Jennifer Mendes
Founder and director of Topaz Blue, Jennifer brings a diverse set of skills and musicianship to her a cappella singing and arranging.  With a degree in musical theatre and having performed with the Kirby Shaw Jazz Ensemble as well as the College of Marin jazz band, her love of a cappella and vocal jazz continues to inspire the musical direction of the group.  Jennifer particularly enjoys the camaraderie of ensemble singing and sharing the fun of a cappella.

Sue Ellen Scheppke
Sue Ellen grew up in Texas, where she studied classical piano and violin before becoming a singer.  She has sung professionally with the Ft. Worth Opera, Seattle Opera, and in the full-time chorus of the San Francisco Opera for many years.  In addition, Sue Ellen has performed with choirs and chamber ensembles in Texas and the Bay Area.  Having discovered a cappella quite recently, she has performed with TakeNote for two years and enjoys singing “just for fun!”  A Mill Valley resident, she teaches piano classes/lessons for elementary-age children.

Dave Parisse
Dave has been singing Acapella on and off for a long time. From his college days of the UC Men’s Octet, to Quartets such as the Vocal Chords, Acme Chord Company, and others.  More recently Dave has dabbled in vocal improvisation with numerous folks, including the almost annual holiday group the Ho’s (as in Ho, Ho, Ho – please!). When not singing, Dave can be found pursuing his voiceover aspirations, or traveling, or playing the ukelele.

Mark Shepherd
A long-time a capella fan, Mark was a founding member of madrigal ensembles in the South Bay, and Ottawa, Canada. He has performed in small and large choral ensembles with SingersMarin. He studied classical and jazz vocal technique with Jan Pedersen-Schiff. He currently serves on the board of directors of SingersMarin; other musical interests include playing jazz piano and rock guitar. He lives with his family in Marin and writes software for animation and web design.