Nicholas Denham
The Ledger Independent is publishing a 50/50 series. During this series, readers can expect to see different “Local Talents/Artisans” each week.
Some of the “Local Talents/Artisans” that may be featured will include artists, authors, songwriters and more.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, the general definition of “artisans” refers to a worker in a skilled trade.
Please enjoy Day 49 of the series.
Mason County native Nicholas Denham teaches elementary music classes in a Northern Kentucky public school, holds instrumental music lessons and directs choirs professionally. In his free time, he can be found writing and performing music.
“Sometimes I am fortunate enough to be able to perform in the community where I sing and play a variety of instruments including the saxophone, guitar, and fiddle. I am also quite versatile on the kazoo,” says Denham.
Denham’s love of playing music began 22 years ago when he learned saxophone. Four years later, he picked up a guitar and began performing soon after.
“I began performing very soon after I learned a few chords,” explained Denham. “I have taught in some capacity for the last 20 years, and just finished up my 18th year in the public school system.”
According to Denham, he has always enjoyed making sounds, “much to the dismay of those around me,” joked Denham. “Once I started making music, I was hooked.”
Denham stated that he received a Walkman cassette player for his eighth birthday with three cassettes: The Beatles’ “Red Album,” Michael Jackson’s “Bad,” and the “Ninja Turtles 3” soundtrack. He noted that from that moment on, he has enjoyed singing.
“Music makes me feel. That is why music is so powerful,” stated Denham. “Music helps you feel, it helps you express emotions and ideas. It allows you to be a part of a community. It allows you to be yourself. Music allows you to be someone else. It gives me empathy, compassion, energy, and joy.”
Denham went on to express his gratitude to some individuals who made a difference to him musically:
“Doug Calland started me playing the saxophone on an instrument that had been passed down through the family. My mother reminds me that those first sounds were not the most pleasing to the ear; I think I was required to practice in the barn and the basement,” mused Denham. “Bobbie Zeigler and Jan Applegate gave me opportunities to sing. Bill Jones showed me tunes on the guitar. CJ Hunter and John Zeigler expanded my musical horizons. Genny Jenkins and Eugene Norden helped me focus my passion. Sarah Wood and John Harrod have opened my ears to a whole new world of the traditional music of Kentucky.”
Denham further directed his gratitude towards his parents.
“Fortunately, my parents supported my efforts. All these people gave me tools that I use every day and helped nurture my interest and love in music,” Denham said.
Denham suggests that individuals interested in music find an outlet, such as the local Downing Performing Arts Academy.
To find out more about Denham and his musical adventures, check out Nick Denham Music on Facebook and Instagram, and Amy Don’t Mind on Instagram.
“Feel free to reach out, I always enjoy sharing my love of music with others,” said Denham.
