The half Cuban Gingi Lahera is one of the top performers on the Chicago musical scene. Equally at home in an intimate Cabaret setting or an energetic big band presentation, her rich repertoire ranges from classic American jazz and swing songs to Brazilian tunes sung in the traditional Portuguese. Miss Lahera inaugurated the Late Night Torch Singing Series and is a favorite featured a capella vocalist at the Poetry Slam at the city's famous Green Mill.

Since 1995, Gingi has been a featured performer with Bradley Williams and his Original 21st Century Review in both the ten-piece and smaller incarnations of the group. With the 21st Century Review, she has played some of Chicago's finest jazz clubs including: the Jazz Showcase, Green Dolphin Street, Pop's for Champagne, and the Green Mill. Gingi and the 21st Century Review were also privileged to perform at the first Jerusalem Jazz Festival in 1999.

Gingi Lahera also performs with guitarist/vocalist Paulinho Garcia. Paulinho, a master of the art of Brazilian music, has been Gingi's teacher and singing partner for many years. In 2004 they were featured together at the Brazilian Festival held at the Hot House, and at a concert recreating the music of Antonio Carlos Jobim for the Brazilian Cultural Center at the International House.

Go to the calendar page to see where Gingi and Mike will be next.  The innovative duo were invited to open for world renowned jazz pianist Brad Mehldau and his trio at the Old Town School in April of 2005. Gingi and Mike have released their debut CD  "The Night's Womb and The Morning Sun" available at CD Baby.

(photo by Michael Jackson)