Wynton Marsalis & The LJC Orchestra Performa in Havana

A country known for groundbreaking jazz is getting a visit from one of America's leading trumpeters, who spent the weekend jamming with Cuban legends ahead of a concert series that will put musicians from the two Cold War enemies on stage together. The visit by Wynton Marsalis and his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra kicks off a season of unprecedented cultural exchanges, with the American Ballet Theater scheduled to perform in Havana next month in honor of Cuban ballet legend Alicia Alonso. Marsalis wouldn't directly answer any political questions, preferring to stick to jazz topics. 

The Marsalis family includes patriarch Ellis, a pianist and educator, and his four sons: trumpeter Wynton, saxophonist Branford, trombonist Delfeayo and percussionist Jason.

Chucho Valdes said Marsalis' visit was an important moment for Cuba and its music. “It's the first time we've had a visit from a band of this quality with such important musicians,” he said. “It is a historic event.” -article by the Associated Press

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