My guest today is Nicki Denner. Nicki is a passionate pianist, composer, educator and musical director, oh and lest I forget, a tap dancer! Raised in Wisconsin, without examples of what a professional musician looked like, Nicki attended college at University of Minnesota, negating her passion for music and initially majoring in French and Political Science; majors she thought would lead to practical careers. However, the universe conspired to support her to reconnect with her love of music, through the underground tunnels connecting the music building to her dorm. Switching her major to music education, Nicki appreciates the unique skills she learned from conducting and the sensitivity she has for all instruments, both have served her well as a composer and musical director. Nicki tells synchronistic stories of musical doors that opened for her; her determination to nurture her skills and gifts at piano, dedication to learn jazz and eagerness to say yes to all sorts of music experiences. Nicki marvels at how naturally Latin music resonates for her and the awesome opportunity to co-create Cocomama, the vibrant, all-female band that plays their own version of World Latin Music. Check out the show notes to find Nicki's website, Cocomama's website and the current Kickstarter campaign Cocomama is launching. Enjoy the podcast! Links: www.nickidenner.com www.cocomamamusic.com Cocomamma Kickstarter Campaign