Eleanor Tallie
As part of its cultural fusion concert series, the Mizel Museum is bringing Israeli-American singer and musician Eleanor Tallie to Denver to perform at The Soiled Dove Underground on Oct. 27 at 7 p.m.
The concert is part of Daniel Pearl World Music Days, an international network of concerts that use the power of music to reaffirm our commitment to tolerance and humanity. Since 2002, Daniel Pearl World Music Days has grown to include the participation of 13,900 performers in 140 countries.
Here, Tallie offers her thoughts and perspectives on music, Israel, Denver and more.
Have you been to Denver before? If so, what was memorable about it?
Eleanor Tallie: I’ve been to Denver about seven times since I moved to the US. [Tallie lives in Memphis.] It’s one of my favorite places in America, and I try to make it through Denver as much as possible. Denver was the first place I came to perform when I launched my solo project in October, 2015. It was the perfect place for my pre-release debut tour. I have fans and friends in this city who are like family to me, and they made sure our pre-release tour was full of fun and love. I’m really looking forward to the show at The Soiled Dove; we’ve got lots of people who are excited for that night.
How does your Israeli background influence your music?
I like using Middle Eastern elements in my music and will be doing that much more with the upcoming album. I’m also incorporating that into my show more with every performance. The songs I write which are inspired by my own experiences in life are also related to Israel, since that is where I was born and raised.
What commonalities do you see in the different types of music you perform?
Mainly, the groove. I love all genres of music, but especially have a passion for groovy genres. Funk, neo-soul, R&B, jazz and any other genres that derive from that same rhythmic family. If it makes me move along to the beat, I’m sold.
What are your thoughts about playing a concert in conjunction with Daniel Pearl World Music Days?
It’s amazing to be a part of an international event which includes so many countries and artists, and which is all based on the common dream of peace. “Harmony for Humanity” is a wonderful reminder of how music can bring us all together. It’s an honor for me to be a part of it.
What is your favorite Jewish tradition?
The holiday meals are definitely my favorite. It feels so good to get together with the family for a special occasion and celebrate together. It’s a tradition that always makes me feel very thankful for the abundance of love in my life.
What is your favorite Jewish food?
Well, most Jewish foods I grew up on are actually Israeli foods which aren’t very well known here, in America. If we narrow it down to just Jewish foods that are well known here, I would say latkes are probably my favorite.
Do you have any pre-show traditions or superstitions?
I’m not superstitious, really. But I do have my pre-show preparations every time. Aside from the vocal warm up which is very important to me, and some stretches to release physical tension, I also try to always get a few minutes to myself and tune in to the feeling of inner peace through the practice of deep breathing.
I love the feeling of getting on stage right after I’ve connected with myself; that way I connect with the audience much faster.
Information: www.mizelmuseum.org or contact Heather Olsen at 303-749-5017 or [email protected].
