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Encanto Brazil is an ensemble of talented musicians celebrating their love of music and culture. As well as being a band, we represent a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection through the powerful and rhythmic storytelling of Brazil.


Founded under the tall redwood trees of Northern California at a North American gathering of Brazilian musicians, Encanto Brazil came about out of a need to break barriers and create opportunities for new voices in a traditional Brazilian music style.


With what began as a common interest among musicians grew into a lively ensemble (primarily comprised of women) focused on sharing and re-inventing the diverse musical traditions of Brazil. Drawing inspiration from forró, samba, choro, baião, xote and many other popular styles of Brazilian music, Encanto Brazil creates an original blend of tradition and innovation.


Incorporated into the initial vision of Encanto Brazil was a commitment to independence and inclusion. Within the typical framework of musical performance; some roles are defined traditionally. Instead, the members of Encanto Brazil have chosen to pursue alternative paths. Each member has taken on the role(s) of performer, composer/arranger educator and/or cultural ambassador, showing that Brazilian music can be enjoyed and celebrated by anyone interested in learning about, respecting and embracing its cultural diversity.


Through their continued dedication to creating authentic experiences and energetic performances that emphasize cultural appreciation, Encanto Brazil inspires countless audiences throughout North America to enjoy dancing, connecting and experiencing the universal language and joy that music offers beyond borders and languages.

Our Mission

Our mission is to show the world how beautiful, diverse, and revolutionary brazilian music and culture are by using live performances, educational workshops, and our community outreach programs.


Music can bring together people with different backgrounds, make them curious about new things and be a way for us to have meaningful cultural exchanges. We want to build relationships that celebrate creativity, equality and mutual respect in all of our concerts, workshops and community events.

The Sound of Encanto Brazil

The music of Encanto Brazil is based on a number of the most well-known musical styles in Brazil.

Forró

Brazil's northern region has a lively dance music style called Forró. It features fast-paced, energetic rhythms and is associated with a strong sense of community.

Samba

Samba is one of Brazil's most recognized musical forms. Samba is typically characterized by rhythmic movements (dance), which are an integral part of the Brazilian culture.

Choro

Brazilian Choro is a highly developed, expressive, instrumental type of music. Often referred to as the "first urban popular" form of Brazilian music.

Original Music & Reimagined Classics

While many of the songs that Encanto Brazil performs will be brand new and composed specifically for this performance, we also perform many of Brazil's classic favorites, bringing new ideas and creativity to traditional pieces.

Meet the Musicians

Adriana Giordano | Vocals

Born in Brazil, vocalist Adriana Giordano brings emotion and authenticity to each performance. The music of generations past of Brazilian legendry vocalists have inspired her, and thus her singing represents the complex and beautiful essence of Brazilian music. For many years, she has become a staple in Seattle's music scene, sharing her enthusiasm through both individual performances, and community music events.

Jamie Maschler | Accordion

Since she was just four years old Jamie Maschler has played the accordion, making her one of the top accordion players in the Pacific Northwest. After graduating from Cornish College of the Arts, Ms. Maschler has received national and international recognition through competition, and has performed as a featured soloist at such prestigious venues as Benaroya Hall and the Paramount Theatre. She helps shape the unique sound of Encanto Brazil as its lead accordionist.

Rosalynn De Roos | Clarinet & Multi Instrumentalist

Producer, bandleader, and multi-instrumentalist Rosalynn De Roos is an ardent supporter of Brazilian music and culture. In addition to performing on stage and producing recordings, she organizes festivals, educates communities about the rich cultural history of Brazilian music, and works tirelessly to introduce Brazilian musical traditions to the people of the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

Meese Agrawal Tonkin | Flute

As a classically trained flutist with extensive performance experience internationally, Meese Agrawal Tonkin adds a sense of elegance and versatility to the band. Studies and performances in Brazil, Europe, and the U.S. have broadened her understanding of Brazilian music and added depth to Encanto Brazil's sound.

Mike Withey | Piano & Keyboards

For life-long musician Mike Withey, combining classical training with a love of jazz, Latin music, and Brazilian rhythms has always provided inspiration for his playing. He developed an interest in Brazilian music over twenty years ago when he discovered Bossa Nova and still finds himself drawn back to those rhythms today.

Adam Kozie | Drums & Percussion

Having had a career as a professional jazz drummer and being involved in numerous musical projects, Adam Kozie provides the rhythmic underpinnings which drive Encanto Brazil's high-energy live shows. His desire for groove and musical exploration helps create memorable experiences for fans.

Martin Strand | Bass

Throughout Seattle's music community Martin Strand is known for his versatility and musicality. As a result of this, he creates creative and precise work that enhances every show. His ability to transition seamlessly between various genres makes him an integral member of Encanto Brazil's sound.