Latin jazz and salsa on the Amsterdam canals
ChaChaChalina presents a mix of Latin jazz and salsa that immediately transports you to tropical climes. Frontwoman Chalina Smit sings and plays congas, accompanied by a band full of rhythmic energy. The concert takes place during the Grachtenfestival, the annual music festival that turns unique locations in Amsterdam into stages.
A band with a story of its own
After reaching the final of the Conservatorium Talent Award in 2020, ChaChaChalina released the EP Mira antes de saltar (2021) and the debut album El Reflejo (2023). The band is working on a new album, Mujeres Fuertes , an ode to powerful female role models. The first single has already been released; the full album will follow in the summer of 2026.
The musicians
The band consists of Chalina Smit (vocals and congas), Gerardo Rosales (timbales and backing vocals), Dani Brands (piano and backing vocals), Mauro Mendez (baby bass and backing vocals), and Yiannis Marinos (trombone and backing vocals). Together, they form a powerful whole that intertwines Latin rhythms and jazz sounds.