Manuel Valera & Vinícius Gomes | Cuban & Brazilian Jazz

An evening of rich musical dialogue between Grammy-winning Cuban pianist Valera and Brazilian guitarist Gomes. They express soulful traditions of their homelands through contemporary jazz, creating a vibrant experience. This collaboration promises an unforgettable exploration of rhythm and melody.

7:30 PM to 8:30PM (First Set)

9:30 PM to 10:30PM (Second Set)

Admission: $20 cover charge for Mezzanine seating

Featuring: 

• Manuel Valera / Piano

• Vinicius Gomes / Guitar

About Vinícius Gomes:

Vinícius Gomes, a guitarist and composer from São Paulo, Brazil, now based in New York City, is renowned for blending modern jazz with the rich traditions of Brazilian music. His artistry is evident in albums like Resiliência (2017), Changes (2020), and Home (2022), the latter a critically acclaimed collaboration with Korean singer Song Yi Jeon. Gomes has been featured in over 30 recordings and performed extensively in festivals and venues worldwide, including Carnegie Hall Citywide, Newport Jazz, and the Jazz Gallery.

An alumnus of the prestigious Focus Year Program in Basel, Switzerland, Gomes has collaborated with icons such as Ambrose Akinmusire, Duduka da Fonseca, and Magos Herrera. With a master’s degree from the University of São Paulo and an Artist Diploma from NYU, his music reflects technical mastery and cultural depth. Downbeat Magazine praised his work on Home as “glowing from within,” cementing his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

Beyond performing, Gomes is committed to pushing the boundaries of jazz and Brazilian music through education and innovation. He frequently shares his expertise in workshops and masterclasses worldwide, inspiring the next generation of musicians while enriching global audiences with his dynamic and culturally infused compositions.

About Manuel Valera:

Manuel Valera, a Grammy-winning pianist, composer, and 2019 Guggenheim Fellow, has established himself as a cornerstone of the modern jazz scene. Born in Havana, Cuba, Valera has collaborated with luminaries like Arturo Sandoval, Paquito D’Rivera, and Dafnis Prieto, performing in over 30 countries. His work spans 18 albums as a bandleader, including the Grammy-nominated New Cuban Express and the innovative Jose Martí en Nueva York with the New Cuban Express Big Band.

Valera’s compositions have earned prestigious grants from Chamber Music America and the ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award. A professor at NYU, he has shared his expertise in institutions like Stanford Jazz Workshop and Oberlin College. His projects, from solo piano to large ensembles, showcase a unique blend of Cuban traditions and contemporary jazz, solidifying his place among the most influential artists of his generation.

Known for his dynamic performances and compositional brilliance, Valera continues to evolve as an artist, exploring new collaborations and pushing creative boundaries. His dedication to expanding the language of jazz while honoring his Cuban roots ensures his lasting impact on the global music scene.