Denise La Grassa Band

Description

With the impending release of 'The Flame,' Denise La Grassa is ready to showcase the immense power and feeling she breathes into bluesy songwriting and performance.

Influences include legends like Bob Dylan, John Lee Hooker, The Allman Brothers, Otis Redding, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe, as well as contemporaries Beth Hart and Susan Tedeschi. Jazz innovators Charlie Parker and John Coltrane have also had an outsized impact on Denise's sophisticated yet tasty songwriting.

Work Sample

http://deniselagrassa.com

All media of songs and live performances are from shows at notable Chicago and Central Illinois Venues. We'll perform again at House of Blues and on the Chicago River stage at the Northman.

My recent works were inspired by my immigrant mother and her reaction to the current state of American liberty.

History

I have been performing original music shows and theater shows for over 30 years. I've recorded 5 albums and currently mixing the sixth. My experience as a music educator includes leading a music program at Lincoln College, Lincoln, IL. The school closed in May of 2022 due to Covid and a Cyber attack. I worked with students to create original music and music revue productions, live and film.

Artistic Vision

I create music with the goal of uplifting, healing and educating audience members.

Programs for Specific Audience(s) Expertise

I have my doctorate in Jazz Studies and can lecture for anywhere from 10-50 minutes. I'm able to teach audience members how to compose music.

Traditional Folk/Ethnic Artform Statement

I perform blues music in the tradition of early blues combined with contemporary soul/blues. My Scottish heritage plays a role in the folk-style of music I compose.