Of her outstanding achievements was performing her One Woman Caberet in the Persian Gulf for over 70,000 troups during Operation Desert Storm. She has appeared on television in Made in New York (WNYW), Spotlight on Theater, and Morgen Magazine (Berlin). Tena sings in German, Italian and English, spirituals, show tunes, art songs, and gospel music. Her voice talent can be heard on the radio drama Body Love. She was a featured actress in Birmingham's Aldridge Theater production, "Rhythm & Roots."
Each Sunday morning you can hear Tena share the joy and love of her heart at Unity Church on Highland in Birmingham. Tena is a great healer of the heart and Spirit as she shares her genuine love of all people through her singing…
Tena Wilson, a Birmingham native, has shared her love
of music and the joy of making a difference in the world through her active career. Her experience ranges as a professional songstress from Off-Broadway in NYC to international tours throughout Europe, Israel, and Japan.
LaDonna Smith is well known as an improvising violinist, violist, and string artist. A pianist since childhood, she loves to spend hours late at night with the Grand Piano, which brings an undefinable joy to her already rich musical life. With her collaboration as Tena's accompanist, and as a solo pianist, creating expressive sound textures and improvisations, she has blossomed into a new direction in her already distinguished musical career.
Grand Times creates an intimate musical experience, for sharing special the joys and occasions of life, in a private atmosphere, a quiet chapel, or in elegant and festive settings as entertainment for social gatherings and special events.
One of Tena’s greatest gifts to the world is the gift of her violinist son Tory Malavet. As Tory shared with me the other day…He just loves Music, and I quote…
“ If I did not have music, I don’t think I could survive.”
Tory studies classical & jazz violin with LaDonna, who is (among other things) a teacher as well as an artist. He frequently joins Grand Times, adding his rich
violin sound and melodies to the music.
When requested, the Grand Times may also bring along a jazz bassist and drummer when a larger ensemble is needed. And, although we much prefer, the grand piano, LaDonna can always provide an electronic grand, if needed.
And as for Tena,
"She is singer, and therefore capable of anything."