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2017 FESTIVAL LINEUP & TICKETS
THE PEDRITO MARTINEZ GROUP
Having arrived in New York from Havana in 1998, Pedrito Martínez is recognized for his brilliance as a lead singer, percussionist, bandleader and composer. A consummate master of Afro-Cuban folkloric music he is also the world’s first-call rumbero who has contributed to over 75 recordings and several films, including Calle 54 (2000) and Chico and Rita (2010).
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Equally at home in popular music, his perfectly intoned tenor voice, seamlessly combines popular and folkloric influences with an infectious energy and charisma making him as formidable a front man as he is a percussionist. The PEDRITO MARTINEZ GROUP’s, self-titled first album, was nominated for a Grammy for Best Latin Jazz album of 2014. "Habana Dreams" their second album, has been named NPR Jazz Critics #1 Latin Jazz album of 2016.
"Compa Gellatano" (2016)
NEW YORK VOICES
2013 marked New York Voices 25th Anniversary and they show no signs of slowing down. This critically acclaimed vocal group has refined their musical story to a high art. They are known for their close knit voicings, inspired arrangements and unparalleled vocal blend. Their chameleon-like musicianship allows them to move seamlessly from setting to setting, be it orchestral/big band to the intimate trio lineup. With deep interests rooted in jazz, Brazilian, R & B, classical, and pop, their music mixes traditional sensibilities with more than a dash of the unexpected. They are first call from great arrangers and conductors like Don Sebesky, Michael Abene, Keith Lockhart, and Rob Fisher who all know and admire the complexity of what they do and want something out of the ordinary, something extraordinary. Like the great jazz vocal groups that have come before — Lambert, Hendricks and Ross, Singers Unlimited, and The Manhattan Transfer — they are firmly a part of that legacy and are dedicated to passing it on to generations to come.
