One of the more than 30 artists performing at the Paco de Lucia Legacy festival is eight-time Grammy Award-winning pianist, composer and educator Arturo O'Farrill.
O'Farrill will be leading a band as part of the festival's event on Wednesday, February 21 at Symphony Space in New York City. The festival runs through February 24 at various venues, including The Town Hall and Carnegie Hall.
O'Farrill spoke with WBGO News Director Doug Doyle about the impact of flamenco legendary guitarist Paco de Lucia on his music and the jazz world.
"Paco de Lucia collaborated with all kinds of people, including Chick Corea. His legacy goes on and on. The man was an incredible inspiration to so many people."
Arturo says he's honored to be a part of this tribute festival.
"First of all, I've been performing with Spanish artists for a very long time. I've been to Spain many times. Flamenco is a source of nutrition for jazz, certainly for Afro-Cuban jazz and certainly for all Afro-Latin jazz.. The trail of improvisational practice really goes as far the Middle East. It's something that I hold so sacred to me because we need to know where our music comes from. So much of my music comes from Spain. Music, great food and great wine. It's all reflected in this incredible concert and the legacy of Paco de Lucia."
You can SEE the entire conversation with Arturo O'Farrill here.
