Born on the Greek island of Kefalonia, Maria Markesini seemed destined to be a classical concert pianist. She played the piano from an early age, to eventually settle in Rotterdam to study at the conservatory. Besides the piano, jazz singing was her great but secret passion. On an unfortunate day, just before a classical concert, Markesini seriously injured her hand. She then stunned her audience
… with an unexpected full vocal performance. Her star as a singer was born. She became a phenomenon, with her special combination of a beautiful voice, virtuoso piano playing and a striking appearance. Her first jazz album Kosmo reveals that versatility to the fullest. Markesini sings Greek repertoire just as easily as jazz, pop, gospel and chansons. Moreover, she managed to get some formidable accompanists for this album, such as pianist Bert van den Brink and singer / bassist Richard Bona. She even managed to get Bona to sing a Greek song with her. Maria Markesini makes a convincing entry into the (Dutch) jazz world with Kosmo. (HB)more
