Ottawa Set to Host Second Annual Latin Jazz Conference, Featuring Esteemed Artists and In-Depth Discussions
Ottawa, ON – September 4, 2025 – The National Arts Centre (NAC) will once again be the vibrant heart of Latin jazz as the Ottawa Latin Jazz Conference returns for its highly anticipated second edition, running from September 26 to 28, 2025. This three-day event promises an immersive experience, bringing together world-class musicians, scholars, and enthusiasts to celebrate the rich diversity and enduring legacy of Latin jazz music. Organized by Latin Hub Canada, the conference aims to foster cultural exchange, promote dialogue, and solidify Ottawa’s position as a key center for intercultural artistic expression.
Building on the success of its inaugural year, the conference offers a dynamic program featuring live performances, insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and valuable networking opportunities. This gathering serves as a crucial platform for artists and audiences alike to connect with the evolving landscape of Latin jazz, exploring its historical roots, cultural influences, and contemporary impact.
Exploring the Legacy and Cultural Encounters
The conference agenda is designed to delve deeply into the genre’s multifaceted nature. A pivotal moment on Saturday, September 27, will be the panel discussion titled “The Legacy of Latin Jazz in North America.” This engaging session will be moderated by Danilo Navas, Executive Director of the Latin Jazz Network, and will feature esteemed panelists including renowned jazz luminary Jane Bunnett, Marietta Ulacia, and Douglas Leibinger. They are expected to explore how Latin jazz has evolved, highlighting its key figures, stylistic innovations, and its significant influence on both Latin American and global music scenes. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the creative processes that define this influential genre.
Further enriching the discourse, a special conversation on “Cuban Musicians in Canada: Histories and Encounters” will feature Emeritus Professor Karen Dubinsky and Dr. Maylin Ortega Zulueta. Professor Dubinsky, author of “Strangely, Friends,” has extensively researched the personal and cultural connections between Cubans and Canadians, particularly focusing on the experiences of musicians who have found a home in Canada. This discussion will shed light on the historical narratives and lived experiences of Cuban artists within the Canadian music landscape, offering invaluable insights into migration, cultural adaptation, and artistic contribution.
Showcasing Diverse Latin Jazz Talent
The conference will also highlight an impressive roster of musical artists, presenting a spectrum of Latin jazz styles. Friday evening, September 26, kicks off with ticketed concerts featuring the Ottawa-based Carlos Alberto Santana Jazz Quartet and the Calgary ensemble Montuno West. Montuno West, celebrated for their energetic fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz improvisation, has garnered acclaim, including a Calgary Music Award for World Recording of the Year in 2019.
Saturday evening will see performances by Dánae Olano and Joanna Majoko, supported by special guests including Daniela Olano, Roberto Riverón, and Amhed Mitchel. Dánae Olano, a Havana-born pianist based in Toronto and a founding member of the Juno Award-winning band Jane Bunnett and Maqueque, is recognized for her deep exploration of Cuban piano traditions and jazz mastery. Vocalist Joanna Majoko, known for her versatile talent across jazz, neo-soul, and R&B, will also captivate the audience with her passionate performances. The evening’s lineup will also include the innovative sounds of Julian Gutierrez’s Project from Sherbrooke.
Sunday, September 28, will feature free daytime programming, including a “Voice in Motion: African Roots in Latin Jazz” session led by Joanna Majoko, offering a unique perspective on the genre’s foundational elements. The conference will culminate with a closing concert by The Ottawa Latin Jazz Orchestra and friends, led by Cuban pianist Miguel de Armas, showcasing a powerful blend of original compositions and traditional Cuban melodies infused with jazz improvisation.
A Hub for Learning and Artistic Exchange
Beyond the performances, the conference is a crucial space for learning and networking. Montuno West will lead a free Latin Jazz workshop on Saturday afternoon, offering practical insights into the genre’s rhythmic and improvisational techniques. Networking sessions scheduled throughout the event will provide invaluable opportunities for artists, industry professionals, and fans to connect, share ideas, and foster collaborations. This emphasis on dialogue and community building is central to the conference’s mission to invigorate Ottawa’s music scene and expand the reach of Latin jazz.
The Ottawa Latin Jazz Conference stands as a testament to the vibrant and ever-evolving nature of Latin jazz, offering a rich program that celebrates its history while looking towards its future. This event invites the community to engage with compelling music, thought-provoking discussions, and the inspiring artists who continue to shape this dynamic genre.
