© Instrumental Women Project . All Rights Reserved
The Instrumental Women® Project (IWP)
is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) program of
Congressional District Programs
is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) program of
Congressional District Programs
“Much More Than Music, It’s Music For The Cause” ™
In 2007 Jerri Thill is still swinging at the age of 90. This vaudeville veteran was born in Dubuque, Iowa in 1917. For nearly 2 decades, this sweet and feisty drummer/vocalist has been holding her own among an onslaught of new performers. Jerrie has played with countless bands over the years including Ada Leonard's Big Band in the 1940's, and the all-female group the Dixie Belles which consisted of 60 to 80 year-olds who once appeared on "The Tonight Show" with Johnny Carson. The original “El Cid” Sunday brunch began with the Dixie Belles but Jerrie stayed on for over 15 years appearing with her trio Jazz Au Femme and later with Jerrie and Friends. Her signature song "When You're Smiling", has been re-released as a single CD.
