Some of the best performers of today’s jazz grace the Healdsburg Jazz Festival, but year-round, organizers present events such as this week’s “Jazz in the Gallery” series featuring Guinga, a famed Brazilian guitarist and composer.
Guinga, real name Carlos Althier de Souza Lemos Escobar, is known for his sultry mix of Afro-Brazilian and jazz music. Guinga was born with lighter than average Brazilian skin, which earned him the stage name “Gringo,” which he pronounces “guinga.” The Rio de Janeiro native learned guitar and music composition at a young age, leading to a five-year study of classical guitar with Jodacil Damasceno, a skilled music professor, performer and transcriber.
With numerous albums under his belt, Guinga has performed with many of today’s best vocalists, as Guinga doesn’t fancy himself a singer. He plays two solo performances at Jazz in the Gallery on Saturday, Aug. 25, at the Healdsburg Center for the Arts. 130 Plaza St., Healdsburg. $25. 7pm and 9pm. 707.431.1970.—Holly Abrahams
