Denise Mangiardi Quintet

Denise Mangiadi is a celebrated vocalist, pianist, composer, and arranger whose career has been shaped by a rich tapestry of influences and global experiences. Hailed by Chick Corea for her "beautiful and creative arrangements and renditions," Denise began playing professionally at just 14 years old in New York. She later honed her craft at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, earning a degree in piano and composition. In the 1990s, she was mentored by Ellis Larkins, the legendary pianist for Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Williams, whose sophisticated harmonies deeply influenced her compositional style. Performing alongside world-class musicians, Denise graced iconic venues such as The Village Vanguard, The Bitter End, and The Carnegie Tavern, and further enriched her artistry through studying harmony with renowned tenor saxophonist Jerry Bergonzi, who contributed to her third album, Naked Truth.

A native New Yorker, Denise’s musical journey has taken her around the world, including a five-year stint in New Orleans recording four albums during her time there. Her travels continued for seven years in Paris before settling in the UK, where she earned master’s degrees in composition from Trinity Laban and in film scoring from the Film Scoring Academy of Europe in Sofia, Bulgaria. Denise has performed at renowned venues across the USA, Paris, Australia, and London, including sold-out shows at Pizza Express and The Roundhouse. Her latest album, On the Brink, has garnered critical acclaim, with Nick Mondello of All About Jazz praising it as "an outstanding album" that is "tasteful, elegant, and brilliantly presented." Denise’s artistry continues to captivate audiences worldwide, blending technical mastery with a profound emotional connection.