Dois no Choro was formed in 1997, and is comprised of Julie Koidin, flute, and Paulinho Garcia, guitar and vocals. After hearing a CD of Brazilian flutist, Altamiro Carrilho in 1995, Julie began her interest in and dedication to Brazilian choro music (a genre originating in Brazil in the late 1800s, mixing African rhythms and European dance melodies). She met Paulinho Garcia, Chicago's best Brazilian guitarist/vocalist in 1997, and their duo was formed.

​

Since then, their performances include WFMT-FM radio, tours in Ohio, New York, and at locations in Chicago such as the Chicago Cultural Center.   As a duo, they have recorded 3 CDs:  "Carinhoso" (1999, Jazzmin Music); "Juntos" (2002, Jazzmin Music); and "Asa Branca" (2009, Laughing Buddha Music).  "Juntos" has the special participation of legendary choro flutist, Altamiro Carrilho, as well as pianist Maria Teresa Madeira.  "Juntos'" the title track (a/k/a "Chorinho pra Nós") was written by Paulinho Garcia for Altamiro Carrilho, and received an honorable mention in the Chorando no Rio competition (2002, Rio de Janeiro).   "Juntos" (the album) was in the first round nominations of the 2003 Latin Grammy Awards and like "Asa Branca" - received a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.  Since 2002 Dois no Choro has been on the Illinois Arts Council's "Arts Tour Roster" - and they have performed at various schools, festivals and libraries throughout Illinois. 

 

The name "Dois no Choro" means "Two in Choro" in Portuguese. The sound of Julie's flute intertwining with Paulinho's suave vocals and rhythmic guitar creates a blend that is perfectly balanced and reminiscent of a warm Rio night.

Dois no Choro presents a broad range of Brazilian repertoire, featuring both traditional choro (Pixinguinha and Jacob do Bandolim) and contemporary choro (Hermeto Pascoal and Paulinho Garcia). They also perform other Brazilian styles such as samba, frevo and bossa nova, including favorites by Tom Jobim such as "Girl from Ipanema," "Inútil Passagem," and "Corcovado." 

Dois no Choro's repertoire is rich and varied, and in addition to Brazilian genres, includes selections from Argentina (tangos and zambas), as well as from Puerto Rico and other South American countries.

Dois no Choro is available for educational programs, concerts, and corporate and private functions.