DONA CARTER ~ PIANIST/ COMPOSER

Women jazz musicians are still making their mark in the almost exclusive men’s establishment that is known as jazz. Pianist/composer Dona Carter has been
a band leader of small and large ensembles, composing and arranging many original pieces. She has shared the concert stage with many outstanding musicians, performing here in the states and abroad. Thanks to the internet, her music has been played around the world. Her latest CD, “The Best of Dona Carter” with cover art by Sheila Sondik, features many of her favorite instrumentalists. Any one interested in listening to Dona Carter’s several CDs can do so at CDBaby.com, or use the order form.

Pianist Dona Carter with pal, drummer Dave Gibson, featured on her latest CD

She also works with vocalists and actors, as in her recent artistic creation “Portraits in Major & Minor,” where jazz meets theater. This show has been performed in several venues, recently at St. Peter’s Church, after first being produced at Cobi’s Place in 2005. Lead sheets of her songs and instrumental pieces, as well as a detailed bio are available by request. Her email address and contact information may be found below.

Some cast and friends of “Portraits…” from right to left: Bryce Sebastien, Dona Carter, Louise Mike, Brad Hoskins, Tracey Easley, Esther Triggs and Dawn Bennett

Dona Carter has been an educator and mentor to students of all ages, including her son Dahoud Darien, a song writer and producer. He’s written music for two movies: Love the Hard Way and Our Song; his credits include platinum songs as producer.

Here are a few things that have been said about Dona Carter and her musicianship.

The late Charles McGee, whose trumpet is featured on two of her albums said this:  “There’s a magic way that she phrases her melodies.  It was like Beethoven.  You heard her phrasing, and you remembered it instantly.”

(New York Times, February 20, 2000)

Lamon Fenner, WHCR 90.3 FM:  “Portraits in Major and Minor by Dona Carter is a marvelous tapestry of music and voice that lifted my spirit to some beautiful places.” (September 2006)

Susie Siegel, Special Projects, Bryant Park Piano Series 2007:
(Dona’s) “piano playing is great, as always.  We love her.”

In her own words:  “I believe music is a healing force, and I try to dedicate myself to helping and inspiring others with my musical endeavors.  It doesn’t matter if I’m working with professionals, or if I’m with my piano students.  I want to be a creative force for peace and harmony.  Just sit me down in front of a nice piano, and some sweet soothing sounds will soon fill the room.”

Attended Columbia Univ., Lehman College, JazzMobile
Hartford Conservatory of Music, Weaver H.S.
DC Acoustic Designs Association