Camille Nelson is a classically trained violinist and accomplished guitarist. Her first CD, First Words, was released Jan. 20. Nelson’s pop/rock/folk style has been influenced by artists including Sting, U2, Sarah McLachlan and Nik Kershaw. She composed all of her own songs, and the CD was engineered and produced by Nashville producer Giles Reaves for the independent label Dimmi Records.

Much of Nelson’s music relates to her extensive world travel. Although she’s only 28, she has lived in South Africa, Germany, Switzerland and Italy during and after earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Utah and Utah State University. She speaks German and Italian and has been to over 40 countries—travel that has strongly influenced her song-writing.

Nelson has a diverse background. She has performed internationally and hopes that First Words will further establish her place in the music industry. She is also a well rounded athlete, enjoying hiking and skiing, and even earning praise as a competitive runner and triathlete.

Born and raised in Salt Lake, Nelson is the youngest of six similarly musical children. She was strongly influenced by her father, a violist, and her mother, a professional opera singer.

Nelson’s music is fun and fresh. She is an energetic, dynamic performer who relates to her audience on many levels. Her new 12-song CD will no doubt establish her place in the music world.