A unique encounter of musical cultures arrives at Flushing: The Steve Kroon Latin Jazz Ensemble and The Patience Higgins Swing Band will share the stage in a “Global Mashup” that promises to vibrate the city.
Music does not know borders, and this Saturday, April 19, Flushing Town Hall will be the scene of an explosive fusion between two iconic genres: Latin jazz and swing.
Global Mashup: Latin jazz meets swing! It is not just a concert, it is a vibrant celebration of rhythm, history and movement. An unprecedented night where the taste of the Caribbean joins the elegance of swing in a show that promises to make you dance.
One night to dance (and for those who do not know how to dance), the event will start at 7:00 pm with a free dance class by the legendary Mickey Davidson instructors (Lindy Hop legend) and Vanda Poakova (Latin dance champion). Have you never danced? It doesn’t matter. Davidson and Pokova are teachers in turning the most shy into track stars, mixing sauce steps, cha-cha-chá and swing into an accessible choreography for all.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVR89HVCMA4
At 8:00 pm, the stage will be taken by The Steve Kroon Latin Jazz Ensemble and The Patience Higgins Swing Band, two groups that have left their mark on New York music. Kroon, Harlem’s percussionist with 50 years of career (and collaborator of legends such as Luther Vandross and Diana Krall), will bring Afro -Cuban and Brazilian rhythms that have made it famous. Higgins, saxophonist from the Orchestra of Duke Ellington and winner of a Grammy with Dee Dee Bridgewater, will respond with the classic swing that has encouraged generations.
The magical moment: when the rhythms are, the most anticipated of the night will come when both bands join for an improvised jam. “It’s like seeing two musical titans speaking the same language for the first time,” says Kroon in an interview. «Latin jazz has that sensual cadence; Swing, that frantic energy. Together, they create something completely new ».
«Steve’s music is full of interpretations that fall in love instantly, are melodically attractive and rhythmically intriguing, and that once made Latin jazz the type of music that a diverse audience could enjoy. “Today, many touch too much,” adds Kroon, explaining how he addresses the style with reverence, with emphasis on delicacy.
Artists with history (and much to tell)
Steve Kroon has not only accompanied myths like Aretha Franklin and Tony Bennett, but also leads her own band with six albums in the market. His philosophy: «Less is more. Latin jazz must breathe, not overwhelm.
Patience Higgins has played with Stevie Wonder and Ray Charles, but his heart beats for traditional jazz. «Swing is pure joy. When people listen to it, they can’t help smiling.
Dance teachers also have fascinating stories.
Vanda Pokova, Slovak Latin dance champion, participated in Dancing with the Stars and now teaches in NYC.
Mickey Davidson, disciple of Frankie Manning (the father of Lindy Hop), keeps alive the era of Savoy Ballroom with his choreographies.
General entrance: $ 25 adults / $ 20 older people and students with identification / $ 18 members. By: Nahuel Leto
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