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VIVA MUSICA

Música Latina en Jazz Fest - April 24 - May 4, 2025

Thursday, April 24
Jazz Fest Celebrates México: Grupo Fantasma, Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia, Son del Coamil, El Dusty, and Mariachi en Nueva Orleans Los Viajeros,
Los Tremolo Kings feat. Margie Perez, Papo y Son Mandao


Friday, April 25
Lila Downs, The Iguanas, Astral Project.
Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico: Marimba Nandayapa, Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia, Matlachines Los Venados, Son del Coamil, and El Dusty,

Saturday, April 26
Los Texmaniacs, Rumba Buena
Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico: Son de Madera, Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia, Marimba Nandayapa, and Matlachines Los Venados


Sunday, April 27
Javier Olondo & AsheSon, Charlie & the Tropicales ft. Mireya Ramos
Jazz Fest Celebrate Mexico: Son de Madera, Matlachines Los Venados, Mariachi Jalisco with Ballet Folklorico Vive Mi Tierra, and JM y Sus Norteños
Fermin Ceballos Band, Julio y Cesar Band, Treces del Sur – New Orleans Latin Music Band


Thursday. May 1
Santana, Alejandro Escovedo, Calpulli Tonalequeh Aztec Dancers
Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico: La Santa Cecilia, Pasatono Orquesta, La Insistencia Norteña, and Mexican Calenda with Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia, Quique Escamilla of Canada/Mexico, Conjunto Tierra Linda.
Javier Gutierrez & VIVAZ, Ingrid Lucia, NOLA Capoeira


Friday, May 2
Alfredo Rodriguez Trio, Alexey Marti,
Jazz Fest Celebrate Mexico: Son Rompe Pera featuring guest Gil Gutierrez, Pasatono Orquesta, La Insistencia Norteña, and Mexican Calenda with Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia.
Damian Ch, Ballet Folklorico Vive Mi Tierra, Quique Escamilla of Canada/Mexico,
Calpulli Tonalequeh Aztec Dancers


Saturday, May 3
Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico: Mexican Institute of Sound, Son Rompe Pera featuring
guest Gil Gutierrez, Mariachi Los Camperos, Las Hermanas Garcia, and Mexican Calenda with Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia,
Yusa Cuban Soul, Calpulli Tonalequeh Aztec Dancers


Sunday, May 4
Banda MS
Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico: Mariachi Los Camperos, Mexican Institute of Sound, Las Hermanas Garcia, and El Conjunto Nueva Ola, Mexican Calenda with Ballet Folklorico Nueva Antequera and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia.
Cristina Kaminis, Patrice Fisher & Arpa with special guests from Mexico, Calpulli Tonalequeh Aztec Dancers

 

VIVA Música es una inciativa de VIVA NOLA para promover a los artistas Latinos en Nueva Orleans y es posible en parte gracias a una subvención de la New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. 

 

Damian Ch: A New Orleans Rising Star in Latin Music

Artículo en español aquí>>DAMIAN CH UNA PROMESA DE NUEVA ORLEANS EN LA MÚSICA LATINA

In the lively music scene of New Orleans, a new voice is emerging that is sure to make waves across genres and music communities. Pedro Sandoval Chable, known by his artist name “Damian Ch,” is from Veracruz, Mexico, and is currently a senior at Loyola University, studying Hip-Hop and R&B. Also a graduate of Grace King High School, Damian’s music is marked by a variety of influences, including genres like Reggaeton and Regional Mexican music.
Damian Ch has crafted a unique sound, drawing inspiration from artists like Don Omar, Bad Bunny, and producers such as Tainy. A pivotal moment in his artistic journey was the release of Feid’s album Inter Shibuya La Mafia, which fueled his passion for music and helped him find his artistic voice.


Balancing his music career with academic pursuits, Damian emphasizes that being a music artist demands more from him than his studies. His schedule involves coordinating with his manager, setting deadlines, and maintaining a disciplined approach to his creative process. Damian draws inspiration for his songs from personal experiences and the vibrant culture around him, aiming to portray authentic narratives that resonate with his audience.


His upcoming single, “No Hablo Inglés,” which tackles themes of immigration and social justice, reflects the depth of his artistry. Recently, Damian was recognized as a Latin Artist to Watch at NOLA MusiCon, sharing the stage with fellow local talents and discussing his experiences as a Latin artist. He is also set to perform at this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, where he plans to showcase tracks from his forthcoming EP, SEA (Sigo Extrañandote Aquí). This project aims to unite the local Latin community and introduce fresh sounds to the genre.


In the coming years, Damian envisions touring Latin America and connecting with communities across the U.S. He aspires to build a Latin music scene in New Orleans and encourages collaboration among local artists. As he gears up to present his music to new and bigger audiences, he invites fellow Hispanic community members to join him in celebrating their shared culture and experiences at upcoming events.


With his passionate commitment and emerging talent, Damian Ch is undoubtedly an artist to watch as he leads a new wave of Latin music. See Damian Ch make his local debut at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest at the Cultural Exchange Pavilion Stage on Friday, May 2nd, and follow him on Instagram, @damianchoficial to stay up-to-date.

VIVA Música es una inciativa de VIVA NOLA para promover a los artistas Latinos en Nueva Orleans y es posible en parte gracias a una subvención de la New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. 

Jafet Pérez, Dominican Rhythms in New Orleans Jazz

Artículo en español>>JAFET PÉREZ: Ritmos Dominicanos en el Jazz de Nueva Orleans

Jafet Perez, a passionate musician originally from Santiago, the second capital of the Dominican Republic, has found a new home for his talent in the vibrant streets of New Orleans. A drummer, percussionist, and bassist, Jafet arrived in the city in 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, after losing everything in his country. However, his resilient spirit and love for music propelled him to rebuild his life and career in this land of jazz and blues.
In the Dominican Republic, Jafet dedicated himself entirely to music. For five years, he worked for the Carnival Plus Line cruise company, where he was part of the Latin band. They played Latin shows every day and spent up to nine months at sea. This experience allowed him to travel and get to know much of the Caribbean.


Upon arriving in New Orleans, Jafet faced challenges. For two and a half years, he stopped playing music and worked hard in a restaurant, working up to 12 hours a day washing dishes. He thought that forgetting about music and dedicating himself to other jobs would be the sacrifice he would make to support his wife and three children. However, his destiny was to return to his passion. Through a mutual friend, he met Fermín Ceballos, a Dominican musician living in New Orleans. Fermín invited him to a birthday party where Jafet played the tambora.


That night, Jafet also met Alexey Martí, a Cuban musician who was impressed with Jafet’s sound and invited him to play at an event in a New Orleans hotel. There, Jafet met Víctor Campbell and began to connect with many other local musicians. That event marked the beginning of his musical career in New Orleans, as Jafet began to play in numerous musical groups in the city, returning to music, sharing his Dominican rhythms and his talent with the world.


In a twist of fate, Jafet was invited to a conversation with Ben Jaffe, creative director of Preservation Hall. Without much information, Jafet went to the appointment, which resulted in an offer to become the drummer of the iconic Preservation Hall Jazz Band. This band, a pillar of traditional New Orleans music, has welcomed Jafet and his great Latin talent into one of the most important institutions for the preservation of jazz in New Orleans. “For me, it was a dream I didn’t dream, that came true in an incredible way, because my dream has always been to play in a jazz band; to represent our Latin culture with our rhythms, but also to make other kinds of music, and it has been an immense opportunity that they have given me to be able to be in this great band that is Preservation Jazz’”. His participation with Preservation Hall not only highlights his exceptional talent, but also underscores the diverse and inclusive nature of the New Orleans music scene. Jafet now brings the rhythms of his native Dominican Republic to the most prestigious stages, demonstrating that music knows no borders and that passion and dedication can overcome any obstacle.


When Jafet is not on stage, he likes to spend time with his family, and to compose and produce his own songs and albums, as well as producing for other artists who have trusted his vision. You can find Jafet Perez’s music on the various digital platforms, and see him play at Preservation Hall on Tuesdays and at various festivals and jazz halls in the city.

VIVA Música es una inciativa de VIVA NOLA para promover a los artistas Latinos en Nueva Orleans y es posible en parte gracias a una subvención de la New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. 

Rachel Ornelas: Preserving Cultural Heritage

Versión en español>>Raquel “Rachel” Ornelas: Preservando el Patrimonio Cultural

Rachel Ornelas, the Cultural Heritage Manager for the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, has been an integral part of the event since 2003. With a background in recreation management and extensive experience in festival organization, she brings a unique perspective to her role, focusing on presenting cultural traditions, particularly Native American and folklife traditions of Louisiana.
Ornelas’ connection to music and culture runs deep. Hailing from Texas, her family is of Mexican descent, and her father was a Tejano musician, which significantly influenced her passion for music and cultural preservation. This upbringing led her to a career dedicated to showcasing and celebrating diverse traditions. As she notes, her father’s influence “kind of dictates my life, essentially, like I was living my whole life going to festivals with him or going to concerts.”


At Jazz Fest, Ornelas is responsible for working with “tradition bearers,” including blacksmiths, basket weavers, and other artisans who represent the rich cultural heritage of Louisiana. She finds immense joy in bringing these individuals to the festival, providing them with a platform to share their crafts and knowledge with a large audience. She emphasizes that Jazz Fest is unique in its dedication to presenting these cultural aspects, setting it apart from many other festivals. “To be able to present those people and bring them to the festival is amazing,” she states, highlighting her appreciation for the work.


Ornelas’ approach to discovering and inviting these tradition bearers involves extensive community engagement. She attends various events, listens to community members, and collaborates with advisory committees, folklorists, and the Louisiana Folklife Commission. She credits her mentors, particularly Nancy, for teaching her the importance of having an “ear to the ground” and understanding different communities.


This year, Ornelas is also consulting for the Cultural Exchange Pavilion, which is spotlighting Mexico. She has been involved in advising on the selection of musicians, artists, and traditions to be showcased, highlighting the vast and diverse culture of Mexico. She is particularly excited about the music lineup, including Lila Downs, Lisa Cecilia, and El Dusty, as well as the art displays, such as Dia de Los Muertos altars and papel picado artisans.


For Ornelas, Jazz Fest is more than just an event; it’s a community and a family. She values the long-standing relationships with crew members and the sense of camaraderie that has developed over the years. Her work at Jazz Fest and her activism with the NALAC organization are a testament to her dedication to preserving and celebrating cultural traditions, both within Louisiana and beyond. She hopes that the Latino community will come out to support the festival and enjoy the cultural offerings, particularly the spotlight on Mexico this year.

Patrice Fisher and Carlos Valladares: Bridging Cultures Through Music

Photos Courtesy of Ecos Latinos

 

Patrice Fisher and Carlos Valladares are a dynamic duo whose lives and careers have been dedicated to promoting Latin American culture and music, particularly harp music, in New Orleans and beyond. Their journey, spanning over three decades, is a testament to their passion, dedication, and the power of music to connect people.
Carlos Valladares, producer of the series “Ecos Latinos” since 1993, has long been committed to showcasing the rich tapestry of Latin American culture. His mission is to bridge the gap between Latin America and New Orleans, creating a positive space for cultural exchange. His wife, Patrice Fisher, a musician, composer, and native of New Orleans, shares this vision. Patrice’s musical education has been shaped by her interactions with musicians from Guatemala, Mexico, Brazil, and many others. This diverse influence has enriched her artistry and deepened her appreciation for different musical traditions.

 


Their story began in New Orleans when Carlos, who was accompanying a friend to the Jazz Festival, met Patrice. Carlos, originally from Guatemala, was in the United States on a work visa. Their meeting blossomed into a relationship, leading to 36 years together, marriage, and a shared life dedicated to music and cultural promotion. Carlos considers being in New Orleans a blessing, an opportunity to share his heritage and collaborate with others. For Patrice, music has been an integral part of her life since childhood. She holds a degree in Music from Tulane University and has 50 years of professional musical experience. She has spent most of her life in New Orleans, immersed in its vibrant musical scene.


In 1988, Carlos and Patrice began working together, and in 1993, they launched “Ecos Latinos,” a series that fulfills Carlos’s dream of presenting Latin art and culture in a positive, family-friendly environment. They recognized the need to showcase the diversity and richness of Latin American culture, countering negative stereotypes. “Ecos Latinos” serves as a platform to educate and enlighten audiences about the beauty and depth of their heritage. Their work extends beyond television. They bring guest artists to schools, senior centers, hospitals, and festivals, creating educational and engaging experiences. As composers, they aim to present their original work and support other musicians in the Latin jazz genre.


A significant part of their cultural initiatives involves harp music. For over 21 years, they have had a harp teaching and manufacturing project in Guatemala, which they expanded to Cuba and Honduras. They recently returned from Tegucigalpa, where they conducted concerts and classes with local musicians and students. This dedication to harp music reflects their commitment to preserving and promoting traditional art forms.
Carlos and Patrice’s work is supported by various community partners, including the French Market, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. These collaborations enable them to reach a wider audience and create meaningful cultural exchanges. They are most proud of being part of the creative fabric of New Orleans and contributing to its rich cultural landscape. They value the opportunity to learn from others and share their own traditions. Their commitment to including local and international musicians in their programs fosters growth, learning, and cross-cultural understanding. They have built a musical family across Latin America, creating connections that enrich their work and their lives.


In essence, Patrice Fisher and Carlos Valladares are more than musicians; they are cultural ambassadors. Their work exemplifies the power of music to transcend borders, build bridges, and celebrate the shared human experience.

VIVA Música es una inciativa de VIVA NOLA para promover a los artistas Latinos en Nueva Orleans y es posible en parte gracias a una subvención de la New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. 

Jazz Fest Celebrates Mexico

¡Viva México! Jazz Fest 2025 Celebra la Cultura Mexicana

By AnaMaria Bech

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is set to transform into a vibrant celebration of Mexican music and culture in 2025. The Expedia Cultural Exchange Pavilion will be the heart of this cultural immersion, showcasing the richness and diversity of Mexico’s artistic heritage.
Headlining the festival’s tribute to Mexico are musical powerhouses Santana, chart-topping Banda MS, and Grammy winner Lila Downs. They will be joined by nineteen bands from both Mexico and the United States, creating a dynamic cross-border musical experience.


Festival-goers can expect a diverse array of Mexican sounds. Son de Madera will bring their string-driven Son Jarocho from Veracruz, while Las Hermanas García and Mixanteña de Santa Cecilia will showcase the traditions of Guerrero and the Afro-Mexican rhythms of the Pacific coast. Pasatono Orquesta will reinvent the sounds of Oaxacan village bands, and Marimba Nandayapa will present the traditional marimba music of Chiapas.

From Guadalajara, Son del Coamil will offer traditional Mariachi, contrasting with the horn-driven Mariachi Los Camperos from Los Angeles. Son Rompe Pera will return with their cumbia punk, and the Mexican Institute of Sound will highlight the Mexican electronica movement. U.S.-based bands like La Santa Cecilia, El Conjunto Nueva Ola, Alejandro Escovedo, Los Texmaniacs, La Insistencia Norteña, and “El Dusty” will also showcase their Mexican roots.


Beyond the music, the festival will come alive with Mexico’s dynamic street culture. Parades featuring Matlachines Los Venados from Aguascalientes and a Oaxaca-style calenda will fill the Fair Grounds with color and energy. Inside the Cultural Exchange Village, visitors can enjoy live music, relax with authentic Mexican cuisine and mezcal cocktails, and experience craft demonstrations in the Cultural Exchange Demonstration Tent.


The demonstration tent will offer an immersive look into Mexican traditions. Visitors can explore Son Jarocho culture with print-making, guitar-making, and impromptu jam sessions. Artists from Oaxaca will demonstrate alebrijes-making, weaving, and mural painting. Artists from Uriangato, Guanajuato, will create intricate tapetes from dyed sand and seeds. Other demonstrations will include basket weaving, Mojiganga puppets, papel picado, and Otomi embroidery.


Jazz Fest 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Mexico’s rich and diverse culture.

Festival Season in New Orleans

Temporada de Festivales en Nueva Orleans

By Ashley Garcia

 

New Orleans kicked off 2025 with an unexpected snowfall and a major football event, setting the stage for a year of resilience and celebration. Amid economic uncertainty, the city continues to adapt, embracing the growing role of AI in business and navigating shifts in financial policies and unpredictable weather events.


The snowfall briefly disrupted businesses but offered a collective moment of pause. The city quickly recovered, offering world-class hospitality during a major sporting event. However, not all businesses saw the expected gains, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and supplier diversity initiatives to ensure economic benefits reach the broader community.

The Festival Capital of the World


New Orleans hosts over 130 festivals annually, spanning food, music, culture, and art. From Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest to community celebrations like the Que Pasa Festival, these events are more than entertainment—they’re essential to the city’s identity and economy.
Festivals fuel small businesses, drive real estate investments, and support local entrepreneurs. Boutique hotels like Copper Vine Inn, Black Bird Hotel, and Hotel Perle have become key players, demonstrating their dynamism during events like Taylor Swift’s tour stop and the Super Bowl, offering unique experiences and attracting high-profile visitors.


For food entrepreneurs, festivals provide a crucial platform to showcase new concepts and boost revenue. Local nonprofit commissary kitchen/incubator Codey’s NOLA has taken the lead in preparing entrepreneurs for success, offering training in licensing, food safety, and relationship-building. Founder Sinnidra emphasizes the importance of being festival-ready, fostering relationships with civic leadership and bridging the gap between small business owners and city officials.


This year, the PCA Trade Show 2025 will coincide with French Quarter Fest, bringing the most important cigar fair to the Convention Center. The Consulate of the Dominican Republic, in collaboration with Dominican rum and tobacco companies and the New Orleans Jazz Museum, will host a Cigar Master Class on April 13, showcasing how strategic collaborations promote historical and cultural exchange, as well as economic growth.
With festival costs high but returns significant, these events remain a vital investment for small businesses. As New Orleans enters another vibrant festival season, the city continues to lead in innovation, economic growth, and cultural celebration—proving why it remains the festival capital of the world.

VIVA Música es una inciativa de VIVA NOLA para promover a los artistas Latinos en Nueva Orleans y es posible en parte gracias a una subvención de la New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation. 

DJ Emotion, Master of Mixes in NOLA

Eric Davilla, known to many as VDJ Emotion, embodies the vibrant sounds of Latin music that pulse through the great city of New Orleans. With Nicaraguan and Ecuadorian roots, his love for music began at home, influenced by his father’s taste in merengue and salsa music and his sister’s love for old-school reggaeton and hip hop. At just ten years old, he discovered music software that ignited his passion for blending sounds and creating his unique mixes.

The purchase of a broken turntable led him to his mentor, Rony “DJ Tropical” Giron, marking a pivotal turn in his journey. Under Rony’s guidance, Eric honed his craft, performing at Mo Chalet, Metairie’s longest-running Latin Night, and gaining recognition for his memorable sets. These sets combine genres like EDM, hip-hop, reggaeton, merengue, and bounce, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone on the dancefloor.

“I play what I want and make people appreciate the music,” says Eric about his passion. He emphasizes his commitment to showcasing the diverse tastes and flavors of Latin music and New Orleans culture.

A memorable moment for him came in 2021 when his mentors, DJ Tropical and DJ Magic, recognized him as a master DJ in front of a bustling crowd. He describes this moment as “the pinnacle of his growth as a DJ.”

Eric aims to leave a lasting mark on the music world, with dreams of attending and participating in the Grammys one day. He also encourages aspiring DJs in any genre to “truly love music,” noting that authenticity leads to success and fulfillment in their careers. You can catch VDJ Emotion spinning at Mo Chalet every Thursday and Sunday, ready to turn the floor into an unforgettable celebration. To book him for your next private event or festival, email him at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. “Live your best life!” is VDJ Emotion’s advice, reminding patrons to support their local DJs.

Vincent Hsu Visits New Orleans

By AnaMaria Bech. Photos Courtesy of Vincent Hsu.

The acclaimed Double Bass Jazz Player from Taiwan is the special guest during the New Orleans Jazz Museum's Improvisation Gala.

Vincent Hsu's musical journey has been a fascinating blend of cultural influences and a dedication to his craft. Born and raised in Taiwan, Hsu's deep connection with jazz was ignited by a memorable encounter with Cecil McBee, leading him to pursue a music career. 

Until then, Hsu followed a traditional life path in Taiwan, serving his country’s army and obtaining an undergraduate degree in business. In 2002, he moved to New York to get a master's degree in TESOL at The City College of the City University of New York (CCNY). Using his connection to Mcbee, Hsu began studying acoustic bass with his mentor and other great musicians in the New York Latin Jazz musical scene, such as Victor Venegas and Andy González. Hsu became the first beginner classical music student of John Schaeffer, the former Principal Bassist for the New York Philharmonic, and entered the undergraduate jazz program at CCNY at 27 to learn the bass in depth. He later obtained his master's in Jazz Performance at NYU.

 

In his eight years living in New York, the double bass player performed in the most iconic venues, learned about African and Caribbean musical influences, played with music legends, and founded his bands, the Jazz Supreme Orchestra and Soy La Ley, becoming part of New York’s Spanish Harlem musical legacy. He was humbled when he discovered the spiritual connection between the Yoruba and the batá in his travels to Cuba and studying with Yagbe Awolowo Onilu, Pedro Pablo Rodríguez Mireles, Daniel Rodriguez, and Mauricio Herrera Tamayo. 

Upon his return to Taiwan, Hsu embraced the role of a cultural ambassador, using his music to bridge cultural gaps and promote jazz on a global scale. His mission to put Asian and Taiwanese jazz musicians on the map is a source of pride for many.

 

The universality of music is evident in Vincent Hsu's work, which reflects a blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz and is still influenced by Taiwanese compositions. Hsu's latest album, "Music for the River Jazz Suite: The Spirit of Love River & Mississippi River," recorded live at the Weiwuying Recital Hall in Kaohsiung, is a testament to his musical vision. The album's title is a tribute to the rivers that have shaped his musical journey: the Love River in Kaohsiung and the Mississippi River. Released on the New York-based label Truth Revolution Records, the album has garnered widespread acclaim and has been chosen as Editors’ Picks in DownBeat magazine with a 4-star review. It symbolizes a real connection between his Taiwanese roots growing up by the Love River in Kaohsiung and his experiences along the Mississippi River and performing in Memphis, New Orleans, and Nashville. 

 “As a musician who is passionate about Afro-Cuban music, New Orleans' Jazz brings me back to the roots of this art form; meanwhile, its Latin footprints also become an important part of developing my musical language of a fusion of jazz, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and my Taiwanese roots,” says Hsu about the influence of New Orleans Jazz, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange in jazz.

Hsu's commitment to jazz extends beyond performance. He's passionate about education and cultural exchange and actively promotes jazz in Taiwan and internationally. His efforts have not gone unnoticed; he has been instrumental in putting Asian jazz on the global stage, and his work has contributed to greater recognition of Taiwanese jazz musicians. He continues to inspire a new generation of jazz enthusiasts.

Now, Hsu returns to New Orleans to perform with his band Soy La Ley at the New Orleans Jazz Museum's Improvisation Gala on December 7th. This performance, part of a collaboration between the Jazz Museum and the Taiwanese Ministry of Culture, highlights Hsu's role as a cultural ambassador, bridging the gap between Taiwanese and American jazz. “Visiting New Orleans feels like going home spiritually, and it humbles me each time to respect the history of New Orleans and its musical traditions,” says Hsu about his return to New Orleans.

 The performance will feature a unique blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz, with Hsu's signature Taiwanese influences. He will also lead a Latin Jazz drumming workshop at the museum the previous day, December 6, providing invaluable insights and inspiration to the participants. This will be followed by a performance later that evening at Snug Harbor.

Click here for tickets to see Vincent Hsu at the New Orleans Jazz Museum Improvisations Gala.  

 

 

Media

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New Orleans is in it’s Biggest ERA: Lola’s Guide to Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour Weekend

By Axel Lola Rosa

It’s no secret the weekend of October 25th the city of New Orleans has a big Reputation to uphold when it comes to hosting outsiders for an event. President and CEO of New Orleans & Company Walt Leger, told Forbes Magazine that the city is fully prepared and is rolling out the red carpet for visitors for Taylor Swift's next stop on the Eras Tour. Forbes also reported that the Eras tourism has significantly boosted the economy in cities across the U.S. and worldwide. Leger noted that the economic impact on New Orleans is substantial, with hotels fully booked and restaurants and bars, many featuring Taylor-themed offerings, expected to be busy. While the city grows in economic value, let’s go over some Swiftie essentials for the weekend!

 

As a New Orleanian, fellow Swiftie, Gaylor, Lover, New Romantic, Anti-Hero, and a big advocate for tourism I would like to welcome Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour to New Orleans. I am excited to see fellow Swifties welcoming guests to our beloved city with fun events, delicious brunches/dining, and unique shopping options. Before the weekend of the 25th, during, and probably after, the city will celebrate all things Taylor in Style.

 

Are you ready for it? If you’re Uptown, start your Friday with an I-Island Breeze ALL DAY ALL WEEKEND Taylor’s Version: Happy Hour at The Rum House on Magazine Street which includes Swiftie inspired cocktails like the T-Swizzle or Lavender Haze THC Jello Shots and mocktails like the Blank Space Lemonade. You can even try their Teardrops On My Nachos. Thirteen percent (a nod to Taylor’s favorite number!) of their “In Our Rum Era” sales will benefit the Ella Project, a local nonprofit organization that provides essential legal and business resources to Louisiana musicians, helping them navigate the complexities of the music industry. True Swifties know that Miss Swift would appreciate this!

 

Afterward, grab a drink to go and trickle over to Fleurty Girl for your last-minute Taylor-inspired gifts and souvenirs for those loved ones who couldn’t make the show. No shade. Buy another T-shirt too. You know you want to! For last-minute accessories or that final touch of sparkle for your concert outfit check out the Funky Monkey for the best festive wardrobe selections Uptown. 

 

Of course, as we get closer and closer to the Dome we need options too. Right? Virgin Hotels New Orleans, all weekend long, will also offer a variety of Taylor Swift-inspired activities such as a Live DJ entertainment set, photo opportunities, airbrush tattoos, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic Cruel Summer cocktails. Join the pre-concert party, “This Is Our Era: Swifties Pre-Concert Party,” at Dreamboat on the 13th floor. You can even make friendship bracelets at a special bar hosted by The Bead Shop.

Get tickets at virginhotels.com/new-orleans Makeup lovers will have lots to enjoy as well! Tacos del Cartel in the CBD is talking glam squads with makeup artists to make Swifties sparkle brighter than ever for the show. Whether you make it to the show, decide to celebrate in Style all weekend long or just end up at the right place at the right time this weekend sounds like a Love Story between New Orleans and Taylor Swift. The Taylor Swift Era’s Tour takes place at the Ceasar’s Superdome from October 25th - October 27th. 

Music Meets Opportunity at NOLA MusiCon 2024

For the Spanish version of this article click here>>MusiCon 2024: El encuentro de la música con la oportunidad

By Axel Rosa

Did you know that October is New Orleans Music Month? Besides live shows and neighborhood festivals throughout the city, the local music economy has much more to offer! As a Latin music artist manager and a member of The Recording Academy, Memphis Chapter, also known as the Grammys, my overall goal is to expose all the music resources New Orleans has to offer to local Latin music artists who want to educate themselves in their musical journey. One of those resources is NOLA MusiCon, an extraordinary three-day event that brings together music industry professionals and enthusiasts in the vibrant cultural city of New Orleans. As the city thrives with life and sound, NOLA MusiCon 2024 is a hub of creativity, collaboration, and education, promising to elevate your music knowledge to new levels.

The first year’s conference was successful, drawing in registrants from 22 states, Canada, and the UK. Attendees engaged in diverse sessions that covered essential topics like songwriting and promotion. “I hope that attendees come away from the conference with useful and actionable information to further their career in the industry,” said Executive Producer of NOLA MusiCon, Melissa O’Brien.

NOLA MusiCon is not just a music conference; it’s a comprehensive resource designed to cater to artists at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned professional looking to expand your business, this conference offers many insights through workshops and networking opportunities, ensuring you have all the tools you need to succeed. 

“The magical combination of culture, music, food, and history creates an environment that sparks creativity,” adds O’Brien about the unique influence New Orleans infuses the conference with. 

In addition to informative sessions, attendees will benefit from hands-on demos and engaging interviews with industry thought leaders who will share their secrets for success. One of our objectives is to highlight New Orleans as a viable place for the music industry to grow. The city’s unique blend of culture, music, food, and history creates a creative environment. 

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience! Register now for NOLA MusiCon 2024, from October 28th to 30th, at the New Orleans Marriott Warehouse Arts District. For more information, visit nolamusicon.com.

Rancho Aparte

Para leer este artículo en español, clic aquí: Rancho Aparte

One of the musical groups invited to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, which is part of the celebration of Colombia at the Expedia Cultural Exchange, is Rancho Aparte.

 

Directly from the Department of Chocó, Rancho Aparte represents the sounds of the Colombian Pacific, such as abozaos, polkas, rebulú, contradances, and jugas through its music. They are the most recognized band of Chirimía, a rhythm that uses brass instruments and rescues the roots and soul of a region where joy is present despite daily difficulties. “The Chirimía has a combination of instruments of European origin with native instruments; it is an ancient musical format to which the voice and lyrics and other instruments were added over time,” says Dino Manuelle, Rancho Aparte’s vocalist.

The group’s energy has made them stand out in Colombia, and they have conquered audiences on stages such as the WOMEX Festival in Budapest and the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan. They have been the favorites of the Colombian Pacific music festival, the Petronio Alvarez in Cali, Colombia, where they performed an exciting brass band exchange with the renowned Hot 8 Brass Band from New Orleans.

For Manuelle, the experience of playing with the Hot 8 Brass Band was a great idea. “We connected, and three groups played a Chirimía song together. The energy was tremendous, and we didn’t want to leave the stage,” he said, adding that the similarity between New Orleans brass and the Chirimía is in the percussion and wind instruments, in that it is very urban and street music.

Their performance at Jazz Fest will bring them their first in the United States. They hope to discover more New Orleans rhythms, connect with other bands from around the world who will be present at the festival, and, of course, be ready to make the audience enjoy themselves. “At Rancho Aparte, we do not spare a single drop of sweat. The audience will jump, sing, and get to know the music of our population and our country. They will feel everything from emotion to reflection with the lyrics of our songs,’ says Manuelle.

 

Don’t miss Rancho Aparte’s performances at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival. You can discover more about this band through their soc

Jazz Fest Celebrates Colombia

To read this article in Spanish, click Jazz Fest Celebra a Colombia

Jazz Fest’s 2024 Expedia Cultural Exchange explores Colombia’s vibrant musical and cultural legacy. It marks the largest exchange in the festival’s history, with nearly 200 Colombian artists participating.

Notable Colombian representatives include Bomba Estéreo on April 27, ChocQuibTown’s Goyo with an exceptional performance alongside local band ÌFÉ on April 28, and the iconic Grupo Niche closing the festival on May 5.

Enjoy the Chirimía rhythm with Rancho Apart and the traditional marimba with Agrupación Changó the first weekend. Kombilesa Mi will perform on April 27 and 28, mixing traditional Afro-Caribbean rhythms with rap in Spanish and Palenquero, the language of Palenque, the first town of free blacks in America.

The second weekend brings the winners from the prestigious Petronio Álvarez Festival, Matachindé, and the marimba fusion group Bejuco. The Caribbean fusion arrives with the Creole Group from San Andrés on May 3 and 4.

Don’t miss cumbia, salsa, joropo, and champeta, with performances like salsa clash  from Cali's Jacobo Vélez y la Mambanegra. In addition, the joropo of Cimarrón and the indigenous music with the Millo flute of Joaquín Pérez y su Herencia Ancestral with the rhythms of the Barranquilla Carnival on the first weekend; Lucio Feuillet will represent the city of Pasto’s Black and White Carnival on the second weekend.

The cultural exchange area will showcase Colombian crafts, including backpacks, baskets, jewelry, violins, marimbas, and more, from more than 18 artisans.

We must remember the Colombian flavors! Café Carmo of New Orleans, in collaboration with chef José Blanco of Waska, will serve Colombian street delicacies, such as a refreshing ceviche. On May 3, guest chef Francisco Escalona Forth will present recipes from various regions, such as San Andrés crab stew and Cocoloco. Do not miss the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and its celebration of Colombia!

VALE! ULB, A Latin Band Worth It

Para español, clic aquí >>VALE! ULB, una banda latina que vale la pena

By Axel 'Lola' Rosa

Everyone can agree that music is a universal language that allows us to connect with others even if we don’t speak the same. VALE! ULB, a bilingual Miami-based multicultural Latin band with a New Orleans native as their producer, brings a similar vibe of connection through a mix of personalities, cultures, and sounds.


A talented group of Grammy-Award-winning musicians and artists make up VALE! ULB. Val Vargas is the band leader who brings her exceptional vocals and experience, having worked with artists like Alexander Pires and Christian Yaipen. On percussion, Anier Alonso has extensive expertise in numerous musical genres, including Yoruba, Abakuá, and Tajona. Emiliano Torres, the Musical Director, is a trumpeter who has recorded, played, and toured with various artists, including Ricky Martin. Alberto Torres, a.k.a. Friki, handles the guitar and strings for the band. His credits include Yoli Mayor and Gente de Zona. The band’s producer and bass player is Darius Harrison, a.k.a. Deezle, whose credits include Nicki Minaj, Drake, and Lil Wayne.


The acronym ULB in the band’s name stands for United Latin Band. “It comes from different cultures. I’m Colombian, and my Dad is Peruvian. Aniar is Cuban, Deezle is from New Orleans, and Emi (Emiliano) is from Argentina.” The first part of the band’s name, VALE!, has a double meaning. According to Deezle, it’s a wordplay from the lead singer’s nickname, Vale, and the saying used in diverse Latin American countries to denote agreement. “It’s like ‘VALE! Uniting Cultures’ like ‘GET IT!, ‘DO IT!’” says Deezle, adding that the exclamation point adds to the expressive feeling.


Deezle grew up playing the saxophone, training in classical music, and playing in the orchestra and jazz bands in high school. “All those elements combined made me respect the variations and differences in life and culture,” Deezle said, adding he loved Oye Como Va by Santana when he first heard it. “I never heard anything like that ‘cause it was all funk, R&B, Motown, and Disco back then.” Deezle didn’t know how to identify the sound he was hearing, but it resonated with him. After earning a Grammy for his work with Lil Wayne on the Carter III and extensive credits as a music producer, engineer, and songwriter, Deezle kept gravitating to Latin music. “That’s what I like, is good stuff, it don’t matter what the genre is. In Hip-Hop, you didn’t have that mixing of cultures like that early on. Even though a lot of cats were Puerto Rican, they weren’t mixing Spanish or English in pop songs.”


Now that he resides in Miami, he can explore his passion for Latin music with VALE! ULB. The band formed nearly four years ago in 2019, playing sounds that stand out from other bands and genres because of the unique way they create music. “We’d say take a piece of Black Eyed Peas, take a piece of No Doubt, take a piece of Santana, take a piece of Stevie Wonder and pour some Gumbo on it and that’s us,” says Deezle. Batá drummer Anier Alonso agrees: “We take the essence of different influences. For example, pop, Latin rap, trap in English, ballads in Spanish, jazz, and salsa. Mixing all that creates an atypical sound because we are all different but from the same Latin Origins.”


Last November, their performance at Chickie Wah Wah was a real treat for the dancers that night. VALE! ULB got the crowd going with original tracks like Bailes Chicos and Hey Mama, leaving fans asking for an encore! The band happily played their newest single, Sube El Nivel, which you can find on YouTube. To listen to their music and stay in the loop on future show dates and original content, visit www.valeulb.com or follow them on Instagram @valeulb.


We look forward to having them back in Deezle’s hometown many more times!

Project Ella Aids Artists in the Music Business

Para artículo en español clic aquí:El Proyecto Ella ayuda a los músicos de Nueva Orleans

By Axel Lola Rosa

Louisiana has birthed and contributed to many genres of music over the years, such as Jazz, Zydeco, and Bounce, to name a few. Just like any other business, the music business has a legal department. For the independent artist, who is usually a one-person show, no pun intended, they typically don’t have a legal team. That’s where The Ella Project comes in. The Ella Project is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Ashlye Keaton & Gene Meneray that provides direct pro bono legal intellectual property and entertainment law assistance.

Keaton practices intellectual property and entertainment law and is an adjunct at Tulane University. She has received numerous accolades, including New Orleans City Business Leadership in Law and OffBeat Magazine’s Best Music Attorney. Meneray is a Native New Orleanian, Tulane University Alumni, and held the Director of Artist Services title at the Arts Council of New Orleans for over a decade. 

According to backstage.com, hiring an entertainment lawyer can range from 5% of one’s talent fee to hourly rates starting at $300. Keaton and Meneray’s work began almost 20 years ago with a partnership of the Arts Council of New Orleans, Tipitina’s Foundation, and Tulane Law School. It had provided services to over 3,000 clients by 2016. “We’ve been doing the work since about 2004, and then we set it up as an independent nonprofit in 2016,” said Meneray. Keaton came out of Law School practicing entertainment law at a local firm with clients with needs, but those clients could not afford the services. “What if we set up a program to get someone else to pay for it?” And the Ella Project was conceived. 

Aside from providing legal advice, the ELLA Project offers various programming and workshops. One of those workshops is Crescendo. When she was an Ella Project student volunteer, attorney Bri Whetstone realized a different need amongst clients. “It was great when the musicians would come to us with questions and problems… but what if there was a way we could go ahead and teach them about certain red flags in the music industry?”. 

With Whetstone instructing, the Ella Project started offering simple workshops. Soon after, Whetstone met Lou Hill. Hill’s knowledge and teachings caught Whetstone’s attention, “I was blown away by how he talked about the practical side…‘This is how you get money. These are the things you should be doing.’ So I wanted to combine that experience with the law.” That’s how Crescendo came to be. Hill is a music entrepreneur, songwriter, and musician with Waterseed, a New Orleans Future Funk band. “I was asked to speak at Crescendo and met these guys (Meneray and Whetstone) because I was already familiar with Ella.” The following year, Hill joined Crescendo as an instructor. “My effort in New Orleans is figuring out how to get musicians in a place where their art financially supports them.” 

The Ella Project offers direct one-on-one services and programs in English. Still, it does not limit its services to English speakers. “We have brought in translators before…I have a rolodex of translators. We can have somebody come there (Ella Project Offices) and translate for legal appointments. That’s not a problem,” said Meneray about the need for non-English speaking musicians. This year’s seven-week Crescendo workshops occur every Tuesday, from 5 PM - 7 PM, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum beginning September 26th. For more information about the Ella Project, to make an appointment or a donation, visit www.ellanola.org or call 504-250-0429. 

Music Series Honors Mexican Artist Enrique Alférez

 

Para el artículo en español, clic aquí: Tardes con Enrique

Enrique Alférez moved to New Orleans in 1929 and stayed and worked in the city for almost 70 years. The Zacatecas-born artist left a significant mark. Sculptures, fountains, monuments, and more of his creations are exhibited throughout different parts of town, like on the facade of the New Orleans Lakefront Airport and its fountain, Charity Hospital, the Poydras art corridor, and numerous pieces in NOMA, bridges, fountains and the Botanical Garden in City Park, among others places.

The Helis Foundation cherishes his essential legacy, preserving his art, publishing a book about his life, and supporting Evenings with Enrique, a series created in 2016 that honors his name and highlights Latin American art and music in New Orleans.

Evenings with Enrique provides Louisiana residents with a chance to enjoy the works of Enrique Alférez while walking through the Botanical Garden and enjoy music from local Latin bands, free of charge on Wednesdays in April and October.

Food and drinks are available, and the gift shop also offers Enrique Alférez: Sculptor, a book by Katie Bowler Young about the artist’s life.

For the full music lineup, visit thehelisfoundation.org.

 

Allan Cubas: Urban & Latin Beats from the 504

Para español clic Allan Cubas: Ritmo Latino y Urbano del 504

By AnaMaría Bech

Being part of the Young Money label, “It’s a dream come true” for Allan Cubas, a New Orleans-born Honduran artist whose recognition is growing in the urban music community.

Cubas recognizes the importance of showing up and the fortune of being in the right place at the right time. The way things happen in New Orleans, a friend of a friend told him he could be a good fit for Lil Wayne and Mack Maine’s music label Young Money, which is looking to sign new talent. “Petie called me randomly one night and told me, I feel like you could be a good addition, with the way the Spanish game is growing.”

Those in the music scene have known about Cubas’ dedication and passion for his music and recognize his talent as an American bicultural artist in New Orleans. Cubas’ father is from Honduras, and his mother is a native of Mississippi. He grew up in a genuinely bicultural family, which gives him the upper hand in navigating between two languages and the experiences and culture of the Latino and the Anglo worlds. Cubas represents the 504, which happens to be the New Orleans area code and Honduras’s international code.

“I was a music fan for as long as I can remember. I felt like it was an outlet for me to express myself. When I was in Honduras, I would hear different things, but really what hit me was coming to New Orleans at an early age.”

 

His first musical influence was his father, an avid musician who played and sang a mix of genres of music in Spanish and at church and parties. According to Cubas, his father would have never seen a future in music. “He didn’t pursue it as a dream or career. Coming from a third-world country, I don’t think he saw that as possible.”

 

But Cubas does. He inherited music from his father and the desire to write everything down. His mother taught him to dream big and believe nothing was impossible. He grew up listening to the lyrics from artists such as Roberto Carlos and others his dad used to sing. The New Orleans hip-hop and R&B scenes later influenced him. “I remember going out at the block party and hanging out in bars. Music was always hot”.

 

The reggaeton phenomenon influenced Cubas and intrigued urban artists and producers in the United States, including Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr., who understood the potential of investing in Latin music. Finding out a New Orleans-based urban artist such as Cubas was a match for his label. Cubas’ dedication, work ethic, and focus have gained Lil Wayne’s full support. Meeting Lil Wayne was surreal for Cubas. “When I met Wayne, it was kind of a mutual chemistry from the jump. I’m from New Orleans, Louisiana, so Lil Wayne’s always been somebody I admired. He is the greatest rapper of all time.” 

Cubas has always loved writing lyrics. “When I got to middle school towards high school, I started battle rapping. You know, I always enjoyed spoken word poetry after high school.” You won’t catch Cubas without a pencil. He always carries it as a reminder that lyrics and inspiration are everywhere. He recognizes his writing is a gift, knows his strengths, and learns from his losses. And right now, he is learning from the best. He recently returned from touring with Lil Wayne for over two months, where he got a prime opportunity to perform next to his idol in front of big crowds. “Merit got me here, but there are still levels to go,” says Cubas, knowing he will prove he can stand alone.

 

Before Young Money signed him, he had performed in various places around New Orleans, the United States, Honduras, and Belize. He created original songs and videos with local producers and friends like Abby Urbina, Eric Bardales, Saul Ramos, and Mario Mejia. He has gotten the support of a few local promoters, such as Tito Miranda and the late Tulio Murillo, but he’d like to see more support from local Latinos.

“My music has taken me everywhere because, as a dreamer, I’ve always been chasing this, and I’m going to keep going with it,” Cubas says, and we believe he is certainly going places.

To hear Allan Cubas, check out various platforms and his recent songs, Inseguro, No Pressure, and Sativa, and support him by following him on social media and sharing his music.

 

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The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation made this article possible.

 

 

Plena Libre: Celebrating Puerto Rico

By AnaMaria Bech

En español>>Plena Libre: Celebrando a Puerto Rico

The city of New Orleans celebrated the music and culture of Puerto Rico within the framework of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage. The beautiful island of enchantment shares similarities with the most Caribbean city in the continental United States. Bringing artists and musicians from Puerto Rico to a festival that celebrates diversity is something special for the organizers of Jazz Fest. Puerto Rican residents in Louisiana felt identified thanks to several shows and cultural displays inside the Puerto Rico pavilion.

For Ingrid Casanova, a Puerto Rican who resides in New Orleans and who visited the Puerto Rico Cultural Exchange Pavilion, it was special to celebrate both of her cultures.

“It feels amazing because New Orleans is so similar in culture…Is a city ​​full of culture and tradition, just like Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico is full of music and food, so we are very similar. After [Hurricane] María, I came to live here, but I felt that I was not alone. I feel that New Orleans is part of my life, so I am celebrating this interaction between what is Louisiana and Puerto Rico, which is spectacular.”

One of the guest bands in the Cultural Exchange Pavillion was Plena Libre, which combines the traditional Plena and Bomba rhythms with other Afro-Caribbean styles and jazz to create a contagious dance music that honors the group’s deep sense of the unique indigenous musical traditions while embracing modern sounds. We talked with Víctor Vélez, singer and main percussionist of Plena Libre, about his experience in New Orleans and at Jazz Fest:

How did you feel about participating in the Jazz Festival and being in New Orleans for two weeks?

Apart from all the functions, variety, and diversity of artists from different parts of the world, the treatment, the people, the food, everything is spectacular. Playing with Plena Libre felt spectacular. It is my duty to be part of this band and much more when representing Puerto Rico outside of Puerto Rico. 

How does it feel to see Puerto Rican culture celebrated at this festival?

Seeing the culture of the island is exalted here is very important. The reality is that we need more festivals like these where we can take our music, not just to New Orleans but around the world.

Did you have a chance to perform multiple times?

Besides being the vocal leader and percussionist in Plena Libre, I sing with the Bomba group Tambuye, which was also invited to represent Puerto Rico. I also play and sing with La Casa de la Plena Tito Matos, so we participated in the parades.

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The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation made this article possible.

 

 

Yusa's Music

Click here para español>> La música de Yusa 

Every time Yusa performs, she takes the audience on her journey through music. When you attend a Yusa concert, you’re not there to listen but to feel. 

Her talent is undeniable, as she has been perfecting her craft for a long time, taking tunes from many genres and infusing her music with the sounds of every place she’s traveled.

Describing Yusa’s music is hard. You cannot categorize her; she likes it that way. She is a multi-instrumentalist; she sings, improvises, and dances. She never wants to be boxed in because her music is about feelings and experiences.

Yusa joined the conservatory in Cuba at age 9. As a little girl, she fell in love with the guitar when she saw the children of her caretaker practice their lessons. Her mother saw how music lit a fire inside her and recognized it was more than a brief infatuation. She saved some money and got Yusa her first guitar, offering the support she wished her mother would give her when she dreamed of being a singer. 

Thanks to her mother’s guidance, Yusa could pursue a demanding musical education in the conservatory in Cuba. She studied classical Guitar and became the first to graduate with studies on tres, a string instrument original to the Caribbean island. The tres was Yusa’s avenue to exploring Cuban music from the countryside and became her way to challenge the traditional training at the Conservatory, helping give folk music the place it deserved in the academy. 

Soon after graduation, she joined Son Los Que Son, a popular women-only band that needed a tres player, allowing her to perform and sing at the most famous Cuban venues. She could fill the 28-shows per month quota required to earn the salary as a musician in Cuba, and her dedication and hard work allowed her the privilege to tour internationally. 

Collaborating with friends who needed music for their theatre plays, Yusa found the need to write and compose. This event marked the birth of Yusa’s solo career. She got to tour Europe and Japan and earned nominations and an invitation from the BBC London to perform in Latin Voices, a concert where Yusa, Lila Downs, and Susana Baca were the stars. 

She founded Interactivo, a collective of incredible musicians, for which she was known in many places. In 2004 she participated in “Lenine in the Cité,” a live recording of a DVD of the recognized Brazilian musician who received two Grammys. She went back and forth, touring in the spring and fall. 

Her musician friend Santiago Feliu invited Yusa on his tour in South America. 

In Argentina, Yusa learned the extent of Latin American music beyond the canción protesta taught in Communist Cuba. She also realized she had already established an audience. When getting ready for a solo show, Yusa saw more than 200 people in the venue and thought, “This venue must do very well.” To her surprise, the audience sang her tunes and requested songs they knew from her collaboration with Lenine. 

“Argentina was a life-changing experience,” said Yusa. She settled in the Gaucho country for almost a decade. From there, she traveled all over Latin America and got a chance to learn the diverse folk rhythms from every region. She connected to her Latin culture, fell in love, and as her life went on, personal struggles got in the way of her life and career. It was time to move on, leave Argentina, and put her music on hold. So while searching for her inner peace, Yusa became a therapist and moved to Florida to work in her new field. Music became a side gig, and Yusa performed in Miami sometimes. The CubaNOLA Arts Collective knew Yusa’s trajectory, and when they heard she was in Miami, they invited her to perform with the Jazz and Heritage Foundation at Preservation Hall. Yusa enjoyed her brief visit to New Orleans.   

The pandemic forced Yusa to find new horizons. She accepted help from a good friend in New Orleans and decided to settle in the city of jazz. It did not take long for Yusa to find a new sense of belonging, a rich musical community, and make new friends. Music became her primary focus again, and she has been busy performing at various festivals, venues, and events. 

Yusa’s performances are designed not to be heard but to be felt. She takes the audience on her musical journey and shows her jazzy spirit. She feeds from the energy of her audience and gives them an unforgettable time while celebrating together “ the luck of being alive.”

Yusa will perform at French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest. Follow her on social media as Yusa Music to learn about her show details.

 

Our music section "Notas y Colores" is made possible thanks to the support of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Foundation

Piano on a Truck

Piano on a Truck

By Claudia Vallejo

Click aqui para español- > Piano sobre ruedas

Social distancing, banning crowds, and restriction of entertainment are in place. But who says that music must stop? Not in New Orleans! Put a 600-pound piano on a truck’s bed so that the show can go on.

Jacques Ferland loads a grand piano on his white truck, drives around, finds a corner of a park or the front of a house to park, and invites a pianist to play it. “Piano on a Truck,” Jacques’ idea, gave new birth to perform music during the pandemic.  

Jacques Ferland is a Canadian native who calls New Orleans home. He has been fixing, tuning, and moving pianos for over 20 years.  He started “Piano on a Truck” in the French Quarter in December of 2019.  His idea did not work well at that time. A few months later, the pandemic hit, and Jacques decided to roll his piano on the truck again. “It is now or never,” he thought. This time, people loved it! 

There are not exact days to catch a concert on Jacque’s truck.  Its frequency depends on the weather. The piano can get easily damaged if it gets wet, and as he also remarks, “nobody wants to be in the rain.  Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.” The best way to know when to catch a concert on wheels is to follow “Piano on a Truck” on Facebook.

On top of the white truck, the gold-painted piano on one side and red on the other is frequently seen at Coliseum park in the Lower Garden District. On a random Wednesday, adults, young people, and children sat to listen to Kristofer Tokarski playing Louis Armstrong’s tune “Two Deuces” and Jelly Roll Morton’s “Sweet Substitute,” among other songs.  It was a one-hour show. “The style of music that I play is traditional jazz piano. What people hear is a lot of what I would play ordinarily at a club,” says Kristofer.

Different musicians play regularly on “Piano on a Truck.”  Kristofer Tokarski plays early jazz. Andre Bohren performs classical piano. Josh Paxton executes some of the great New Orleans pianist legends, and Joe Krown is also a New Orleans-style piano player. “It depends on what people want to hear,” explains Jacques. 

Who could imagine that a truck could be used for something so fun?  Jacques Ferland’s piano on a truck is already an iconic sight around New Orleans’s streets and old neighborhoods. “I feel that there will be a demand for it even when the bars open again. It is always nice to be outside,” asserts Jacques while he fixes the fifth piano that, like the other four before it, will end up on the back of his truck someday.    

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