Projeto Novo brings a rich tapestry of cultural sounds to life, performing beautiful songs from Brazil, Mexico, Peru, Spain, Cuba, and beyond, presenting each piece with unique arrangements and blends of heritage and artistry. Singing predominantly in Portuguese and Spanish, Projeto Novo captures the essence of Latin American and Iberian musical traditions, creating a soulful experience that resonates deeply with audiences. The diverse backgrounds of its members and a shared passion for music unites in a celebration of the vibrant, melodic stories from across these regions. Based in San Francisco, Projeto Novo is: Gil Guillermo (guitar, tres, vocals), Erika Onuma (vocals, minor percussion), and Javier Montilla (flute, minor percussion, vocals).
Erika Onuma
Erika is originally from Brazil with a rich Asian and Latin American heritage. She has extensive experience as vocal soloist and choir member, which includes participation in ensembles, such as The Rent, The Guajirón Band, The Coral da Faculdade Ibero-American in São Paulo, The Schola Cantorum of Venezuela, and The San Francisco Choir, among others.
Gil Guillermo
Born and raised in California, Gil brings an eclectic ear and arranging style to Projeto Novo. Mostly self-taught and performing since his early teens, he has composed dozens of originals in English and Spanish for all types of audiences as a solo artist and a group member. Other past and current projects include Iré, El Guajiro, The North-South Combo, Guajirón, Alie and Me.
Javier Montilla
A native of Venezuela, Javier began his musical life in the world-renowned music project El Sistema. He obtained degrees in music performance in Venezuela and the US. He was a member of the Venezuela Symphony Orchestra, Pabellón sin Baranda, Maslanka Woodwind Quintet, The Venezuelan National Flute Choir, and a duo with guitarrist Pedro Andrés Pérez. In Seattle, Javier played with The Agermos CMP, The Mochima Ensemble, and Sabrosón.