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.