The Billie Holiday Project featuring Stella Heath

The Billie Holiday Project featuring Stella Heath celebrates the life, legacy, and music of Lady Day through historically informed yet contemporary jazz interpretations. Led by vocalist Stella Heath and pianist/arranger Neil Fontano, the ensemble brings emotional clarity, musical depth, and storytelling to one of America’s most influential voices.

The Billie Holiday Project began as a concert collaboration between Heath and Fontano, born out of a shared admiration for Holiday’s artistry and a desire to approach her music with care rather than imitation. What started as a limited engagement quickly grew through word-of-mouth, repeat bookings, and audience response. Over time, the ensemble expanded its repertoire, refined its concept, and developed into a fully realized touring program, appearing in jazz clubs, concert halls, and performing arts centers.

By 2026, the project has become one of Heath’s most recognized and in-demand productions—valued by presenters for its musical integrity, emotional clarity, and ability to connect deeply with audiences across generations. Each performance stands as both a celebration and a remembrance: honoring Billie Holiday not as a distant icon, but as a living artistic force whose music continues to speak with urgency, vulnerability, and strength.