Sharp 9 Gallery

Tickets: https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=buy.event&eventID=E33370FD-B794-24F5-071AC64EF0726BB8
“(Juan Alamo is) an exceptional musician, his improvisational prowess and command of the language is excellent! His compositions are very high quality as well….” Arturo O'Farrill, pianist, composer, Grammy award winner

Afroborinqueño Portraits: A Bomba–Jazz Suite
A World Premiere

An electrifying new work blending jazz, marimba, and the powerful rhythms of Puerto Rican bomba.

From ancestral invocation to vibrant, jazz-infused homage, Afroborinqueño Portraits celebrates the depth and resilience of Afro–Puerto Rican culture. Centering the marimba as its melodic voice, this dynamic suite weaves traditional bomba rhythms with modern improvisation—creating a rich, immersive musical journey unlike any other.

Originally from Cidra, Puerto Rico, Dr. Juan Álamo has presented solo recitals at universities and percussion and jazz festivals throughout the United States, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. He has been featured as a soloist and with Jazz ensembles in television and radio shows in Puerto Rico, Mexico, Venezuela, and the United States. Currently Juan is an Associate Professor and the Director of the Percussion Ensemble at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill.

Tickets: https://www.instantseats.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=buy.event&eventID=46EC30D2-EDAD-A455-602DF6FF09AC7087 One of the finest pianists of his generation, having recorded thirteen albums as a leader, Joey Calderazzo has traveled the road from child prodigy to in-demand session musician to elite member of the finest ensembles in jazz. He's accompanied the music's geniuses, from Michael Brecker and Branford Marsalis to Jack DeJohnette and Dave Holland. Throughout his journey, Calderazzo has boldly explored his own psyche and his place in the world, as a composer, improvisor, band member, and leader.

Joey Calderazzo - Piano

This performance is sponsored by Susan & Steve Pruskin