Carolyn Maillard was born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In high school she began playing violin, and through her hard work and effort landed a scholarship and violin performance at Catholic University of America. She eventually changed her major to theater and joined the drama department. While studying at Catholic, she landed an audition for the newly formed DC Black Repertory Theater and began her training as a professional actress. It was there that the very beginnings of the internationally known and Grammy nominated vocal ensemble, Sweet Honey In The Rock began.
Carol eventually moved to New York to pursue her career as an actress and worked on and off Broadway, national and regional tours, commercials, TV, and film. She also used her vocal chops in cabaret performances and as a background singer.
Carol Maillard returned to SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK® in 1992 and has been a member of the group since that time. She presently serves as a creative consultant for the group. She has produced several recordings and productions for the ensemble. She presently resides in New York City, and is the mother of amazing violinist and producer, Jordan Maillard Ware.