Bossa nova first became popular in Europe and the United States in the 1960s with the song “Girl From Ipanema,” which won a Grammy for Record of the Year in 1965. With its sophisticated mix of samba rhythms, jazz-inspired harmonies, beautiful melodies, and the relaxed “vibe” that’s so characteristic of this music style, bossa nova continues to influence music all over the world.

“While one of my passions is to write new music, honoring my roots – my Brazilian upbringing and my background in jazz and classical music – has always been important to me,” says Maya. “That’s why I started this project. And, also, because this music is just so gorgeous! I’m originally from Rio de Janeiro, Zona Sul, the birthplace of bossa nova, where I became a student of the legendary Brazilian pianist/arranger Luizinho Eça, founder of the famous Tamba Trio. I was also lucky to have met the legendary guitarist/songwriter Baden Powell, who generously mentioned my name at a few of his shows.”

When asked by her father if Maya could sing, Powell declared, “She sings like a bird.”