) and a development project at the National Theatre with renowned singer, composer and recording artist Helen Chadwick. She teaches jazz singing and music theatre at Bath Spa University, as well as privately, and runs singing master classes, courses and workshops throughout the year. She became a fellow of the RSA in 2008. More of her work can be found at www.counterparts.org.uk

Karen Wimhurst (clarinet)
Karen is a superb clarinettist and bass clarinettist who fuses her experience of traditional musics, jazz and free jazz into a sound of her own. She also plays with the free jazz ensemble Zaum (‘the most exciting group operating in Europe today’ The Penguin Guide to Jazz 2006). As an established composer she has been commissioned by major ensembles such as Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Welsh National Opera, Manchester Camerata and others.

Robin Walter (guitar)
Robin has played guitar for many years, and is interested in a variety styles. The delicious harmonies of jazz have always been a particular source of delight. Robin formed Misbehavin' with Karen and Helen six years ago. He has composed some of the bands most beautiful songs, including Some Other Time and Just For Today. By day, he is a forest manager in Wiltshire and Dorset - the best of both worlds

Ralf Dorrell (double bass)
Ralf is very active on the South West music scene as a composer, performer (double bass, bass guitar and trombone), bandleader, ensemble director, lecturer, teacher and workshop tutor. As a performer he has played at music festivals both in the UK and abroad, and has performed on BBC Radio as well as on BBC1 and Channel 4 television. As well as playing double bass with Misbehavin’, he runs his own quintet - “Ten Thousand Things” - as a vehicle for his own compositions. He is also a regular member of the Al Cubbin Quartet, the Mike Daniels Quintet and GBH Big Band.