A SONG FOR YOU WITH MONICA VASCONCELOS

Acclaimed singer Jacqui Dankworth needs no introduction to music fans in and around Milton Keynes.

But though Jacqui is usually found in the spotlight, she is currently charged with handing the stage to others – as she presents the monthly concert series A Song For You, at Bedford's Ent Shed.

The next gem in the season is set for this Saturday (March 14), with Brazilian singer Monica Vasconcelos taking the stage.

'Rise Up and Dance! Brazilian Freedom Songs' is a celebration of songs penned by some of the giants of Brazilian music in response to the 21 years of dictatorship, which began in 1964.

The project has previously been staged at prestigious concert venues across the country, including London's Kings Place.

Monumental songs addressing the universal themes of love, justice and freedom will be cut loose at the venue, on the Castle Road.

Recent shows hosted under the same A Song For You banner have featured vocalists Ian Shaw, Natalia Williams and Charlie Wood.

Among a fruitful, varied career Monica has accumulated plenty of album releases, supported artists including Bryan Ferry and Flora Purim, and performed at UK jazz festivals including Brecon and Cheltenham.

She also enjoyed a musical partnership with celebrated musician and Soft Machine founder Robert Wyatt who remains a fan of the lady he declares is a 'beautiful vocalist'.

Tickets for Saturday's show are a snip at £11 (with no hidden booking fee).

Book yours by clicking to Perdido Records event tickets from TicketSource | The Online Box Office System