Latin America / Panama / Panama
Although our magazine primarily focuses on Latin rhythms like Salsa, Kizomba, and Bachata, our editorial mission also includes promoting both emerging and established artists, as well as the academies and festivals within our scene. We believe these are synonymous with the Latin musical culture that enlivens our very souls.
Jazz is one of the most famous genres in the world, and as it has spread globally, it has evolved into various styles. In the Americas, it gave birth to Latin Jazz, which thrives on the fusion of rhythms and forms originating from Latin music. One of the world’s most renowned celebrations of this genre is the “Panama Jazz Festival,” an acclaimed cultural project where creativity, exchange, talent, and inspiration have made the event an international benchmark.
For its 14th edition (Note: The original text says 4ta/4th, but the 2017 festival was the 14th), the Panama Jazz Festival pays tribute to Violeta Green, whose voice brought a unique tone to Panamanian Jazz. Her career, drive, and spirit of perseverance transcend time and remain part of the musical legacy the festival seeks to share from “the heart of America to the rest of the world.”
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Many remember Violeta Green for her humility, gentle nature, and versatility across musical languages, including Jazz, Blues, and Calypso—the latter being a quintessential Caribbean style known for its upbeat, catchy rhythm.
With her passion for song and rhythm, Violeta Green was admired for qualities that led her to perform internationally in the United States, Colombia, and Central America. However, in Panama, she is best known for leaving an indelible mark on the music scene by blending Jazz with Calypso to create a truly special sound. This year, the festival is proud to honor her contributions.
This magnificent festival will take place from January 10th to the 14th, turning Panama’s capital into a global jazz stage. This is made possible through the support of the government, private sector, NGOs, and the invaluable passion and loyalty of both local and international audiences.
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The festival will feature an illustrious lineup of artists. Confirmed international performers include:
- Dianne Reeves, Esperanza Spalding, and Romero Lubambo.
- Bill Dobbins, Terri Lyne Carrington, and John Patitucci.
- The Electric Guitar Quartet (featuring Adam Rogers and Steve Cardenas).
- Children of the Light (Danilo Pérez, John Patitucci, and Brian Blade).
- The Rony Eytan Quartet (presented by the Embassy of Israel).
Representing Panama, the festival will showcase the talent of Joshue Ashby & C3 Project, Graciela Nuñez and the Black Tea Project, Karla Lamboglia, Omar Díaz, Carlos Agrazal, Luis Carlos Pérez, and Los Beachers.
Additionally, the festival will feature “Retro Jazz,” a group from the Dominican Republic. Their repertoire reimagines popular Dominican songs through the lens of Jazz, Bossa Nova, Latin Jazz, and Funk—combining the elegance of Dominican classics with the harmonic depth and improvisational energy of Jazz.
The festival is the most important annual event organized by the Danilo Pérez Foundation, which uses music as a tool for positive social transformation. As Danilo Pérez says: “I invite you to celebrate with music to create a rhythm that inspires peace, love, and brotherhood.”
Contact Information:
- Web: http://panamajazzfestival.com/
- Phone: +507 317-1466
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ Panama JazzFesti/?fref=ts
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ panamajazzfestival/
- Twitter: https://vimeo.com/ panamajazzfestival
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/panamajazzfestival
- Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/ panamajazzfestival
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