Hugh Fraser - The Hamilton Spectator

Jude Johnson has developed into one of Canada's finest vocalists and performers for both adults and children. She has released seven recordings including her most recent This Heart of Mine featuring Carl Horton on piano, guests Jackie Washington on vocals, Carlos del Junco on harmonica, Brian Lee Griffith on guitar and the string quartet "Panache". This classy, entertaining CD is a collection of classic jazz compositions performed with intimacy, grace and joy. Her other recordings include: Reflected Space, Flirtin' (1985), Jazz & Blues Straightup (1989), and Moontime Howl (1995), as well as a children's recording entitled Singin' and a Swingin (1993). Her recording One Voice is a collection of spiritual and inspirational songs celebrating the universal language of music. Jude has also been the unseen voice on many radio and TV commercials, been featured on CBC radio and sung on over 40 albums with such artists as Raffi, Scott Merritt and Stan Rogers, and performed across Canada at countless festivals, schools, libraries and community events.

Jude is Hamilton's Special Music Ambassador as well as Woman of the Year in the Arts 1992. She has also received the Canada 125 Medal for Community Service and the Hamilton Arts Award 1993. In 1996, Jude performed for His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales during his visit to Canada. She also musically represented Hamilton in welcoming Governal General Romeo Leblanc and Prime Minister Jean Chrètien. Jude authored and performed the song "Our Millennium" for the Hamilton-Wentworth Volunteer Centre and the Hamilton Community Foundation's local initiative for the country-wide Millennium New Year celebrations. Jude has also been honoured with many Ontario Arts Council awards for her music.

As the founder and director of the MAD Creative Arts School, Jude has helped children explore their uniqueness and creativity through music, art and drama for seventeen years. Jude performs concerts in many schools in the region on a regular basis. Her strong environmental concerns are reflected in her Earth, Sky & Sea concerts, and her children's story The Garden Angel. The Silly Singin' and a Swingin' Children's Show has also become a favourite across the country for children of all ages. Her creative music workshops explore rhythm, melody, and "the song in your heart".