In the world of music, few names resonate as deeply as Sheli Nan. Her extraordinary journey from a young pianist to a renowned composer and educator showcases her remarkable contributions to music and education.
A Harmonious Beginning
Sheli Nan’s musical journey began in New York City. Her early years were guided by Vivian Rivkin, a Juilliard faculty member, igniting a passion that led her to study with luminaries like Dr. Carroll Chilton and Cecil Taylor at the University of Wisconsin, Madison.
Broadening Horizons
Nan’s pursuit of musical excellence took her to the Conservatorio Luigi Cherubini in Florence, Italy. There, she honed her skills and absorbed the rich cultural heritage of classical music. Her move to Greece allowed her to perform and write columns for The Athens News, critiquing classical concerts.
Embracing Diversity
Sheli Nan’s journey didn’t stop in Europe. She lived and performed in Israel for three years, further enriching her musical palette. Her move to Mexico introduced her to Carlos Barajas, a world-renowned pianist and teacher, under whose guidance she deepened her understanding of Latin music.
Settling in the Bay Area
In 1977, Sheli Nan moved to the Bay Area and began performing as Sheli Nan, a name that would become synonymous with innovation in music. Her diverse experiences culminated in a unique sound that blends Baroque, Classical, Latin, African, and Rock ‘n’ Roll influences.
A Composer and Educator
Sheli Nan is both a composer and a dedicated educator. Her book, “The Essential Piano Teacher’s Guide,” serves as a vital resource for aspiring piano teachers, providing practical advice on creating successful music studios and fostering community connections. The guide includes a percussion workshop inspired by her training with Nigerian percussionists Olatunji and Suru Ecke.
Nan’s commitment to music education is reflected in the numerous commissions she has received for orchestral, solo, chamber, and pedagogical music. Her choral compositions, including operas, oratorios, and requiems, demonstrate her versatility and depth as a composer.
Mentorship and Recognition
Sheli Nan’s dedication to her craft has earned her accolades from prestigious figures such as Gideon Waldrop, Former Dean of the Juilliard School of Music, and Laurette Goldberg, Professor of Music at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. Her mentorship under Goldberg, a premiere harpsichord teacher and founder of Philharmonia Baroque, profoundly influenced her musical approach.
Global Performances and Cultural Exchange
Sheli Nan’s music transcends geographical boundaries. She has performed and taught in Cuba, Argentina, Spain, Anguilla, and Mexico, bringing her unique sound to diverse audiences. Her program for young audiences, “LA MÚSICA NOS CUENTA UNA HISTORIA,” introduces children to classical Latin music, reflecting her fluency in Spanish and her commitment to cultural education.
A Legacy of Innovation
Sheli Nan’s journey from the harpsichord to the classroom highlights her versatility and dedication. Her music, rich with cultural influences, continues to inspire and educate. As she looks forward to new commissions and workshops, her legacy as a composer and educator remains firmly rooted in her ability to blend tradition with innovation.
For those looking to delve into the world of music, Sheli Nan’s journey offers a blueprint for success—one that emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity, lifelong learning, and the transformative power of music. Through her compositions, educational programs, and live performances, Sheli Nan continues to shape the future of music with grace and ingenuity.
