UCO Latin Music Festival to Feature Percussionist Frank Valdes

February 7, 2008

The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music will present a Latin music festival at the UCO Jazz Lab featuring a visit by New York percussionist Frank Valdes, March 4-6.

Valdes will teach a workshop at 7 p.m., March 4 on Latin Rhythms and Percussion. He also will perform in concert with Oklahoma's own professional Latin Jazz Ensemble, Mezclave, at 8 p.m., March 6.

In addition, the festival will feature a classical Latin concert by UCO faculty and students at 8 p.m. March 5. All events will be held at the UCO Jazz Lab.

Valdes is a 26-year veteran of music performance who performs and tours with the Machito Orchestra, The Richie Cecere Orchestra, The Shirelles, The Dalton Gang and Donna Summers. He also is working on a new CD project entitled "Moving Onward, 2211."

"Oklahoma has great history, and I am excited just to fly out to Oklahoma," said Valdes. "I enjoy performing for various audiences throughout the U.S. There is always something new to learn and share and I hope to make it fun and challenging for the students."

Tickets are $15 for the workshop and the student/faculty concert, and $20 for the headliner concert featuring Valdes.

A package rate of $35 for students and $45 for non-students is available for those wishing to attend all three events.

For more information or tickets, contact the UCO Jazz Lab at (405) 359-7989.

Page updated 2/07/08