Jazz Plaza Festival: A Spectacular Fusion of Music and Dance in Cuba

The 39th edition of the International Jazz Plaza Festival concluded with a grand finale, showcasing a rich artistic blend that was a true tribute to Cuban culture. The festival, held in Havana's renowned Avellaneda hall of the National Theater, was a gathering of exceptional talent and celebrated the island's cultural heritage.

Luxurious Musical and Dance Performances

The grand closing event featured a lineup of notable artists, including the celebrated Cuban pianist Roberto Fonseca, who also serves as the festival's artistic director. Fonseca took the stage with the Ballet Nacional de Cuba (BNC), orchestrating a fusion of art and melody that captivated the audience.

The young dancers received standing ovations for their spirited performance to 'Contradanza del Espíritu,' a composition by Fonseca known for its intricate musical prowess. The gala also paid tribute to BNC's 75th anniversary, with Cuban dancer and choreographer Raúl Reinoso presenting 'Apparatus,' a piece that delves into human depth and experience.

Acclaimed Cuban and International Artists

The festival's programming was enhanced by the presence of numerous esteemed Cuban and international musicians from 21 countries, including 92 artists from the United States and 66 international groups. The event was a melting pot of sounds, with performances spanning from January 21 to 28 across venues in Havana and Santiago de Cuba.

Among the highlights were recitals by Cuban pianist José María Vitier and Alejandro Falcón's trio Cubadentro, who, alongside the contemporary dance company Malpaso, enchanted audiences. The stage also welcomed the Estrellas de Buena Vista and more, a group consisting of original members of the renowned Buena Vista Social Club.

Honors and Recognitions

Fonseca was honored with the 'Llave de la Casa de los Autores' award by the General Society of Authors and Editors (SGAE), while Viengsay Valdés, general director and lead dancer of BNC, received a special recognition for the company's anniversary.

Noteworthy was the slogan 'Pa’que flujazz a nuestro ritmo,' reflecting the festival's celebration of rhythm and talent. Icons like Bobby Carcassés and Cuban-American pianists Arturo O'Farrill and Ignacio 'Nachito' Herrera graced the festival, which welcomed international talents such as Dominic saxophonist Sandy Gabriel, Mexican violinist and singer Mireya Ramos, and many others.

Educational and Commemorative Events

The festival also hosted academic discussions, including the XIX International Colloquium 'Leonardo Acosta in Memoriam,' which brought together experts at the Fabrica de Arte Cubano. A similar event took place in Santiago de Cuba, honoring Mariano Mercerón.

As Bobby Carcassés, National Music Award (2012) recipient and the festival's visual image creator, stated, the Jazz Plaza Festival stands 'as one of the most significant events in America and Cuba, revolutionizing within the Cuban Revolution.'

Jazz, Culture, Cuba