Fran Vielma & Venezuelan Jazz Collective

Led by master percussionist Fran Vielma, the Venezuelan Jazz Collective is an innovative jazz ensemble that comprises an outstanding cast of world-class musicians based in the US. The group performs the world premiere of Common Grounds, Vielma’s new work that weaves together Venezuelan music with rhythms from other countries in South America and the Caribbean commissioned by Chamber Music America.

The ensemble’s awareness of the jazz tradition, classic concert music, and an upbringing surrounded by the Caribbean and South American genres allow this all-star group to go from one idiom to the other with masterful spontaneity and musicianship. Their debut album Tendencias includes nine original compositions by the leader and one song by the laureate Venezuelan songwriter Simón Díaz, and was included in “Best of Year” lists from DownBeat, NYC Jazz Record, and the Latin Jazz Network. Vielma arranged these pieces bringing components of hard bop, free jazz, concert music, and…