"Few headliners bring such colossal technique, expressive exuberance, and ancient artistic tradition to a single performance.” Chicago Tribune
At the age of 71, with more than a half-century of innovation behind him, Chucho Valdés would be forgiven if he chose to sit back and relax. But that’s precisely what the renowned Cuban pianist, composer and bandleader is not doing. Instead, Valdés and his Afro-Cuban Messengers are bringing their irresistibly exuberant music to Melbourne.
Valdés – winner of five Grammy Awards and three Latin Grammys – is regarded as the greatest Latin jazz musician of our time. He has recorded over eighty CDs and performed with luminaries such as Herbie Hancock, Dizzy Gillespie, Chick Corea and Tito Puente. Son of the great Cuban pianist Bebo Valdés, Chucho achieved international success in the 70s with the seminal band Irakere, before turning solo in the 80s.
Throughout his long and illustrious career, he has immersed himself in Latin jazz as well as traditional Cuban folk music, recasting Afro-Cuban jazz for a contemporary audience.
“He remains a marvel at the keys, agile and inventive. His solos are virtually flawless, dazzling, and as a bandleader he is assured and commanding … Chucho Valdés is emblematic of the evolution of Afro-Cuban jazz during recent decades, and is still at the top of his game” (JazzTimes).
Presented by PBS 106.7 FM, The Langham and ABC Classic
Chucho Valdes & the Afro-Cuban Allstars (Cuba)
Saturday 8th June, 8pm at Hamer Hall
For tickets & full 2013 Program visit - www.melbournejazz.com
