A Musical Celebration of Cuba in America

“Two big cultural streams flowing simultaneously ...ancient and experimental at the same time, and capacious enough to include more and more." -Ben Ratliff, The New York Times

Renowned pianist and composer Michele Rosewoman presents New Yor-Uba: A Musical Celebration of Cuba in America, featuring fellow masters from the worlds of contemporary jazz and Cuban folkloric music.  The name “New Yor-Uba” pays homage to the dynamic musical journey of ancient Yoruba culture from Nigeria, through Cuba to present day New York, reflecting its contemporary manifestations.

Brass, saxophones, and a rhythm section complement key Cuban elements including three bata and conga drummers, traditional vocals and dance.  New Yor-Uba salutes the Orishas (Yoruban deities) in a contemporary jazz setting with a distinctive repertoire featuring Ms. Rosewoman’s original compositions and visionary arrangements that Incorporate a large spectrum of Cuban spiritually-based music, including, Yoruba (Nigeria), Arará (Dahomey), Abakuá…