Pica Pica Winterparade: Sonia Andrade + João Neves/Sophie NakouPica Pica Winterparade: Sonia Andrade + João Neves/Sophie Nakou

Singers Sonia Andrade and João Neves fill the café with warm sounds as part of the Pica Pica Winterparade 2019

Sonia Andrade was born and raised in Rotterdam. She is a true Rotterdammer with Cape Verdean origins. Her musical voyage of discovery began at a young age, when she was involved in various musical projects at primary school. In 2016, Sonia achieved one of her dreams by singing with the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra at the Doelen during the first Sodade Festival. She performs regularly as a solo vocalist.

João Neves was born and raised in Santa Catarina, in the south of Brazil. He was introduced at an early age to the rich sounds of popular Brazilian composers such as Tom Jobim, Chico Buarque and Milton Nascimento. During his music studies at the UDESC in Florianópolis, he discovered the complex harmonies of jazz and various forms of world music, which he has incorporated into his playing. Since then, he has accompanied singers and soloists according to the tradition of Brazilian guitar accompaniment, in search of his own contemporary approach.

From February to April 2019, sixteen of the newest or most interesting venues in Rotterdam are hosting events as part of the Pica Pica Winterparade. Pica Pica (Latin for 'magpie') aims to contribute to Rotterdam's accessibility and diversity as a cultural city by putting these venues on the map. The events include in-store performances by Rotterdam-based singer-songwriters and bands, and exhibitions by local artists.