Get ready for a night of incredible music where they'll play timeless tunes from Jobim, classic Beatles songs, and their own compositions on piano and guitar. Rique Pantoja, originally from Rio de Janeiro, is a skilled composer, singer, and jazz pianist with many years of experience. He started his musical journey at Berklee College of Music and later collaborated with jazz legend Chet Baker in Paris. Rique has made a mark in Brazilian jazz and worked with the most important Brazilian musicians (Milton Nascimento, Ivan Lins, Gilberto Gil, Djavan, Gal Costa, Chico Buarque, Airto & Flora Purim, Gonzaguinha and Tim Maia), as well as international artists including Carlos Santana, Gloria Estefan, Ricky Martin, Alejandro Sanz, Yasuko Agawa, classical guitarist Christopher Parkening, Abraham Laboriel, Ernie Watts, Lee Ritenour, Frank Gambale, Alex Acuña, Kirk Whalum, Don Grusin, Brandon Fields, Justo Almario, Luis Conte, Steps Ahead - Mike Mainieri, Sadao Watanabe, and Israel Houghton to name a few...
read more
Get ready for a night of incredible music where they'll play timeless tunes from Jobim, classic Beatles songs, and their own compositions on piano and guitar. Rique Pantoja, originally from Rio de Janeiro, is a skilled composer, singer, and jazz pianist with many years of experience. He started his musical journey at Berklee College of Music and later collaborated with jazz legend Chet Baker in Paris. Rique has made a mark in Brazilian jazz and worked with the most important Brazilian musicians (Milton Nascimento, Ivan Lins, Gilberto Gil, Djavan, Gal Costa, Chico Buarque, Airto & Flora Purim, Gonzaguinha and Tim Maia), as well as international artists including Carlos Santana, Gloria Estefan, Ricky Martin, Alejandro Sanz, Yasuko Agawa, classical guitarist Christopher Parkening, Abraham Laboriel, Ernie Watts, Lee Ritenour, Frank Gambale, Alex Acuña, Kirk Whalum, Don Grusin, Brandon Fields, Justo Almario, Luis Conte, Steps Ahead - Mike Mainieri, Sadao Watanabe, and Israel Houghton to name a few. In this exceptional performance, Rique will highlight his musical mastery on piano and vocals, blending Brazilian influences with jazz sophistication. His original compositions, known for their cool beats, passion, and unique melodies, have gained worldwide recognition. Joining Rique is the renowned guitarist Marcus Gerakos, who has collaborated with Grammy-winning artists and played alongside jazz legends. Marcus is recognized as one of the top guitarists in the industry, adding exceptional skill and artistry to the Brazilian Jazz experience. With Marcus's impressive solo career and Rique's international acclaim, this duo promises a magical evening of music that transcends borders. Do not miss the chance to experience the fusion of Brazilian rhythms and jazz at The Merc!
show less