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Teona KontridzeGeorgian and Russian jazz singer
Date of Birth: 23.01.1977
Country:  Georgia |
Content:
- Teona Kontridze: A Vibrant Georgian Jazz Star
- Musical Career
- Personal Life
- Recent Accomplishments
- Legacy
Teona Kontridze: A Vibrant Georgian Jazz Star
Early Life and EducationTeona Kontridze, a renowned Georgian jazz singer and musician, was born in Tbilisi on January 23, 1977. Her musical upbringing was deeply influenced by her family, where her grandfather played piano, her mother was a vocalist, and her father provided accompaniment. As a child, Kontridze performed in a creative ensemble and debuted at the "Slavic Bazaar" in 1994.
After graduating from high school, she moved to Moscow and enrolled in the Gnessin State Musical College, initially aspiring to become a conductor. However, she eventually switched to specializing in pop and jazz vocals. Despite her initial homesickness and struggles to adapt to Russian culture, Kontridze found solace in the vibrancy of the music scene, frequenting the famous "Jazz Cafe" in the Gnessin College basement.
Musical Career
Upon graduating, Kontridze became part of the cast of the musical "Metro," where she impressed composer Janusz Stokloss during her audition. However, after the completion of the project, she faced uncertainty about her future. Inspired by her mother's encouragement, she gathered a group of musicians and began performing songs and giving concerts.
In 1999, Kontridze formed her own jazz quartet, blending elements of drama and jazz. She was invited to perform at the "Gallery" restaurant, where her successful tenure led to numerous private and commercial events. Her unique style and technique, where she employs her voice as a substitute for bass guitar and drums, remains a hallmark of her performances to this day.
Personal Life
Kontridze's personal life has been marked by both joy and drama. She married Nikolai Klopov in 2003, but their relationship was characterized by emotional highs and lows. In between, she had a brief but passionate romance with "Fabrika Zvezd" participant Yuri Titov, which resulted in her pregnancy. Titov initially embraced the news of becoming a father but later decided to withdraw from the responsibilities of parenthood.
Heartbroken and struggling to cope, Kontridze reconnected with Klopov, who stepped up as a father to her daughter, Redi-Mariam. The couple later had a son, Georgy. Despite their challenges, they found common ground in supporting Kontridze's career and raising their children.
Recent Accomplishments
In recent years, Kontridze has appeared on various television shows and interviews, sharing her insights on music, Georgian culture, and her experiences as a mother and artist. She has also performed with her band at private events, including the wedding of Konstantin Bogomolov and Ksenia Sobchak.
Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kontridze remains active in the music industry. She participated in Valdis Pelsh's musical quiz show, acted as a judge on the television project "Big Musical," and performed at the "Karakuz" ethnic festival.
Legacy
Teona Kontridze's vibrant personality, soulful voice, and innovative approach to jazz have left an indelible mark on the music world. As an artist, she continues to inspire and entertain audiences with her unique brand of musical expression and captivating performances.
