Born into a family of musicians, Deena Chappell Smith has been performing professionally since the age of fourteen. Her vast musical background includes performances in Bluegrass, Rock and Roll, Folk, Swing and Jazz.
Deena is well-known as bass player and back up vocalist to her mom in the former “Alice’s Homemade Jam” bluegrass band, playing mandolin and singing in the popular swing/jazz duo with former partner, Nathan Knowles. She has also performed and recorded with some of the area’s most talented musicians including Fred Lantz, Tim Blair, Randy Gates and Barry Hyman. Some highlighted performances include The Clark Art Institute, The Basement Series, Williams College and two tours of the mid-western states. Her original music has been featured on several radio stations, including WEQX in Manchester, VT. Deena now performs her original music solo and with several ensembles. She also sings and plays mandolin in a bluegrass trio; Dirty Old Strings.
Additionally, Deena worked with the Vermont Arts Exchange for six years, running music therapy sessions with The Vermont Veterans Home and songwriting workshops with the children of the public schools throughout Bennington County. She has also done songwriting workshops through the Bennington Library, the Cambridge Library and Pompanuck Farm Institute.
Deena lives in Cambridge, NY and has a Masters degree in Liberal Arts from Goddard College.
"Whether she is playing and singing an original composition of her own or covering a favorite artist, Chappell captivates listeners with her unique and charming vocals... " Have a listen!