Darlene Cooper Official Bio
Singer | Composer | Arranger | Educator
Darlene Cooper is a multifaceted artist whose work is defined by a single core principle: connection. Known for a soulful, sultry voice that navigates Jazz, Soul, Gospel, and R&B with ease, Darlene treats music as an emotional journey. Whether she is leading a full band with a roaring horn section or performing an intimate jazz standard, her goal remains the same—to impact the heart and soul of her listener.
Musical Projects & Discography
Darlene’s creative output is as diverse as her influences. She is one half of the duo Wild Blue Herons (WBH) alongside her husband, renowned musical director and arranger Bill Sample.
2026: It’s All About Love – A groove-oriented album featuring a full band and horn sections.
2021: You & I – An intimate collection of standards inspired by the great ladies of jazz.
2017: On the Outside – The debut WBH release.
2014: Soul Connections – Darlene’s debut solo album, featuring three award-nominated original songs.
Collaboration & Leadership
Darlene has shared the stage and studio with a prestigious roster of artists, including Eric Bibb, Leon Bibb, Shari Ulrich, and Dee Daniels. Her leadership extends into the choral world; from 2013 to 2022, she served as the choral director for the Marcus Mosely Chorale, where she also served as a primary composer and arranger. She helped shape a sound that blended traditional Gospel with contemporary sensibilities. Her song, “Hear Our Prayer”, was nominated for a Gospel Music Association of Canada (GMA) award.
Education & Mentorship
Beyond the stage, Darlene is a dedicated music educator and curriculum designer. She specializes in:
Contemporary & Jazz Theory
Vocal Workshops & The Art of Performance
Songwriting, Charting, and Arranging
Darlene designed and directed music programs at the Institute of Music Ministry (2003 – 2014). She is an adjudicator at festivals like Con Brio and the Surrey Jazz Festival, and she continues to lead Lift Every Voice - Gospel-style singing workshops with Marcus Mosely and Bill Sample that explore the history and soul of the genre.
Community & Advocacy
A fervent promoter of the arts, Darlene co-produces the Inlet Music Series at the Inlet Theatre in Port Moody, BC. Through this series, she brings world-class performances to the Tri-cities, fostering a vibrant local culture for live music.
