About

Katia & The Upswing is a dynamic ensemble, specialising in traditional swing and Latin jazz, celebrating the Great American Song Book, perforce for swing dancers of all stripes - lindy-hop, balboa, east- and west-coast swing and ballroom!

Led by the magnetic multi-genre vocalist, Katia Cardenas, this classic jazz combo also performs classic pop, rock and R&B. Whether you’re looking for an intimate jazz trio for your cocktail hour, an evening of Swing dancing, or a high-energy dance party, we got you! Featuring the Midwest’s top players, you’re guaranteed to enjoy amazing music that’ll make your event unforgettable!

Residency

Katia & The Upswing performs regularly at Eagle #34’s First Friday Swings, presented in partnership with Miss Shannon, appearing throughout 2026 on: Jan 2, March 6, May 1, July 3, Sept 4, Nov 6)..

Learn more about events, here.

It all started when…

Jazz vocalist, Katia Cardenas was invited to sing with TC Swing band “Swinging on a Star,” introducing her to the Twin Cities Swing Dance community. With shows at Eagles #34 in South Minneapolis, and The Wabasha Street Caves in on the West Side of St. Paul. In Fall 2023, there was an opening for a new band at the Eagles #34’s First Friday Swings, and Katia & The Upswing was born.

Since then, they’ve performed Eagles #34’s the first Friday of every odd month, in partnership with Miss Shannon. They’ve appeared at TC Swing’s Friday night events at Mall of America, and First Saturdays, Miss Shannon’s Swing Dance Wednesday Night, ss well as weddings and other special events for the swing dance community.