BRAZIL + JAZZ: Howard Alden and Jeanne Gies with Choro das 3
A funny thing happened on the way to Sao Paulo: the exciting young Brazilian group Choro
das 3 jammed with 7-string guitar master Howard Alden and innovative vocalist Jeanne
Gies. The result: musical magic, a unique collaboration of genres never before heard on either
continent, and a mutual commitment to record and perform together across the globe. The
Choro is a 100 year old Brazilian music that gave rise to Samba and Bossa Nova. Sisters
Corina, Lia, and Elisa put their own spin on this traditional style with a variety of string and wind
instruments; their father Eduardo provides a fiery percussive accompaniment on the pandeiro.
Unite this group with the freedom of expression exemplified by seasoned jazz players such as
Gies and Alden, and the result is nothing short of electrifying.
Choro das 3 have recorded and toured for several years, and frequently appear on popular
television and radio shows across Brazil. Lauded by music critics, they have been described
as ‘the newest and most talented music in the Brazilian landscape . . .’(Bom dia, Nov, 2012.)
Howard Alden is consistently recognized as an artist of astonishing virtuosity and originality.
He is known for the soundtrack of the Woody Allen movie 'Sweet and Lowdown', and has
numerous recordings with jazz legends such as Benny Carter, Flip Phillips, Dizzy Gillespie and
George Van Eps.
Dubbed 'a pro' by Newport Jazz Festival founder George Wein, Jeanne Gies is recognized
for her full-bodied, emotionally expressive voice and distinctive phrasing. She has performed
and recorded with a stunning array of jazz greats, and is increasingly lauded for her original
compositions worldwide. UK Jazz Waves host Alan Steadman sums it up: 'At a time when
there are many vocalists who think they are jazz singers, it's great to hear someone who really
is . . .'
