Nina DiGregorio is a classically trained violinist, holding a Master’s Degree in Violin Performance. She also holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English. Just out of college, Nina would become part of Wayne Newton’s band. Soon after, she would work with David Foster, and become the solo violinist with Toni Braxton for 2 years. She has performed, arranged, and written music with other iconic artists like Stevie Wonder, The Killers, Deep Purple, Donna Summer, Cheap Trick, and many many more. Nina is also a bass player, a writer/arranger, a vocalist, a pianist, and a music business mogul and entrepreneur. She is the founder and creator of Bella Electric Strings, a corporate entertainment group of players that feature in many shows including Femmes Of Rock, where classic rock anthems come to life with 4 beautiful electric violin players, a full band, and a Vegas-like stage production.
In this interview, Nina tells us about her beginnings in music, the effects COVID had on her business and career, the specifics of how the 7-string fretted electric violin works, and when we might get her solo album of original songs and what it might sound like.
“Eruption” (Van Halen cover) video:
Follow Nina DiGregorio and Femmes Of Rock online:
Hello everyone! My name is Scott Itter, but some know me as Dr. Music. I am a music journalist and photographer out of the Chicagoland area, and I have been in practice for over 20 years. I grew up in the 70’s with two big brothers that showed me all kinds of rock and roll. As I grew older I ventured out into different genres like jazz, funk, folk, and whatever else I could wrap my ears around. As I read every liner note and every Circus and Hit Parader like they were the Old and New Testament, I came to realize that I just love sound and appreciate all the people that create it.
I later became a stay-at-home dad and started honing my writing and photography skills to keep my mind from turning into mashed peas. My kids are now adults, my mind is only slightly mushy, and I am thrilled to have the honor of presenting my work to you!