Today's installment of Better Know a CPJF Artist, Catarina New of Catarina New and Brazilian Touch.

JazzScene: What is your main instrument, or role in your group?

Catarina New: Band leader, saxophonist, and vocalist.

JazzScene: Can you describe your set for those that may not know a lot about jazz or blues music?

CN: We are performing Latin rhythms. Bossanovas, Sambas, and Partido Alto styles that represent the traditional jazz from Brazil. Featuring music by Jobim, Azymuth, Tania Maria, and Catarina New

JazzScene: What inspires you to perform, or compose?

CN: Inspiration to perform and compose is a life-long experience, starting from the time my father played guitar at home or took me to a concert at a very young age.
Studying jazz with great musicians, traveling places around the world performing, or listening to exciting music that moves me.

JazzScene: How did you end up becoming a professional musician?

CN: After completing a degree in music, I was working as an educator. Meanwhile, I joined amateur bands and started performing small gigs that took me to new places and new musical experiences. The passion for developing my skills took me to jazz schools and new challenging projects.

JazzScene: Past or present, where have been some of your favorite places to perform in Portland?

CN:  Jimmy Mak's and Sellwood Summer Park Concert. 

JazzScene: Who are some Portland musicians that were a big influence on you as an artist?

CN: All the members of my group.

JazzScene: If you could wave a magic wand, is there anything about the Portland music scene that you might change?

CN: That all jazz organizations work together and promote on one "channel". One source to go to for the audience to look up jazz events!

JazzScene: If you had to pick one moment or professional accomplishment for which you are most proud, what would it be?

CN: The day I gave birth to my son and stuck with my performing career. Kept it up and didn't give it up! My son and my music is my celebration of life and my biggest accomplishment!

JazzScene: If you could only listen to three albums for the rest of your life, what would they be?

CN:  10.    2 T's with Bob Mintzer and Michael Brecker, Elaine Elias (Vienna 2014) and Cannonball Adderley Quintet in Chicago. Tough question!!! 

Don't miss Catarina New and Brazilian Touch at 5:30 pm on Saturday, July 21st at the 38th Annual Cathedral Park Jazz Festival.