U.S. latin jazz group to perform, hold master class in Cebu

CEBU, Philippines – Duende Quartet, an ensemble devoted to playing Latin Jazz, draws inspiration from the concept behind its name. Duende, literally means goblin or imp, has been used to describe jazz’s subtle, emotional power. See them perform live at The Northwing Atrium of SM City Cebu on March 22, 2009 at 6PM.

Their Philippine tour with Manila and Cebu as stops is part of the American Music Abroad Program, The Rhythm Road. The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad, today produced by Jazz at Lincoln Center in partnership with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has earned a rich and distinctive standing in American diplomatic history.

Rhythm Road evolved from Jazz Ambassadors, a program established in 1955 by the U.S. Department of State. Today, Rhythm Road cultivates cultural exchange and it brings America’s musical art forms to audiences internationally.

The Duende Quartet crafts a unique Latin jazz sound in the styles of Mongo Santamaria, Cal Tjader and Willie Bobo as well as Blue Note Records’ legendary 1960s sound. In a unique small group setting—with piano, bass and two hand percussionists—the ensemble captures the vibe of the jazz combo while using the rhythms of a Cuban conjunto. Its repertoire ranges from traditional Cuban songs to arrangements of jazz standards. Duende Quartet, based in the Washington, D.C., was formed in 2004.

The group will also hold a master class for select students at the University of Southern Philippines College of Music to be hosted by the Arts Council of Cebu. They are also scheduled to do live performances in Manila on March 21, 2009, before flying to Cebu. –THE FREEMAN