Loire (Lori Cotler)
Loire, (born Lori Cotler) is a Jewish American Rhythm vocalist, composer, recording artist and educator known for her outstanding Konnakol and Scat singing abilities. Loire coined the term "Rhythm vocalist" to Describe her dedicated usage of the two techniques as a performance role in musical settings. Born in New York City and raised in Roslyn Estates, New York, she began studying piano at age six and began writing songs at 11.
Education
Loire attended a gifted magnet school for the performing arts called Long Island High School for the Arts and was chosen as honorary speaker and performer at the graduation ceremony. She went on to earn a Bachelor's degree of Music from Berklee College of Music in Boston, followed by a Master's Degree in Music Therapy from New York University.
During her teens her Jazz mentor Dave Burns introduced Loire to scat singing, which similar to Konnakol, demanding the vocal reproduction of complex and often up-tempo instrumental material. Other important teachers include, Piano and Harpsichord virtuoso Barbara Kupferberg and Jazz Vocalists Bob Stoloff, Mili Bermajo, and Dominique Eade.