As a pianist, singer and composer, Elaine Elias embodies the nature of jazz just as a child embodies the nature of play. A native Brazilian, she followed in her mother’s footsteps and took up music. The deeper she went into jazz, the broader her vision became. Elias studied jazz vocal techniques and polished her piano skills performing at various jazz clubs. As a 15-year-old girl, she already taught piano and improvisation at a prestigious school of music!
At 17, Elias made her first serious breakthrough when she had the honor of working with outstanding Brazilian musicians singer/songwriter Toquiho and Vinicius de Moraes, Antonio Carlos Jobim’s co-writer/lyricist.
In a perpetual search for the unknown, Elias went to Paris where her musical talents were noted by the legendary bassist Eddie Gomez. Thanks to him, Elias moved to New York to become a member of the popular jazz-rock band Steps Ahead. She also played with trumpeter Randy Brecker who became her husband and father of their daughter Amanda. Happy parents, Elias and Brecker released the 1985 album "Amanda" that they dedicated to their charming offspring.
In 1995, she was nominated for a Grammy award for her "Solos and Duets" album which was released with Herbie Hancock. Musician Magazine dubbed the fruit of their creative cooperative work as a "landmark in piano duo history."
In 2001, Elias’ new album "Impulsive" (released with Bob Brookmeyer and the Danish Radio Jazz Orchestra) got another Grammy nomination.
Elias has released 16 albums. Jazz lovers all over the world are especially carried away by Elias’ unique manner to perform Jobim’s music: Her jazz interpretations are up to the mark, as usual!
Elias’ album "Kissed by Nature" came out in 2002. It seems to reflect the main points of her talent: spontaneity, inimitability and the heat of each song. Whatever she performs – straight-ahead jazz or free-style improvisation – she manages to create a kind of musical environment that is cliche-free but meaningful.
Come to Elias’ concerts at Le Club on August 7-9, at 8:30 p.m.