Samba Brasil: The New Haven Federation of Musicians

Samba Brasil has been called “sparkling... breezy...
sensuous... swinging” as well as “a simmering mix of
Brazilian music and jazz.” Since 1994, the group has
delighted audiences throughout New England with their
fresh variations on the samba - the national dance and
passion of Brazil. Samba Brasil performs their own
original songs alongside those of composers like Tom
Jobim, Ivan Lins and Djavan. A Samba Brasil show
always includes bossa nova, baião, batucada and funk,
and the very special touch of American jazz played by
some of New England's premiere performers.

Samba Brasil features Sao Paulo native Catalina, who
came to Hartford in 1990 after touring Brazil and Europe
with major recording artists. Her rhythmic piano and her
vocals in Portuguese and English are the focus of the
group's excitement. Drummer Gene Bozzi's colorful use
of traditional samba school and jazz styles swings the
rhythm, while bassist Jeff Fuller anchors the bottom with
a typical Brazilian sound. Jazz soloists Tim Moran (sax &
flute) or Jim Fryer (trombone) add both fire and ice to the
mixture.

Samba Brasil was named Best Latin Band in 1998, 1999
and 2000 by the readers of the Hartford Advocate. The
group has performed at festivals, schools and nightclubs
throughout New England