Respiro: Luis Chamis & Stephanie Borgani

Luis Chamis (piano) and Stephanie Borgani (wordless voice) come together to push boundaries in the art of the voice and piano duo. Expressed through intricate arrangements as well as improvisation, both free and structured, “Respiro” explores the voice as equal to the piano, rather than highlighted – embodying a queering of structures that is central to this project. They are deeply influenced by Brazilian instrumental music, contemporary jazz, classical music, and free improvisation.
Both members of the LGBTQIA+ community, the two São Paulo musicians have been working together since 2021.

In 2023, the duo released their debut EP in two parts, Respiro, Vol. 1 and Respiro, Vol. 2, preceded by the singles “Respiro do Mar” and “Mergulho”, respectively. Inspired by the fluidity of the ocean, the album features undulating textures, glassy timbres, and evokes the sensation of relief as the music community re-ignited after two years of pandemic - similar to the relief of arriving at the seashore. This feeling of freedom and acceptance amidst chaos is what the duo hopes to convey to the listener.

Luis and Stephanie’s duo project maintains a home base in São Paulo, Brazil, but is eager to connect with audiences abroad. "Respiro" has performed at various venues in the greater São Paulo area, and in October 2023 also took part in the Instrumental SESC Brasil at SESC Consolação residency with an expanded sextet instrumentation.