Who is Nina Ferro?
A Singer since before she could speak, a good friend who wouldn’t survive without the amazing Women in her life. Loves music, travelling, reading, movies. A daughter, a sister, a collector of memories. A writer, a creator, a lover.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
Not a lot as it happens. If you asked what I would do differently from what I did two decades ago, then I would that as a Woman in the world and the music industry, I am now standing up for myself and for the things I believe in way more. I am comfortable with who I am and who I’m becoming. I’m still working on the idea that I don’t have to be perfect, that I can show up imperfectly and still be respected, relevant and loved.
Who inspires you and why?
Apart from my seriously kick-ass amazing female friends who constantly make me laugh, grow and hold me accountable to myself, I’m inspired by the stories I hear and read. Everyone can be an inspiration and most often the people that inspire the most change in me are not celebrity types. The few ‘celeb’ types that I do find very inspiring are Brené Brown, Elizabeth Gilbert, Cheryl Strayed and Tara Mohr.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
In some ways I’m already doing it, in a Nina-shaped way by using my voice to to comfort and inspire others. Again, as a Women in the Music Industry, I would like to think that when I go I’ve left our music community in a better state than when I found it. It means having the courage to ask for the things I need and to stand up to injustices. Hopefully through my actions I am giving others (in particular younger women) to have the courage to do the same.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Italy… all of it! I am a first gen Aussie to Italian Parents. Although I’ve travelled all over the globe and lived in places like the UK and China, Italy still makes my heart sing!
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Well, I used to take them on The Tramcar Restaurant, but they’ve stopped it. I’m gutted about that, it was always such a Melbourne specific thing to do with people. Other than that, time depending, I take them to St Kilda, Brunswick St Fitzroy, the Peninsula Hot Springs, Gigs at all my fav venues, dinners at my fav restaurants and sometimes even the Neighbours tour!!
What are you currently reading?
I’ve been reading some biographies of late… Dave Grohl, Michael J Fox, Phil Collins, Carole Bayer Sagar and crime fiction.
What are you currently listening to?
At the moment I’m listening to a Melbourne-based Aussie ensemble called Luoda. I’ve just joined their group which includes 4 part vocals… So have been learning their material for gigs coming up. They are fabulous!! Other than that I’m listening to Eloise – Drunk on a Flight, Brett & Kate – Start Again (Another Aussie duo), Holly Walker – Unsung and Kirk Franklin’s latest offerings!!
Happiness is?
A good night’s sleep, a cup of Earl Grey Tea and the sun on my face. After that, happiness is the act of singing for me… It can feel like flying!
What does the future hold for you?
Hopefully more of everything that’s good! Some travel, and new performance opportunities. I have new music being released this year, so I’m very excited about that. Plus I’ve also been producing a new show called A Century of Women in Song – taking a trip through the 20th century and performing the songs from some of the most Iconic female singers & songwriters that have influenced me most! Those details are all on my website: www.ninaferro.com
Nina can be seen in an unforgettable double bill with the jazz infused Jewish melodies of the Joshua Moshe Quartet – to celebrate the opening of The Count’s for 2024 on Wednesday 21 February at The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts, Monash University, Clayton. For more information, visit: www.monash.edu for details.
Image: Nina Ferro (supplied)