Jazz lovers have a special place in their hearts for the singers — those uniquely gifted performers who guide us through the musical twists of improvisation and, using only their voices, bring us back home to the melody. It is a delight every time you hear them.

On Wednesday evening, July 27, area residents will be able to hear Molly Pitcher do just that when she performs at the Whale’s Tale from 7 to 9 p.m. Pitcher will appear with fellow jazz musicians David Clarke playing guitar and Eric Davis playing the bass.

Pitcher, who moved to East Boothbay from Bangor a year ago, is donating her performance to benefit the Community Center. Limited seating is available for $10 per ticket.

The concept for the event evolved when community center photographer Bob Crink dropped by Solo Bistro in Bath to photograph Pitcher’s performance one evening. They discussed the possibility of a benefit performance and Crink coordinated the details.

Pitcher’s path to jazz was not a direct one. She started playing guitar as a teen with small gigs sent her way by her guitar teacher. Performances were difficult at first because she wrestled with contradictory feelings: wanting to be on stage but apprehensive about singing for an audience. 

As she explains, “About 20 years ago I said ‘I really want to do this’ and there was something inside me that really liked performing.” That “something” led Pitcher to perform in a small renaissance baroque ensemble and to join Wild Ginger, a three-woman a cappella group.

At the same time, Pitcher developed her interest in prosthetics and became a certified orthotist and prosthetist, having her own practice for many years.

Pitcher credits her participation in singing groups with helping her transition to jazz. She feels that her voice is really an instrument in the mix and says that performing is “a constant thrill. I’m always learning something.” 

According to Pitcher, Maine has more jazz being played than most people expect. She points out that Ellsworth and Blue Hill high schools have jazz programs and schools compete at jazz events around the state. She believes that is because jazz has so many different forms.

“It’s about the heart,” she explains. Pitcher describes her type of performance as smooth jazz with standards from Cole Porter, Gershwin and other American composers. She will also be performing on Sept. 2 at Solo Bistro in Bath.

Those wishing to purchase tickets to the “Smooth Jazz” event may do so at the Community Center. Seating is limited, so those wishing to attend are encouraged to purchase tickets as quickly as possible. The Community Center can be reached at 633-9876.