Marcele Berger is a Brazilian singer-songwriter who built her career in the United States, performing at the Kennedy Center, studying at Berklee College of Music, and collaborating with artists in Los Angeles. Her journey reflects the growing influence of Brazilian jazz and world music in America.
If you’re an American traveler who loves discovering authentic global culture right here in the U.S., the journey of Brazilian singer Marcele Berger is one you’ll want to know. From São Paulo to New York, Boston, and now Los Angeles, Marcele’s story blends Brazilian roots, American jazz, and cross-cultural creativity into a sound that feels both intimate and international.
Marcele Berger transformed her Brazilian roots into a thriving American jazz career.
Born into music as the daughter of Brazilian singer-songwriter Claudio Fontana, Marcele Berger grew up surrounded by melody and storytelling. But it was love—and destiny—that brought her to the United States.
A Love Story That Crossed Borders
While performing in São Luís, in Brazil’s Maranhão state, Marcele met Matthew, an English teacher from Pittsburgh who had been living in Rio de Janeiro. Their connection was instant. The couple married in São Paulo in 2001 and, shortly before the September 11 attacks, made a life-changing decision: they packed their bags and moved to New York City.
For many Brazilian artists, the U.S. represents both opportunity and reinvention. For Marcele, it became a canvas.
From New York to the Kennedy Center Stage
In 2002, Marcele was selected for the prestigious Betty Carter Jazz Ahead residency, a transformative program for emerging jazz artists that culminates in a performance at the iconic John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.
Performing at the Kennedy Center is a milestone for any musician—and for a Brazilian artist newly arrived in the U.S., it marked her official arrival on the American jazz map.
Berklee College of Music: A Boston Chapter
After her residency, Marcele settled in Boston, where she received a scholarship to study at the renowned Berklee College of Music. She earned her bachelor’s degree while immersing herself in the city’s vibrant jazz scene.
During her Boston years, she performed in local jazz clubs and recorded “The Moment” with Berklee saxophonist and faculty member Dan Moretti—further solidifying her presence in the American jazz community.
For U.S. travelers visiting Boston, this is a reminder: some of the best international artists are shaped right here in America’s music hubs.
In Los Angeles, she bridges Brazilian rhythms with Hollywood-era collaborations.
Building a Career in Los Angeles
In 2005, she moved with her husband to sunny Los Angeles. Since then, the São Paulo native has performed with various musicians from the Los Angeles music scene and recorded songs for the Sci-Fi Channel miniseries, The Lost Room.
She also co-wrote the song “Amor Puro” with drummer Adam Topol (Jack Johnson), and has been involved in other interesting projects. = In addition to her musical performances and projects, Marcele is a singing teacher, teaches world music to preschool children in Beverly Hills, and “works as a mother” to two children – @marcele_music.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Marcele Berger?
Marcele Berger is a Brazilian singer-songwriter who built her music career in the United States, blending Brazilian influences with American jazz and world music traditions.
Where did Marcele Berger study music in the U.S.?
She studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.
Did Marcele Berger perform at the Kennedy Center?
Yes. She performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts after being selected for the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead residency program.
What kind of music does Marcele Berger perform?
Her music blends Brazilian roots, jazz, world music, and contemporary influences.
Where is Marcele Berger based now?
She is based in Los Angeles, where she performs, records, and teaches world music to young children.
