Nathan Hefner
Big Band Music

For over 15 years, Nathan Hefner has been delighting audiences everywhere with the great sounds of an era gone by. It becomes an era revisited when he starts in with his delivery and marvelous interpretation of each song he performs.

As a child, the music of the big band era and that of post-war America captivated Hefner. He began singing in public at age three and playing piano at five. It was only a few years that he began playing and singing. Around the age of 11, Hefner would perform for various civic clubs and events. This continued into high school where he would meet the future members of one of the area’s favorite swing and jazz groups.

In 1992, Hefner and three other schoolmates would form Sentimental Journey. The group was well received and performed constantly in 1992-93. After a brief hiatus, the group came together for a wonderful concert event, “Sentimental Journey-Reunion.”

Hefner kept performing as a solo artist before briefly attending Appalachian State University where the performing kept going. Along with Cathy Eason, the two headlined the ballroom at the Grand Hyatt in New York City. The response was fantastic and Eason and Hefner still perform together frequently in front of packed audiences.

In 1996, Hefner along with Wes Powers and Audra Ratliff teamed up to form a new incarnation of Sentimental Journey. The group enjoyed great popularity and success throughout the region delighting audiences everywhere. In 1997, Nathan had a dream come true when he and Sentimental Journey opened for his idol, the legendary Patti Page. That same year, the trio was part of the entertainment at the opening of Harrah’s in Cherokee where they had a three night run. (The group continued to be a favorite at Harrah’s for the next three years). In 1998, Sentimental Journey had the privilege of kicking off the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, one of the top three largest in the country. The group also had a special request from 1999 Golden Globe nominee, Reese Witherspoon, to be the exclusive entertainment for her wedding in Charleston, SC. Hefner has also teamed up with Lenny Stabile, of Atlanta, GA. to perform to sold out audiences throughout the southeast.

Nathan Hefner continues to keep a hectic schedule, performing nearly 200 shows a year. From performing with the Smothers Brothers to hometown festivals, from symphonies and big bands to small, intimate jazz clubs, Nathan continues to win new fans over with his swinging piano and solid vocals. Most recently, Hefner completed one of three new albums, “Signature” which features his most requested songs and memorable performances. Where the great lyrics and music are performed, Nathan Hefner is there also, with a voice and style as timeless as the songs he sings.

“Hefner’s exciting sound brings to life a show of big band music,
Las Vegas cabaret and pop”
- Catawba

“Hefner’s music is tastefully played with style and grace”
- Enteractive Weekly