Wednesday | October 22 | 12:30 pm
Pedro Cortes comes from a family of Spanish Gypsy guitarists and began his studies with his father and the esteemed Flamenco guitarist Sabicas. Having toured professionally since the age of 17, he has gained international recognition as a soloist and composer. The New Yorker credits him with being a major force at keeping Classical Flamenco alive in New York City.
Cortes has worked with a Who’s Who of artists over his career. He was commissioned by the Cohen Brothers to compose music for the film Paris Je T'aime. He also recently starred in a documentary alongside Diego Amador and La Susi. The film, Flamenco Pasion en Peligro won first place in the Madrid International Film Festival.
For this concert Cortes and his quartet will play music from his just released CD, Influencias. The CD, consisting of original music blending tradition and modern expression, is deeply personal for Cortes. The album reflects the legacy of three generations of flamenco guitarists in his family, as well as the profound impact of legendary maestros like Sabicas and Mario Escudero, who carried the spirit of Spain into the heart of New York City. As a Spanish Gypsy raised in NYC, his music carries the tension and beauty of two worlds—the heritage of flamenco and the energy of the city. While honoring tradition, Influencias also embraces a modern vision shaped and influenced by the groundbreaking artistry of Paco de Lucía and the improvisational brilliance of jazz masters such as Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin, and Pat Martino, among others
Featuring
Pedro Cortes – flamenco guitar
Ali Bello – violin
Dan Perez – alto saxophone & flute
Jose Moreno – percussion, vocals, guitar
