Celebrating Cuban Jazz at the 35th International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival
The vibrant rhythms of the Caribbean will soon echo through the scenic venues of the Canary Islands, as the 35th edition of the International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival approaches. With nearly 60 concerts lined up across 30 unique locations spanning the islands, this festival promises to showcase some of the world’s finest jazz talents.
The Spotlight on Cuban Jazz Syndicate
Among the exciting acts set to perform, Cuban Jazz Syndicate stands out as a real highlight. This electrifying ensemble will take center stage on July 11 at the Palacio de Formación y Congresos in Fuerteventura, beginning at 8:00 PM. If you haven’t secured your tickets yet, they are available at ecoentradas.com.
Cuban Jazz Syndicate is a vibrant tapestry of talent drawn primarily from Cuba, featuring some of Latin jazz’s most esteemed musicians. Under the skilled direction of Michael Olivera, who has collaborated with icons such as Quincy Jones and Richard Bona, this band promises an evening filled with joyous music and captivating rhythms. Michael’s leadership brings together exceptional artists including Carlos Sarduy on trumpet, Humberto Ríos on piano, and Panagiotis Andreu, a bassist and vocalist from New York renowned for his unmatched musical flair.
The Musical Alchemy
As they perform, the ensemble captivates audiences with a rich blend of improvisation, energy, and the joy that characterizes Caribbean music. Their infectious sound is augmented by the talents of Inoidel Gonzales (tenor saxophone) and Yuvisney Aguilar (percussion), who together create a polyrhythmic experience that pulses with life and vitality.
Following the success of their acclaimed show “Y llegó la luz,” presented at several prestigious music festivals in Europe, Cuban Jazz Syndicate is looking ahead to 2026 for their next ambitious project—a new album and show brimming with freshness, passion, and flavor.
The Collective Ensemble
The lineup of Cuban Jazz Syndicate is not just a collection of artists; it’s a carefully curated group. Michael Olivera handles the drums and vocals with a masterful touch, while Panagiotis Andreu’s contributions on the electric bass and vocals add depth and complexity to the performance. Together with Sarduy’s vibrant trumpet melodies and Ríos’s harmonious piano accompaniment, the ensemble creates a truly memorable auditory experience.
The Festival: A Tapestry of Numbers
The International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival is not just about the music; it’s also a testament to the rich cultural exchange and economic impact it fosters. In this year’s edition, the festival will unfold over 30 venues, including 11 in Tenerife and 13 in Gran Canaria, among others. This year, there will be a total of 59 concerts, alongside engaging talks and masterclasses.
The festival is set to welcome international journalists from countries like the UK, Germany, Portugal, Poland, and Italy, highlighting its growing global reach. Promotional efforts will be featured in various media across Europe and beyond, emphasizing the festival’s diversity with 31 musical projects from 16 different nationalities—including noteworthy representations from the United States, Brazil, and of course, Cuba.
Emphasizing Inclusivity
Moreover, this edition boasts a significant commitment to gender representation, with 12 female-led projects among the 31 performing artists—making up more than one-third of the lineup. The festival will engage approximately 220 musicians in total and emphasize local economic support, with 58.54% of the budget allocated to hiring local suppliers and professionals.
Economic Impact
The festival doesn’t just bring music; it creates economic opportunities. The direct financial impact on local economies is expected to exceed €580,000, demonstrating the festival’s role as a vital contributor to the region’s cultural and economic fabric.
A Cultural Experience
The International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival is more than just a series of concerts; it represents a celebration of music, culture, and community. With Cuban Jazz Syndicate leading the charge, attendees can look forward to a festival filled with creativity, connection, and unforgettable musical moments. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or new to the genre, this is an event that promises to resonate long after the final notes have been played.
