A special backyard fundraiser in Jersey City, feating live music, food, and refreshments, will raise funds for the JC Latin Jazz Festival on Saturday, August 9th at 4 p.m.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
The event which take place at a private home and feature jazz trombonist Juanga Lakunza and a quartet playing two sets, including a presentation of “The Cláve and the Language of the Drum,” and a second set with surprise guests.
“What we do is explain the theory of the cláve and its evolution, and then we play it for you,” Lakunza began in a statement.
“We cover Dizzy Gillespie, Chano Pozo and some of the great jazz and Latin standards that are based on the cláve rhythm. People are surprised when they hear how prevalent the cláve is in so many genres of music.”
The quartet is led by Lakunza on trombone, John Benitez on bass, Carly Maldonado on percussion, and Alex Pastrana on keyboard.
“It’s really a unique fundraiser with a swinging program, maybe even some dancing. Not only amazing musicians, but delicious homestyle Latin food, an award-winning Tres Leches cake and champagne toast are all part of the plan,” said host David Cruz, a long-time city resident and jazz fan.
“Raising money for this Latin Jazz festival is our small way of keeping live music going in our city, and the team at Riverview Jazz are on the front lines for that. This will be a celebration.”
All net proceeds will go to helping RiverviewJazz.org present the Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival, which is set for September 5th and 6th.
Tickets for the fundraising event are $100 (all included) and must be purchased in advance. Seating is extremely limited, doors open at 4 p.m., and music begins at 5 p.m.
You can order tickets and get more information here or by calling Cruz at 201-455-4001.
