The Moipei Triplets, consisting of Mary, Maggy, and Marta Moipei, are internationally acclaimed vocalists and performers hailing from Nairobi, Kenya. These talented triplets, who currently reside in the United States, embarked on their musical odyssey at a young age, participating in Kenya’s esteemed Music Festival competitions alongside their sister, Serafina. Remarkably, they clinched 1st place honors for four consecutive years, solidifying their position as prodigious talents in their homeland.
Driven by their growing success, the Moipei Triplets have graced national and international stages, captivating audiences with their exceptional performances. They have had the privilege of participating in various cultural festivals and conventions held in Tanzania, Uganda, Canada, Venezuela, China, and the United States of America. Notably, their musical prowess earned them the distinction of representing Kenya during the Young People’s Festival (YoPeFe) in South Korea, where they embarked on a triumphant tour.
At the tender age of 12, the Moipei Triplets were appointed as Kenya’s first-ever UNICEF Child Ambassadors, a testament to their profound musical talents and dedication to championing girl child empowerment, education, and alternative rites of passage. Their notable contributions to the Kenyan musical landscape led to their appointment as Kenyan Musical Ambassadors, representing their country at the Second African Cultural Festival held in Caracas, Venezuela. They astounded sold-out audiences in historic theaters and opera houses, including the renowned Teatro Municipal de Caracas.
The Moipei Triplets’ exceptional musical journey has garnered prestigious recognition and accolades. They were honored with the Head of State Commendation (HSC) by the President of Kenya, His Excellency Mwai Kibaki, in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the Music Industry and the Nation. Furthermore, their album “In the Land of the Lion” secured the coveted 2011 Best of Africa category at the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation Awards (SABC), held in Durban, South Africa. Their vocal prowess has been lauded by NATION TV KENYA, likening them to icons in Kenya’s sports arena but for their vocal cords.
Beyond their accomplishments on stage, the Moipei Triplets have performed numerous sold-out concerts, offering audiences a captivating blend of their own arrangements, including Broadway tunes, jazz hits, sacred pieces, and traditional Kenyan folk songs. They have ventured into the world of opera, showcasing their versatility and talent in productions such as “Speed Dating Tonight” with the Alamo City Opera company. Composer Michael Ching even composed an original piece titled “If not now when?” specifically for the triplets.
The Moipei Triplets have had the honor of sharing their extraordinary voices with thousands of NBA fans, performing “The Star-Spangled Banner” at a Spurs Playoff game. They have also presented a program for the President of Kenya at the iconic Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center and collaborated with the esteemed San Antonio Symphony, lending their enchanting voices to the Holiday Pops concert with a specially commissioned arrangement of ‘Let it Snow.’
Their performances have received universal acclaim, evoking emotional responses from audiences worldwide. Esteemed individuals in the industry, such as Stephen Schwartz, have expressed awe at their beautiful and harmonious voices, highlighting their unique vocal blend. The Moipei Triplets’ enchanting harmonies and storytelling prowess have captivated critics, leading to rave reviews and admiration from both the press and audiences alike.
Most recently, the Moipei Triplets made their highly anticipated New York City debut at the Mabel Mercer Gala held at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in October 2021. They swiftly followed this with their debut performance at the renowned Birdland Theater, further solidifying their presence in the cabaret scene. These dynamic artists from Nairobi, also referred to as Veni, Vidi, and Vici, conquered the New York City stage within a mere week, leaving an indelible impression on the audience.
Their remarkable combination of world-class singing, their own bracingly original arrangements, and their eclectic repertoire have garnered critical acclaim. Their performances exhibit razor-sharp accuracy, operatic-level breath control, and stunning harmonies. Composer, author, and reviewer Peter Danish hailed the Moipei Triplets as an extraordinary talent, urging everyone to keep them on their radar due to their exceptional artistry.
Alongside their musical pursuits, the Moipei Triplets have dedicated themselves to furthering their education. They hold a Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Performance Degree from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Texas. Their independent study began under the guidance of their father, Nicholas Moipei, and later expanded to include mentorship from esteemed Met Opera stars, Mary Jane Johnson, Matthew Polenzani, and Faith Esham.
In summary, the Moipei Triplets are an awe-inspiring force in the music industry, recognized globally for their exceptional vocal abilities and captivating performances. With their origins rooted in Kenya and their reach extending across borders, their artistry continues to enchant and inspire audiences around the world.
Denise Donatelli, a three-time GRAMMY® nominated vocalist, presents her latest album, “Whistling in the Dark – The Music of Burt Bacharach.” Released on August 27, 2021, this remarkable project showcases Denise’s lifelong love affair with the legendary songwriter’s music. Produced by the renowned Larry Klein, the album marks Denise’s first concept album dedicated to a single composer and highlights her exceptional collaboration with Klein.
Recorded live at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in October 2020, the album captures Denise’s warm vocal elegance accompanied by a hand-picked all-star jazz/pop quartet. The quartet includes Larry Goldings on piano and organ, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Larry Klein himself on bass and additional keyboards.
“Whistling in the Dark” presents an intimate and soulful collection of Bacharach’s iconic hits, as well as some lesser-known gems. Denise breathes new life into classics like “The Look of Love” and brings her own interpretation to Warwick’s renowned songs such as “Walk On By,” “In Between the Heartaches,” “Anyone Who Had a Heart,” and “A House is Not a Home.” The album also features collaborations with Elvis Costello on poignant tracks like “Toledo” and “In the Darkest Place.”
Denise’s artistic journey leading up to this project has been shaped by her passion for jazz. Growing up in Allentown, PA, she fell in love with the genre, drawing inspiration from vocalists like Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Ella Fitzgerald. After launching her singing career in Atlanta in the early 90s, Denise moved to Los Angeles in 2000, immersing herself in the vibrant music community.
Throughout her career, Denise has collaborated with esteemed musicians and earned recognition for her exceptional talent. Her previous albums with producer/pianist Geoffrey Keezer garnered four GRAMMY nominations, including three for Best Jazz Vocal Album. In 2012, she was honored as Jazz Vocalist of the Year by The Los Angeles Jazz Society. Known as a “musician’s singer,” Denise’s innate musicianship and pure tone have captivated audiences and led to various notable performances, including appearances on “The Simpsons” and TV promos for popular shows and brands.
Denise’s connection to the American Heart Association holds a special place in her heart, honoring the memory of her son.