Remembering Denis Solee

The Nashville Jazz Workshop community mourns the passing of beloved musician, educator, and friend Denis Solee, whose artistry and generosity helped shape the very foundation of NJW. In the words of NJW co-founder Lori Mechem:

“Just a few days ago, our Nashville music community lost a very fine man, Denis Solee. He was “one of a kind”,  and the most versatile musician I had ever met. Not only was he a master of all woodwinds, but he was also a gifted arranger, composer, artist, band mate, horn technician, and handyman who would do anything for his friends.

You knew that if Denis was on the gig, everything would be great—impeccable solos that were so beautifully played, along with that deep, luscious sound.

Throughout his musical career, Denis played in countless big bands, small ensembles, symphonies, Broadway theater shows, TV variety shows, and more recording sessions than you could imagine. Denis loved it all and made a good living as a working musician.

When Roger and I first opened the Nashville Jazz Workshop in 1998, it was Denis who started writing for all the ensembles we programmed—from Charles Mingus, Art Blakey, and Herbie Hancock ensembles to our Afro-Cuban and Brazilian groups. His arrangements are now part of NJW's legacy. Along with Beegie Adair, Denis was a founding member of the Workshop. He actually helped build out the Neuhoff location, whether painting, constructing a new stage, or making things in his own garage that he thought we needed. It was his home, and he loved teaching and performing there. The students he encouraged and mentored received a deep, deep understanding of what it took to be a well-rounded musician and a good human.” 

We share our condolences with all who are affected by this deep loss, and we celebrate the countless recordings and performances Denis left us with. 

Please enjoy Denis’ musicianship in this performance of “Three Little Words” with the Beegie Adair Trio at the original Jazz Cave.

You can also click here to hear Greg Pogue’s Acme Radio interview with Denis from 2017.