Dizzy’s Club at New York’s Lincoln Center recently was the site for the celebration of Tia Fuller’s third release, Decisive Steps.  The setting sun over Central Park served as the breathtaking backdrop as Fuller and her band mates took the stage.  Proceeding to entertain a full house, Fuller never failed to yield the spotlight to the talented players sharing the stage, one of which was her sister on the grand piano.  Throughout the evening, Fuller’s gift was in full bloom as she alternated between the alto and soprano saxophone, and even displayed her skills playing the flute.

Hailing from a family of musicians, Fuller was raised on the music of jazz greats like Coltrane and Bird.  Graduating from Spellman College with full honors (Magna Cum Laude), Fuller went on to pursue music education in Jazz Pedagogy and Performance from the University of Colorado, also with full honors (Summa Cum Laude).  It’s no wonder that this young jazz musician would ultimately embark on a world tour as part of mega-superstar, Beyonce’s funky all-female band.  On working with the celebrity, Fuller believes that the surprisingly down to earth, Beyonce is destined for greatness.  “Her work ethic is incredible. She strives for perfection and pushes those around her to do the same.”

Curiosity got the better of me and I wondered if the expectations and challenges Fuller may have faced were greater on her as a female sax player.  She shared, “in a male dominated industry, for a very long time I focused on the music, not wanting to stand out. I found my comfort zone after moving to New York in 2000.” Fuller has also played alongside many of jazz great luminaries like the incredible Nancy Wilson.  “She is an amazing, seasoned musician whose regal presence was felt as she entered the studio.” Fuller has also successfully formed an all-female quartet. She says that their friendship transforms into pure energy onstage.

Tia Fuller: the musician, teacher, entertaining dynamo has taken ‘Decisive Steps’ as her rising star continues to climb.

TAGS: Beyonce, Central Park, Decisive Steps, Jazz, Nancy Wilson, New York, Tia Fuller