CALJE: Chicago Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble

CALJE, the Chicago Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble, is regarded as a new and innovative force on the Latin Jazz scene. With a global sound and ensemble, this band represents Afro-Cuban Jazz, as well as music from all of Latin America.

Incorporating traditional Cuban rhythms, such as son, guaguanco, and clave negra with modern Jazz harmony, CALJE has explored new music based on Tango, Merengue, Bomba y Plena, Flamenco, and Reggae.

CALJE has performed and recorded with artists such as Grammy winners Howard Levy, from the Bela Fleck Group; Brian Lynch, from the Eddie Palmieri group; master percussionist Paoli Mejias; and legendary trombonist Steve Turre. Its critically-acclaimed debut album Blueprints received three-and-a-half stars from Downbeat Magazine.

Founded in 2006 by Nicaraguan pianist/composer Darwin Noguera and Mexican trumpeter/composer Victor Garcia, these long-time musical collaborators envisioned an approach to Latin music that would follow in the innovative footsteps of the pioneering Cuban groups Chucho Valdes' Irakere and the Dizzy Gillespie United Nations Orchestra. This dynamic group is continuing the dance and listening legacy in the Latin Jazz genre.

This special engagement is presented as part of IUP's recognition of International Education Week and Hispanic Heritage Month, with planning made possible through the cooperation of the Office of International Education.

Tickets are available beginning September 22, 2015, by visiting the IUP HUB Box Office on Pratt Drive, by calling 724-357-1313, or by ordering online. Regular: $22; Discounted for seniors or groups of 10 or more: $18; and I-Card holders, students, and children: $12.