Fans of talented local jazz singer Marie Claire Figadere are thrilled that she’s back home in Ajijic and planning several concerts before returning to her studies in Montreal.
Last year Figadere won a scholarship from Viva la Musica and raised funds through several concerts to enable her to study professional musical theory for a year at a private academy in Montreal. Her diligence paid off and now she’s been accepted on the full-time, three-year Jazz for Vocal Performance course at the University of Montreal.
With her popularity spreading, Figadere and her drummer/boyfriend Miguel Soto released their first CD on August 1. The album also features the Blue Velvet Jazz Trio – comprised of Juan Castañon on guitar, Gilberto Rios on bass and Jesus Eleazar Soto on sax (plus guest guitarist Alvaro Martinez Medeles) – and includes jazz standards as well as funk and afro tracks.
Figadere will present the CD at two formal concerts at the Bravo Theatre in Ajijic on Saturday, August 15, 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, August 16, 4 p.m. Tickets are on sale at Diane Pearl Colecciones in Ajijic and from This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..">This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
“The money raised by the CD and concert ticket sales will be used to help Miguel and I go back to Montreal, where I will finish my studies,” Figadere says. “Miguel is a professional jazz drummer who has taught me a lot about music and especially jazz. He will be working in Montreal and helping me conclude my studies.”
Figadere has already demonstrated that her determination to become a top class performer is unstoppable. Such dedication and hard work is impressive and well worth the community’s support – as well as being a great night’s entertainment.