Kevyn Lettau graces jazzfest opening

MANILA, Philippines - Brazilian jazz vocalist Kevyn Lettau (photo) performed recently at the opening of the Philippine International Jazz and Arts Festival (PI Jazzfest) in Eastwood City, together with other renowned jazz performers such as The Brass Munkeys, Dino Fiumara, Dave Eggar with Deoro and The Executive Band.

Besides jazzing up the PI Jazzfest’s kick-off, Lettau is conducting a series of jazz workshops and performing in one of the festival’s main events, the International Jazz Gala today at the Rockwell Tent.

Globally recognized as a vocalist with a unique personal style, Lettau has blended many different popular song elements into the jazz idiom. She got her big break when legendary Brazilian pianist and bandleader Sergio Mendes discovered her in 1984. From then on, she toured and recorded with Mendes that lasted for eight years. Al Jarreau was also her mentor and friend and Kevyn has toured and performed regularly with him over the years.

Meanwhile, the Lifetsyle Network is participating anew in the PI Jazzfest. It brought the renowned British contemporary jazz band Acoustic Alchemy, among others, to the event ABS-CBN Jazz Gala last Feb. 24 at the Newport Performing Arts Theatre, Resorts World Manila.

The PI Jazzfest is this year’s biggest gathering of local and international jazz artists. For details, log on to www.pijazzfest.com or e-mail [email protected].