It all began with swing dancing.
Well. Not exactly. Bandleader and vocalist Gretchen Midgley has been singing since she could talk. A lifelong love of performing took Gretchen from her home in Los Angeles to The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC where she obtained her Bachelor of Music in Musical Theatre and later pursued a Master of Music in Contemporary Vocal Pedagogy.
While obtaining her undergraduate degree, Gretchen discovered the swing dance club and over time became active in the local DC swing dance community. She got involved as an organizer for groups such as the DC Lindy Exchange and the Jam Cellar, and has taught for the CUA Swing Dance Club, the Jam Cellar, Capital City Swing, New Columbia Swing, and more. It wasn’t long before Gretchen realized that her love for dancing and professional background as a vocalist could be united. After attending Welbourne Jazz Camp and learning more about early jazz, Gretchen decided to start a band of her own and the Sidecar Six was born.
Gretchen continues to be active as an organizer and teacher in the swing dance community. She may admit to you with chagrin, though, that since getting on the bandstand she might actually prefer playing to dancing itself! When not bandleading, Gretchen also sings with bands like the Craig Gildner Big Band, the Scott Silbert Orchestra, Scott Silbert and the All-Star Seven, the New Old Fashioneds, and Posey Royale. Gretchen also remains active in the musical theatre community and works as a private voice teacher, teaching primarily Broadway and contemporary styles. When she’s not on the stage or dance floor, Gretchen pursues a career as a musical theatre bookwriter-lyricist, pets cats, and enjoys eating ranch dressing.