Presbyterian College Jazz Ensemble to Present

The Presbyterian College Jazz Ensemble invites the community to an unforgettable evening of rhythm, culture, and high-energy music with its upcoming concert, Latin Jazz!, on Tuesday, April 15 at 7:30 p.m. in Belk Auditorium. The event is free and open to the public.

Following the overwhelming success of past genre-fusion performances—including last year’s jazz and rock program and December’s Funk Time! concert—this latest installment takes a bold step into the colorful world of Latin jazz. From traditional dance tunes to progressive jazz interpretations, the program is a celebration of the diverse musical traditions of Latin America.

“We’ve learned that our audience loves variety,” said Dr. Giovani Briguente, Music Director of the PC Jazz Ensemble. “That gives us the courage to explore styles we might never have considered before, and it inspires us to keep growing as musicians.”

The concert opens with the festive and familiar sounds of La Cucaracha, followed by the mambo stylings of Tito Puente and Dámaso Pérez Prado. Audiences will then be treated to the iconic Oye Como Va, a tune that captures the infectious energy of traditional Latin jazz.

In the second half, the ensemble will delve into the more progressive side of the genre with performances of Afro Blueand Chu Cho. The PC Jazz Combo will also take the stage with interpretations of Bien Sabroso and Monk. To close the evening, the full ensemble will perform Mas Que Nada, a Brazilian samba favorite, and Dizzy Gillespie’s A Night in Tunisia, a masterful blend of bebop and Afro-Cuban jazz.

“We want to provide a broad experience for our audience,” Briguente said. “Latin jazz allows us to showcase a variety of rhythms and styles. It’s music that moves you—sometimes emotionally, sometimes physically. And we won’t judge if you decide to dance!”

Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a lively and engaging night out, Latin Jazz! promises to deliver an electrifying performance that celebrates music without borders.