Performing, recording, composing, and now conducting—Chicago-based pianist/composer Jo Ann Daugherty loves all kinds of music, whether sharing the stage with jazz luminaries such as John Abercrombie, Randy Brecker, and Howard Levy, or playing keyboards in shows such as Jersey Boys, Dreamgirls, and Billy Elliot. Other adventures include performing frequently with the USO of Illinois, teaching jazz piano at Chicago’s Roosevelt University, leading her own group at the Chicago Jazz Festival, and jamming with amazing musicians in Madagascar. Jo Ann has released two albums of her own—most recently Range of Motion on Blujazz records—to an enthusiastic reception by critics and listeners alike. A third album is due out in 2012. She is currently traveling the U.S. as conductor of the Jersey Boys second national tour.