Petra van Nuis is a fresh voice on the Chicago jazz scene. Inspired by such greats as Peggy Lee, Chris Connor, Shirley Horn, Chet Baker, Billie Holiday, and Julie London (just to name a few!), she opts for a straightforward swinging delivery with an emphasis on feeling. Relying only on the deep belief in the music she sings, her approach is simple and without affectation. Her warm intimate sound has just a touch of breathiness. Petra is a true romantic and the timeless music of the Great American Songbook is what inspires her creatively. She enjoys unearthing obscure songs and her extensive repertoire is both impressive and unique. While steeped in tradition, Petra expresses her originality in the best sense of the word, by being true to herself. This sincerity is felt by audiences and musicians alike. Petra is a musicians' singer who would rather focus on the music than on the spotlight. Wherever she sings, Petra connects with people.
Since relocating to Chicago in late 2003 with her husband, guitarist Andy Brown, Petra has performed at such prominent venues as the Chicago Cultural Center, the Green Mill, Pops For Champagne, the Pump Room, Andy's Jazz Club, the Signature Lounge at the Hancock Tower, the Drake Hotel, Katerina's, La Piazza Sotto Jazz Club, Pete Miller's Steakhouse, and Philander's with such well-known Chicago musicians as Bradley Williams, Russ Phillips, Art Davis, Stewart Miller, Judy Roberts, Kelly Sill, Dennis Luxion, Jim Cox, Dennis Carroll, Tom Hope, George Fludas, John Otto, and Rob Amster. Petra has also appeared at the Richmond Jazz Fesival and the Tribute To Bix Festival.
