Hybrid Jazz From Trish Hennessey - with Denise Donatelli!

Denise Donatelli has a unique story - and it's such a pleasure to share it!  Picture a little girl in rural Allentown, Pa.  Three years-old and at the piano...with Mom singing in the background and Sister with her Jazz records.  The seclusion of the neighborhood actually helps little girl concentrate...and so she becomes the darling of the region - known for her keyboard skills and keen focus.

For 15 years, Denise studied Classical Piano.  It must have been something in the bloodline - with Dad being able to trace his musical roots to 19th century Italy.  And remember that Mom sang! Whatever the reasons, we should all be grateful that our guest pursued music - but it was not the way that you might think.

After college, Denise married and had children.  It wasn't until her boys were in their teens that she felt led to follow her own passion.  Relocation to Atlanta proved to be a wise. Not only did she find work at CNN headquarters, but she also found herself at a pivotal "jam session" one night - where she was coaxed to take the microphone and sing.  So blown away was everyone in attendance that things fell into place very nicely.  Denise replaced Francine Reed (who joined Lyle Lovett on the road!) at the Ritz-Carlton.  And was able to hone her Jazz skills WELL.

Through contacts via CNN, she moved to Los Angeles and her world POPPED!  Work for TV promos & shows  ("The Simpsons") - that golden voice also was heard on Lexus  & Mercedes-Benz commercials.  The 'simpatico' musicians were also found - and projects were joyfully accomplished.  A few Grammy nominations later (!!!!), Denise is called a "musician's singer" by sax great, Phil Woods.  Listening to "Soul Shadows" (her latest), you will hear GREATNESS (caps deliberate!) :)