Acclaimed Afro-Cuban jazz pianist Elio Villafranca is set to take the stage Saturday at Prior-Jollek Hall on the Antilles School Campus. Presented by The Forum, the performance will feature a blend of solo piano compositions and a jazz sextet, celebrating the legacy of Cuban classical composer Ernesto Lecuona alongside the innovative sounds of jazz legend Horace Silver.
A Night of Cultural Fusion
Villafranca, a Grammy-nominated Steinway Artist, has been a leading force in Afro-Cuban jazz since arriving in the United States in 1995. Born in Pinar del Río, Cuba, he seamlessly fuses African, European, and Pan-American influences into his music. His performances have earned international acclaim, including a 2010 Grammy nomination for Best Latin Jazz Album and a Preis der Deutschen Schallplattenkritik nomination.
Joining Villafranca onstage will be Mark Gross on alto saxophone and clarinet, Alex Norris on trumpet, Edward Perez on bass, St. Thomas’ Dion Parson on drums, and Carlos Maldonado on percussion. The concert promises an evening of vibrant, rhythm-driven storytelling that reflects Villafranca’s deep roots in Afro-Cuban traditions while embracing the improvisational essence of jazz.
A Distinguished Career in Jazz
Villafranca has collaborated with jazz icons such as Wynton Marsalis, Paquito D’Rivera, Terell Stafford, and Pat Martino. In 2015, Chick Corea selected him as one of five pianists to perform at the inaugural Chick Corea Jazz Festival at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Beyond his performances, Villafranca is a dedicated educator, serving on the faculties of The Juilliard School, New York University, Manhattan School of Music, and Temple University.
Event Details
The evening begins at 6 p.m. with an opportunity to enjoy small meals and desserts from Amalia Café in the Courtyard. Attendees may also preorder meals by calling the restaurant. The concert starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets are available online at www.theforumusvi.org or via Promotix. Tickets are $30 for adults, $10 for teachers, $5 for students, and free for children under 10, though a ticket is required to reserve a seat.
For more information, contact Executive Director Nicole Parson at 646-725-3353 or email theforumusvi@gmail.com.
