Havana Jojazz 2009 Festival Begins

A concert of young jazz musicians will open the Jojazz 2009 International Festival in the Cuban capital on Thursday, in which about 29 young musicians will compete.

A harmony and improvisation workshop will be given by Cuban musician Orlando Sanchez on Thursday afternoon, while a composition contest will open with a jury headed by Alexis Bosch.

Vibraphone was included among the 11 musical instruments to compete in this festival, including flute, piano, guitar, clarinet, trumpet, sax, double bass and drum.

Dedicated to Cuban trumpet player Jose Miguel Crego (El Greco) for his 35 years of artistic life, a concert with new performers will be offered in his honor.

A trumpet workshop with jazz musicians of various generations, including Yassek Manzano and Bobby Carcases, is among the most eagerly awaited moments.

The program includes concerts with Norwegian Pitsj and Litsen band and Cuban Orlando Valle (Maraca).

Amadeo Roldan Theater and La Zorra y el Cuervo Club will be also venues this time of the Jazz festival, joining the regular Culture House of Plaza de la Revolucion municipality and Mella Theater.