The Firey String Sistas are making their Philadelphia debut at the Community Education Center on Saturday, March 29 at 7 pm, celebrating Women’s History Month in soulful style. Known for their captivating blend of jazz, classical, and world music, Firey String Sistas bring together dynamic string instrumentation and a powerful feminine voice that redefines musical boundaries.
Meet the Firey String Sistas
Composing the Firey String Sistas are three extraordinary talents, each a powerful force in her own right. Cellist Nioka Workman and pianist-vocalist Mala Waldron hail from jazz royalty—Workman is the daughter of legendary bassist Reggie Workman, while Waldron is the daughter of iconic jazz pianist Mal Waldron. Completing the trio is Detroit violinist Marlene Rice, whose impressive career includes performing with Aretha Franklin. For this Philadelphia performance, the Firey String Sistas will be joined by drummer EJ Strickland, celebrated for his work with Cassandra Wilson and Terence Blanchard, along with frequent guest bassist Belden Bullock (Roy Haynes, Ahmad Jamal).
The Firey String Sistas debut album, produced by Clifton Anderson, titled simply “That’s What She Said,” drew praise not just for its exceptional musicianship but for deeply resonant themes. Standout tracks include Waldron’s heartfelt tribute to her mother, “Ellie,” Workman’s original composition “Shine,” and Rice’s emotive arrangement of Cedar Walton’s “To the Holy Land.”
Reflecting on the ensemble’s mission, founder Nioka Workman says, “I’ve always wanted to create environments where women have a strong voice in music.” True to her vision, the Firey String Sistas have taken their musical message across the country, performing at esteemed venues like the Santa Fe Jazz Collective, the Santa Fe Jazz Collective, and the Santa Fe Jazz Collective. The ensemble is currently working on a new recording project, which will include compositions inspired by the flooding in Louisiana, a tribute to Michelle Obama, and a poignant portrait of Waldron’s father.
The Firey String Sistas’ Philadelphia debut, presented by Leo Gadson and The Producers Guild, is a soulful, musical celebration of women’s influence in jazz history and contemporary culture.
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