Performers
Location
Lake George, NY— This event may happen at various locations in the city.
About
Manuel Valera New Cuban Express
Born and raised in Havana, Grammy-nominated, Guggenheim Fellow, pianist and composer Manuel Valera has become well known in the modern jazz scene. He has recorded 18 CDs as a bandleader and leads projects ranging from his Grammy-nominated group New Cuban Express to a modern contemporary trio, solo piano, and the New Cuban Express Big Band.
Notable collaborators:
- Arturo Sandoval
- Paquito D’Rivera
- Brian Lynch
- Dafnis Prieto
- Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra
- Jeff “Tain” Watts
- John Benitez
- Samuel Torres
- Yosvany Terry
- Joshua Bell
In 2020 Valera joined Steve Smith’s group Vital Information. He has received many composition grants, including:
- 2019 Guggenheim Fellowship
- Chamber Music America’s New Jazz Works (three times)
- Dranoff International 2 Piano Foundation (two times)
- ASCAP Young Jazz Composer Award
He has performed in more than 30 countries at major international venues and festivals.