Weaving heartfelt lyricism into a jazz cadence, Kara Manansala’s music possesses a poetic cohesion, urging the listener to move and feel moved. A Filipino-Italian music maker and storyteller, living and creating in Tarntanya/Adelaide, Manansala’s music has evolved out of a love for neo-soul, R ’n’ B, and jazz, which she studied at Adelaide’s Elder Conservatorium of Music. A versatile and sought-after musician, she has lent her voice to projects including working with world-renowned drummer Alexander Flood and funk band Bend. She was a COMA Emerging Artist in 2022 and performed at the inaugural Adelaide Jazz Festival in 2023. In 2024, Manansala was part of the Nexus Arts’ Interplay program, undertaking a year of creative development, self-exploration and mentorship. She is now entering a new wave of creative expression with a greater drive for authenticity and devotion to her true purpose within the art — to emote, express and connect.

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