Judy Collins to perform at Fox Theatre

For the past three decades, Judy Collins’ clear, sweet soprano voice and meticulous phrasing have lent a distinctive elegance to the varied songs of her wide-ranging repertoire.

A major voice in the folk singer revival of the 1960s, Collins has continued to expand that repertoire, delivering folk rock, show and opera selections, cabaret tunes, her own autobiographical ballads, and increasingly sophisticated musical arrangements.

The legendary singer will perform in Tucson at the Fox Theatre at 8 tonight, and $2 out of every Tucson ticket sale will be donated to the Fox Theatre Restoration Fund. Tickets for the Tucson performance can be purchased online at foxtheatre.org or by calling (520) 547-3040. Ticket prices are $39.50 and $44.50.

Collins is noted for her rendition of “Both Sides Now” on her classic 1967 album “Wildflowers.” “Both Sides Now” has since been entered in the Grammy’s Hall of Fame and in 1975 Collins won a Grammy for her memorable hit “Send In The Clowns.”

Her new CD, “Judy Collins Sings Lennon & McCartney,” is her 44th release, containing several all-time favorites, such as “Norwegian Wood,” “The Long and Winding Road” and “Blackbird.”

Born May 1, 1939, in Seattle, Wash,, Collins grew up in Denver and enjoyed a close relationship with her father, a blind radio personality and bandleader. With his encouragement, she began taking piano lessons at the age of 5, and later prepared intensively for a career as a concert pianist, a path she abandoned in her late teens. She made her singing debut at the age of 17 before an International Kiwanis Club Convention.

After that, she began singing folk music and playing her guitar in Denver-area clubs, with success there ultimately leading to live performances throughout the nation, and the world, television appearances and a contract with Electra Records.

Kathy Engle is a Green Valley freelance writer. Contact her at kengle.earthlink.net.