Spending some time with Tenia Nelson during Women’s History Month

Whether you catch her at Nocturne, Dazzle, Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox, or any other venue around town, you won’t be disappointed when you hear Tenia Nelson.  This leader of the Denver based group Spherio is not to be missed.

I asked her recently about some of her Sheroe’s in jazz, her inspirations and more.

My Sheroes in Jazz: 

Man…..I have so many that I love and adore!! For starters Mary Lou Williams, Lil Hardin Armstrong, Melba Liston, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Marian McPartland, Tia Fuller, Alice Coltrane, Shamie Royston, Elthopia Fuller, Dianne Reeves, Ellyn Rucker, Carmen McRae, Terri Lyne Carrington, Esperanza Spauding, Patrice Rushen, Renee Rosnes, all of the AWESOME ColoRADo Jazz Ladies!! 

What Got You Interested In Jazz?

My Mom and Dad ALWAYS played Miles Davis in the house when I was a child. That was their favorite jazz musician to listen to. Eventually when I was a teen I really got interested in Miles Davis and Jazz. Christmas 1997 my parents gifted me the Miles Davis Kind of Blue CD. This was MY first jazz album and still one of my faves! Thanks Mommy and Dad!!

What Is Your Favorite Jazz Song? 

I do not have a favorite but I love anything from the Great American Songbook, Cole Porter, Thelonious Monk(well of course…..lol), Charles Mingus and Mary Lou!!

What Inspires You About Jazz?

That there are so many types of Jazz to have fun and create with!! Never a dull moment(I am NEVER BORED…ha ha) in this awesome and American art form! I also love the fact that we can teach Jazz at such an early age!! I am all for teaching the babies!!

You can find out more about Tenia at her website.