Grammys 2022: UCLA professor celebrates Afro Latin jazz in nominated album, track
“Arturo O’Farrill is saying goodbye to the past and hello to the future of Afro Latin jazz.
The global jazz studies professor as well as founder and artistic director of the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance is nominated for two Grammy Awards for his recent album “Virtual Birdland” and track “Dreaming in Lions” in the Best Latin Jazz Album and Best Instrumental Composition categories, respectively. “Virtual Birdland” was produced with the ALJA to allow musicians to continue performing during the pandemic while “Dreaming in Lions” is a chamber piece made in conjunction with Cuban dance company Malpaso to describe a farewell’s emotional processes. Despite having different themes and compositions, O’Farrill said his goal with both albums was to celebrate the heritage of Afro Latin jazz and continue its tradition…’