Amalia Gre'

Jazz vocalist Amalia Grè completed a degree in theatrical set design at Perugia's Academy of Fine Arts prior to relocating to New York. Following her studies she resided for a time in Rome, where an undernourished passion for jazz came to light. There she trained under local jazz hero Riccardo Biseo while beginning to appear in clubs and theaters. A 1990 vocal workshop led by famed Betty Carter proved pivotal; the singer urged Grè toward a decisive career step with the words "You've got your own style and look. All you need is to learn the language and move to New York." By 1995 Grè had settled in N.Y.C. and commenced lessons with jazz greats Mark Murphy and Bobby McFerrin. Alongside these vocal pursuits she enrolled in acting instruction at the Black Nexxus performing arts school. Her emerging reputation for a distinctive approach and striking stage presence soon led to local engagements that drew the attention of EMI. The label issued her self-titled debut, which moved 40,000 units and secured opportunities to tour the international jazz circuit. Two years afterward came the release of her second solo album, Per Te, which earned her an invitation to the renowned Sanremo Festival in 2007.