HILARY PERKINS (aka Nell Robinson)

Co-Founder · Board of Directors

Hilary: she/hers

Born in Alabama, where my family has been for many generations, and into an Air Force family, I learned early to treasure roots and exploration. My parents’ values and sense of justice, their progressive thinking and activism deeply influenced me. 

My early work was in grassroots field organizing for progressive political candidates and causes, with invaluable mentoring from Fred Ross and Larry Tramutola. During the time I worked for Neighbor to Neighbor, I picked up fundraising skills. I took a break to get a Masters in Public Administration at Harvard University, then returned to California to continue with a career in political, educational, and foundation fundraising. My last stint was with Mother Jones Magazine as their Chief Philanthropy Officer. Just as I was tired of this path, my only daughter was entering her last few years of high school. This deep bond we had nurtured for 16 years was going to change radically.

Seeking new ways to direct my love and passion, I took some singing lessons from Cary Sheldon and Laurie Lewis and thus began this exploration of a life in music. I had studied classical music and flute as a child and through college, but when I returned these many years later, folk and bluegrass music captured my heart. My first public song was to my fellow Fellows of the Aspen Global Leadership Network in South Africa! With the great fortune to live in an area with tremendously talented musicians, my collaborations with Jim Nunally and others have been a joy and fruitful challenge. 

I sing in the name of my maternal grandmother, Nell Robinson. I have three solo albums, the first three were produced by Jim. The Rose of No Man’s Land was produced by Joe Henry. Rose toured as a live show, PBS special, and fundraiser for veteran’s healthcare projects. I had the honor of performing at the Millennium Stage of the Kennedy Center, on A Prairie Home Companion, and singing and traveling with Ramblin’ Jack Elliott. Jim Nunally and I have recorded 4 albums, three with our band and the fourth album House and Garden with just our two voices and guitar. I am deeply moved by Jim’s talent and integrity and count my blessings every day. 

Jim and I created Whippoorwill Arts to integrate our activism and music, our life together, and passionate commitment to our artistic community. It’s getting harder for musicians to make a living. We are seeking novel ways to nurture financial support, love, and respect for roots musicians and the lifelong commitment they bring to their craft.