Dona Francisca
Forró by the Bay
Formed in 2013 Dona Francisca was born of the encounter of Paulo Presotto and his musical partner and drummer Chris Thomas with Jazz Flutist Rebecca Kleinmann and Accordion Player Diana Strong.
Paulo & Chris connection started with former SF local group Forró Brazuca, that was founded by Brazilian Accordionist and Forró Pioneer Francelino Alves. After Francelino’s departure to Brazil the search for a local accordion Player started. Diana Strong emerged from the Balkan scene, bringing great influence from Eastern European music and her interest for Brazilian Forró. Rebecca was already involved in the Brazilian Jazz scene and was a familiar face around the Bay Area music scene.
Their monthly nights featured Forró Dance Classes followed by live music performances. This was a catalyst for the growth of a solid community of dancers and new fans of Forró music. In 2017 Dona Francisca released their first record “Forró by the Bay” and are now playing numerous shows to support the new album.
You can catch them once a month at Amnesia in SF, or on July 21 opening for SILA and Lago Roots at the Independent in San Francisco
www.donafrancisca.rocks
www.forrobythebay.com