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Christina Cusiel’s versatility, control and soaring range reflect her classical training. Her phrasing, feel and ability to improvise effortlessly come from her understanding of jazz, and therefore melody.

Considered one of New Zealand’s leading vocalists, Christina was classically trained from the age of ten. She went on to become a graduate of the Christchurch Polytechnic Jazz School. 

In 1994 she performed at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, with vocal trio Midas Touch, followed by a New Zealand tour, and three opening spots for the legendary Dionne Warwick. 

Christina returned to Wellington following overseas peforming to focus on her original music, travelling with Gary McCormick for his Millennium Mantour, which also starred David Lange and Sam Hunt.

She was named AWAI Wellington Music Awards Female Vocalist of the Yearin 1997, and began working with The Roger Fox Band. This again gave way to the formation of soul-fusion band Lady Marmalade, which also featured Warren Maxwell and Aaron Tokona, and enjoyed the resident band slot at Wellington’s Tattoo nightclub.

The Christina Cusiel Jazz Triofollowed, with James Illingworth (piano) and Drew Menzies (acoustic bass) onboard. The trio was the resident band for Wellington’s Te Papa museum, and performed at Festival of the Arts and the Wellington & Waiheke Island Jazz Festivals.

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The Christina Cusiel Jazz Trio(vocals, piano and acoustic bass) or 

Quartet(vocals, piano, acoustic bass and drums)

ANGELIC YET VISCERAL