Opening night of Omar Sosa’s week is a celebration the pianist’s music for big band, specifically the pair of memorable recordings he has done in collaboration with Germany’s NDR Bigband, 2010’s Ceremony and es:sensual from 2018, with innovative arrangements by Jaques Morelenbaum. Utilizing a hand-picked ensemble of Bay Area-based musicians for this date, Sosa’s sophisticated mix of an Afro-Cuban framework and Morelenbaum’s advanced orchestration comes together in this vibrant performance that challenges conventions while honoring tradition through constant redefinition. For this concert, Sosa will be performing with the Stanford Jazz Orchestra.

About Omar Sosa:
A world traveler who carries the verdant sounds and traditions of his native Cuba wherever he goes, seven-time GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominee Omar Sosa has forged powerful creative alliances around the globe. Born in Camagüey, Cuba and now a resident of Mallorca, Spain, the renowned jazz pianist, composer, and bandleader is celebrated for blending Afro-Cuban, Latin jazz, and global influences. Sosa’s adventurous style has invigorated the Latin jazz scene worldwide, and he has released a succession of touchstone albums in settings ranging from solo piano to big band, and in collaboration with master musicians including Paolo Fresu, Adam Rudolph, Seckou Keita, former SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director John Santos, and the NDR Big Band. His week as an SFJAZZ Resident Artistic Director gives an enlightening glimpse into his diverse range of musical pursuits.