The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra + Moacir Santos

The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis perform the music of the late Moacir Santos, one of Brazil’s most important musicians and prolific composers. Santos’ work illuminated the soul of Brazil, creating a truly national music, which has been recorded extensively by hundreds of artists. Melding Afro-Latin influences with improvisation and jazz harmony helped make Santos a genuinely original voice in Brazilian music. Santos was orphaned at an early age, and taken in by a family who helped him take music lessons. He continued to learn the music of Brazil throughout his formative years, garnering an encyclopedic musical knowledge. As a respected educator, Santos mentored some of Brazil’s most established artists. Though late to receive proper international acclaim, Santos’ name continues to reach newfound celebrity among generations of Brazilian musicians and music fans worldwide. Joining the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for this performance is acclaimed Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista, who has worked with YoYo Ma, Herbie Hancock, Sting, and more.

Free pre-concert discussion nightly, 7pm