"I believe that each note I write or play is a story." —Josiel Perez
The Music Department at PVCC is pleased to welcome Josiel Perez to the #pvccensembles family, teaching Latin Jazz Ensemble on Thursday nights. Beginning February 1st, the ensemble is for musicians eager to play Latin Jazz music as a life-long experience. The course will explore a variety of styles such as Afro-Cuban Latin, Brazilian, Caribbean Jazz and Jazz Standards with Latin arrangements. This course allows musicians to comprehend the connection between all musical styles. Students will have the opportunity to arrange and/or compose tunes for the ensemble.
Meet Professor Perez
Born in Pinar Del Rio, Cuba on October 9, 1986, Josiel Perez comes from an extensive musical family, beginning with his grandfather who is a refined flautist to his uncle, Andres Perez, who is considered one of Cuba’s best baritone saxophonists.
Currently residing in Phoenix, Arizona, Josiel has performed alongside top-level musicians, Luis Conte, Haakon Graf, Rayford Griffin, Hans Zermuelen, Dan Lutz, Stan Sergeant, Walfredo Reyes Jr., Luis Eric Gonzalez, Kamasi Washington, Jimmy Branly, Raul Pineda, Sawa Perez, Joey De Leon. He also led, composed for, and arranging music for the AC Jazz Project aka Afro Cuban Jazz Project, a nationally known group produced by PJ Oliva, and formerly led by world renowned Cuban percussionist Long John Oliva who passed away in 2004.
"Music changed my life. I like teaching music because it allows me to share my experience and joy with my students. Also, I have the opportunity to teach valuable life-skills such as self-expression, communication and global perspective through music."
Curious about the ensemble experience at PVCC? Click here.