OLG Free the Jazz - Miguel de Armas + Elmer Ferrer

Internationally renowned Cuban pianist Miguel de Armas moved to Canada in 2011, bringing with him a rich and sophisticated musical heritage gleaned over many years of study, performance, and composition. As a co-founder of N.G. La Banda — one of Cuba’s most legendary timba bands — de Armas packed concert halls around the world. Created in 2013, The Miguel de Armas Quartet features Marc Decho on bass, Michel Medrano on drums and Diomer González on congas. Since then they have rocked the National Capital Region with its astounding musicianship and a thrilling fusion of Jazz and Afro Cuban music. This band has demonstrated masterful, independent yet collaborative playing, with articulate, impassioned, and powerful synchronicity. An uplifting, dynamic presence on stage, the Miguel de Armas Quartet brings energy, joy, and enthusiasm to audiences everywhere.

For Elmer Ferrer music is an avenue to inspire. Elmer is a Cuban-Canadian Juno nominated guitarist, composer and producer based in Toronto. He rehearses and plays music influenced by his Cuban roots on the Markham Jazz Festival’s stage for the first time since the pandemic because he wants to inspire his audience to embrace the Latin-Jazz culture. Known for captivating audiences and critics alike with his unique musical arrangements, Elmer has headlined international jazz, blues, and music festivals, and shared stage line-ups with Keb Mo, Johnny Lang, Bonnie Raitt, Van Morrison, Kid Rock, the Chris Duarte Group, Los Lobos, and the Derek Trucks Band.

Roberto Riverón - Bass
Michel Medrano Brindis - Drums
Diomer González - Congas
Elmer Ferrer - Guitar
Miguel de Armas - Piano