Arturo O'Farrill Joins the Blue Note Label Under Universal Music Group, Plans to Release New Music, Discusses His Future Music Ventures
In the heart of New York City, the Afro-Latin Music and Arts Center (ALMA) is set to establish a significant presence in East Harlem, also known as "El Barrio". This cultural organization, dedicated to promoting Afro-Latin music and arts, will operate under the leadership of renowned pianist and composer Arturo O'Farrill, founder of the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance (ALJA).
Arturo O'Farrill, a five-time GRAMMY Award-winning artist, has made a name for himself in the music industry. His commitment to Afro-Latin cultural advocacy is evident in his work with ALJA and his role as the associate dean for equity, diversity, and inclusion at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music.
The new ALMA project, which includes a 16,000 square foot center and nearly 600 affordable homes, aims to foster cultural pride and education in East Harlem. The center will host professional music performances and offer free or affordable music education to people of all ages.
In addition to his work with ALMA, O'Farrill is currently working on several exciting projects. He is creating an opera called Lucero, and his upcoming album, inspired by the Cuban dance company Malpaso and Ernest Hemingway's "The Old Man and the Sea", will be released on Blue Note Records.
O'Farrill will also tour throughout California in October, performing "Four Questions" with his GRAMMY Award-Winning Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra. This collaborative performance with Dr. Cornel West is scheduled for The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. on October 30, 2021.
Moreover, O'Farrill is involved in initiatives at UCLA. The Anti-RacismAction Committee at UCLA will ramp up the Still Waiting Speaker Series, featuring recognized national leaders addressing issues related to institutionalized racism in academia and higher music education. The committee will also issue a public report and recommendations, working closely with the Dean's Office to implement the committee's recommendations.
For more information about the ALMA Center, click here. For details about Arturo O'Farrill's performance at The Kennedy Center, visit The Kennedy Center's website. O'Farrill also has two vinyl projects in limited release: "The Centennial Suites" and "Love and Resilience".
As the Afro-Latin Music and Arts Center (ALMA) prepares to open its doors in East Harlem, it promises to be a beacon of cultural expression and education, further enriching the vibrant tapestry of New York City's arts scene.
- Arturo O'Farrill, known for his work in education-and-self-development at The UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music, will also oversee the Afro-Latin Music and Arts Center (ALMA) in East Harlem, offering lifestyle experiences such as music education and professional performances.
- The eclectic offerings at the ALMA Center don't just stop at music; patrons can expect engaging discussions on general-news topics, as well as enjoy literature-inspired entertainment through O'Farrill's upcoming opera, Lucero, and his album inspired by Ernest Hemingway's "The Old Man and the Sea".
- As the cultural landscape of New York City continues to evolve, those interested can stay updated on the latest music, opera performances, and educational workshops by following Arturo O'Farrill's work, or by visiting bookstores for all things related to his literary projects like "The Centennial Suites" and "Love and Resilience".
