Maria Bill sings Edith Piaf.

Edith Piaf, the sparrow of Paris, is something like a big sister to Maria Bill. For over 30 years, she has stood by her side as a figure and through her songs, accompanying her to concert halls and theater stages. Although the Swiss singer and actress places great importance on a distinctly personal interpretation of the songs, she resembles the Frenchwoman in her passion, her tireless dedication to music, and her audience.

Dressed in black, with bright red lipstick and a smoky, emotionally intense voice: "Padam, Padam" – this is how the petite, vibrantly energetic Bill is known as she follows in the footsteps of the Parisian singer. Having come to know Piaf almost as well as she knows herself, she tells the audience touching and emotional anecdotes and biographical details of a life marked by highs and deep crises, thus illustrating the well-known chansons.

Maria Bill's concerts with her very personal Piaf program have been in high demand since the 100th birthday of Edith Piaf. One can hardly tell anymore whether it is Bill or Piaf who is on stage. And somehow, you can feel that Piaf is also present when her life and suffering story is told with so much passion, heart, and empathy.

Two great musicians accompany Maria Bill through this evening: Michael Hornek on piano and Krzysztof Dobrek on accordion.