MUSIC Paul Carlon Octet Sabor Latino: The Afro-Cuban Music of the Paul Carlon Octet The Paul Carlon Octet (PCO) brings together musicians of various backgrounds in a combination that is both Afro-Cuban, jazz-inflected, innovative and evocative of the American experience. Featuring African mbira (also known as the kalimba), a collection of brass and woodwinds, and a traditional jazz rhythm section, this ensemble’s collective voice speaks of the funk of Bootsy Collins, and the Latin influences of Cuba, Brazil, and Colombia. Attesting to his composing virtuosity, Paul Oberlin proclaimed in Jazz Review that: “Carlon has succeeded in combining a plethora of musical art forms, creating a lush atmosphere that both swings and energizes”. A part of the New York and Latin jazz scene for over fifteen years, Carlon also completed a Master’s in Music Composition at City College of New York. He now teaches at the College of Staten Island. Carlon has performed with distinguished musicians, including jazz luminaries: Phil Woods, Clave y Guaguancó, Juan Pablo Torres, Giovanni Hidalgo, and Steve Turre. He has toured, recorded, and performed all over the U.S., the Caribbean (including Cuba), and South America. When describing his creative process, Carlon discloses: “A lot of my music is clave-based; sometimes I consciously think about a specific feel, but not always; sometimes I just follow the melody and let the rhythmic feel grow from that. I am particularly fascinated by the intersection of African-American Jazz rhythms and Afro-Latin rhythms.” The PCO vocalist and daughter of legendary percussionist Mongo Santamaria, Ileana Santamaria brings a fiery and dynamic stage presence and folkloric slant to the group’s performances. PCO released its’ first full-length CD, Other Tongues, in November 2006. Support from the Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors offers the Arts in Education Institute a unique opportunity to present a musical form that is under-recognized in our region. Paul Carlon Octet personnel includes: Paul Carlon - Tenor Sax, Flute, and Mbira Anton Denner - Alto Sax and Flute Dave Smith -Trumpet Ryan Keberle - Trombone Mike Fahie -Trombone John Stenger - Piano Dave Ambrosio - Bass William Bausch - Drumset Ileana Santamaría -Vocals Top