Samba Meets Jazz Workshops program

From July 24 through 30, and July 31 through August 6, College of the Atlantic (COA) in Bar Harbor, Maine, will once again be the site for the third annual Samba Meets Jazz Workshops program.

Leading the program are world-class jazz guitarist and educator Roni Ben-Hur and Artistic Director virtuoso Brazilian bassist Nilson Matta. New faculty for 2011 include legendary pianist, composer and educator Arturo O'Farrill; multi-instrument reed player Steve Wilson (saxophone, flute, clarinet); vocalist and co-founder of the New School's Vocal Jazz program, Amy London (returning for her second year), percussionist Gilad, recognized by Jazziz as "one of the world's great percussionists and drummer Zack O'Farrill, recently lauded by All About Jazz as one "of the youngest Latin jazz lions to roar onto the scene in quite some time."

People of any age or experience level are welcome to this event. Both working with world-class musicians and the location is inspirational, not to mention the small class size, which gives those who attend an opportunity to expand their skill sets and understandings.

Says Ben-Hur, “Being involved with music in this spectacular setting provides people with an opportunity to regenerate their batteries." He adds, “After weeks of being involved with the stress of everyday life for 50 weeks of the year, at Samba Meets Jazz, they have the opportunity to reconnect with their creativity in a nurturing and supportive environment. Being exposed, daily for a week or two, to wonderful music in classes, jams and concerts provides them with a great source of inspiration and allows them to return to their lives feeling fulfilled and exhilarated."

Registration for annual Samba Meets Jazz Workshops program is open now.