The Dizzy Gillespie Afro Latin Experience

History has produced its share of great artists and great people—John Birks “Dizzy” Gillespie was both!

Celebrate the legendary trumpeter’s legacy at SOPAC!

The Dizzy Gillespie Afro-Latin Experience showcases Gillespie’s love of world music, which he artfully and innovatively fused with Jazz throughout his career. His vast repertoire included compositions that were inspired by his love of African, Argentinian, Brazilian, Caribbean, Cuban, and Spanish musical cultures.

The Dizzy Gillespie All Stars coming to SOPAC include Gillespie’s long-time bassist, musical director, and SOPAC Jazz in the Loft curator John Lee, as well as Gillespie’s former drummer Tommy Campbell. Others include Freddie Hendrix on trumpet and flugelhorn, Sharel Cassity on alto saxophone and flute, Brazilian pianist and vocalist Abelita Mateus, and Roger Squitero on congas, bongos, and percussion.

Don’t miss the All Stars as they bring Gillespie’s beloved melodies of Manteca, Tin Tin Deo, and more to SOPAC’s stage!