“The history of jazz would be incomplete without Panamanian artists,” stated Pérez at the festival’s opening, mentioning Billy Cobham, Alex Blake, and Rubén Blades, and announcing Luis Russell-an influential pianist, composer, and bandleader who was Louis Armstrong’s longtime musical director-as this edition’s honoree. Scholarships totaling approximately $50,000 were awarded to outstanding students for studies at Berklee College of Music and New England Conservatory, offering opportunities for growth and learning.Īlso of prime importance is Panama itself. Air Force base formerly known as Fort Clayton).
#Panama city jazz festival 2023 full#
Music education and outreach are paramount concerns, with the festival offering five full days of clinics, master classes, and symposia at the City of Knowledge (a decommissioned U.S. It was founded in 2003 by renowned Panamanian pianist-humanitarian-educator-activist Pérez and his wife, Chilean saxophonist-educator-music therapy advocate Patricia Zárate (who serves as the festival’s executive director) with the mission of inspiring, educating, and building a better future for individuals and communities through jazz. The festival is the largest cultural event in the region. 16-21) featured venerated Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés, now 81 vocalist Catherine Russell, daughter of Panamanian jazz pioneer Luis Russell Children of The Light, the supergroup of Danilo Pérez, John Patitucci, and Brian Blade the intriguing Global Jazz Womxn, and much more-over 100 events, drawing 40,000+ people. It was a tremendous success that seemed to have a profound impact on each and every participant: musicians, staff, and audiences.īack in full force after a challenging 2022 edition heavily impacted by COVID-19, the six-day event (Jan. Maintaining its strong focus on music education and cultural exchange, the festival is supported by a dedicated, highly competent team, including hundreds of volunteers and leadership that advocates for the integration and empowerment of women. It presented a plethora of musical, educational, and cultural offerings, with stellar performances by an impressive roster of local and international artists.
Celebrating its 20th edition in January with verve, variety, and heart, the Panama Jazz Festival is a musical, cultural, and organizational wonder.
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