Denise DeFelice
Meet Denise DeFelice,
Library Assistant/Bandleader
Denise DeFelice has worked with music greats Patti Page, Kay Starr and Rosemary Clooney. She also worked on the Mike Douglas Show. Denise works at the Atlantic County Library System/Pleasantville branch as a library assistant. Library patrons might find Denise helping with computer issues, shelving books or helping in the book sale room. She also processes hold requests.
Pictured above is Denise's band, Black Magic Swing Band.
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Were you always interested in music? How did you become a bandleader?
"My dad was a copyist for the Benny Goodman Orchestra. He retired from music when the Big Band Era was coming to an end in the late 40's. Dad died when I was young, so I never got an opportunity to get any lessons from him. But my mom saw that I was listening to all of his records and asked me what instrument I wanted to play. Lawrence Welk was pretty hot in 1957 so my choice was the accordion," Denise tells us.
"I married musicians who taught me how to lead bands and work with orchestrations," she said.
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You worked with many great artists. Can you tell us what that was like? Denise has led her band, Black Magic Swing Band, at many local venues. |
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Auditioning , rehearsing and performing requires commitment. What keeps you going?
"Performing in front of people is exciting. And the band - the people - we all love what we do. The people are so supportive, just like family. I meet all types of people, ages, backgrounds, and nationalities. It's just great fun."
Her coworkers describe Denise as a delightful and organized person, and a pleasure to work with.
Thank you, Denise DeFelice.
