»Latin Manhattan«

When Eliane Elias moved from São Paulo to New York in the early 1980s, she brought with her a classical piano education, her first experiences as a jazz pianist, and a deep understanding of Brazilian musical traditions. In no time at all, she built an international career on this foundation, which began with a brief stint as a singer with the fusion band Steps Ahead, before Elias struck out on her own as a solo artist and bandleader. She has released over 30 albums under her own name, showcasing her distinctive style that blends bossa nova, swing and modern jazz, many of which have won Grammys and Latin Grammys.

The »Latin Manhattan« project marks Eliane Elias’s first collaboration with the WDR Big Band. Vince Mendoza, Composer in Residence with the WDR Big Band, ensures the perfect fusion of American jazz tradition and Brazilian music through his arrangements and takes the helm. Elias’s partner Marc Johnson can be heard on bass.