Cali in the southwest Valle de Cauca department is heating up for its 12th annual jazz festival which begins on September 8.
The Ajazzgo festival brings together musicians from Colombia and all around the world in a full and tantalizing program of fusion, experimental music and jazz.
Some of the highlights will include: Omara Portuondo, the legendary 81-year-old “Diva of the Buena Vista Social Club;” acclaimed pianist Michel Camilo who has teamed up with percussionist Giovanni Hidalgo and bassist Lincoln Goines; and French quartet, Sakesho. The Senegalese Kora Jazz Trio will also be joining up once again with steelpan player Othello Molineaux, the former backing percussionist for bass-guitar legend Pastorius.
The full program is available here. Besides the headline acts there will also be master classes, lectures and workshops with some of the artists.
Admission to the educational activities is free but requires prior registration. Email [email protected] for information.
The concerts will take place at the Teatro Municipal Enrique Buenaventura, Teatro al Aire Libre Los Cristales, Centro Cultural Comfandi, Biblioteca Departmental and Teatro Salamandra.
There will be a number of free concerts and tickets for others start at $6. Further information about ticket prices and locations can be found on the festival’s website here.