Monika Brand has loved music passionately her entire life. In her first year of high school she had already begun to publicly perform jazz standards, and held her first solo benefit concert at the age of 16. Soon thereafter left high school early to study at the world-famous Manhattan-based New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, where she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts. During her time there, she quickly gained the attention of some of the famous jazz artists on the faculty-she was hired to sing in one professor´s big band, and was consistently referred by other teachers for prestigious gigs. She started singing at exalted venues in New York like Birdland, The Supperclub, and The Blue Note as a solo artist and featured vocalist in large groups. These experiences helped Monika gain her expert knowledge of the jazz idiom and contributed towards the confidence that is now a signature of her current style.

Following her graduation in May 1997, she continued to perform in New York. Her first post-college success was leading a band at Carnegie Hall´s Neighborhood Concert Series for two seasons. Her work there was an immensely satisfying professional experience, and this episode of her life has had a huge impact on her present approach to music.

Monika Brand produced, performed and released her first CD, Love, in summer of 2000. Comprised of ten songs that she wrote and performed, the recording is a culmination of her immersion in both classic and modern jazz, and her experiences as a performer since the early stages of her life. The compositions offer honest, thoughtful reflections on romance and life, wrapped in the sultry ambience and mystery that is a hallmark of the greatest music in jazz.

Ms. Brand is currently writing new songs and continuing to perform as she prepares to record her next project.