Nadine Jansen

JANSEN, Nadine
A jazz genius who performed for 5 decades in the Phoenix area, passed in her native Northern California August 7, 2008 at age 79. Nadine was a super-wonder of the music world, renowned for playing piano with the left hand and trumpet with the right at the same time, and for her lustrous vocals. She was a gifted musician and known for her clever wit. Born and raised in Sacramento to Joseph and Mildred Jansen, Nadine attended Sacramento City College and San Jose State College until being discovered in the 1950's by famed bandleader, Horace Heidt. She was featured on tours with his orchestra for several years. In 1959, Nadine relocated to Phoenix and throughout the years performed to SRO audiences at various clubs and restaurants. In the 80's she performed a Gershwin tribute with the Phoenix Symphony Orchestra and concertized with Marian McPartland and Judy Roberts. Nadine's final steady-gig years were at J. Chew & Co. in downtown Scottsdale where she packed the tiny tavern to overflowing. Nadine will be forever loved and missed by her sister, Betty Jansen Culbertson, and her 3 nephews and their families. A Graveside Service at 11:00am, Monday, August 25, 2008 at the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Sacramento. A public Celebration of Life jam session is being planned in Phoenix, AZ for early next year with proceeds going to Nadine Jansen Jazz scholarship administered by Young Sounds of Arizona, c/o Professional Musicians of AZ, Local 586 AFM, 1202 E. Oak St., Phoenix, AZ 85006. For further information call Chapel of the Lakes, 707-263-0357 707-994-5611 or visit www.chapelofthelakes.com