Latin jazz trombonist and Philly native Papo Vázquez is coming back to the City of Brotherly Love to be part of “Jazzin’ Up Spring,” a meet and greet hosted by Taller Puertorriqueño.

Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy Latin cuisine, drinks, art and a silent auction. Ticket funds will be used to support Taller Puertorriqueño’s education programs for children and youth. 

Last December, the musician, composer and arranger celebrated his 40-year anniversary of a career that spans jazz, Latin, Afro-Caribbean and classical music and recordings.

His passion for jazz began when he was a teenager and he received two records as a gift, one by J.J. Johnson and the other by John Coltrane. Soon after, he began playing and recording with top artists in the salsa scene like The Fania All-Stars, Celia Cruz, Willie Colón, Eddie Palmieri, Hector Lavoe and Tito Puente.

“As a musician, I feel very blessed that I’ve been able to lead my band for the last 20 years,” Vázquez told AL DÍA. He also takes pride in performing in the main jazz festivals around the world, being nominated for the Grammy, and being one of the go-to musicians for the Jazz Lincoln Center when they need an arrangement for the orchestra.

"Jazzin' Up Spring" will be held on Friday April 22 at The Maas Building, 1320 N. 5th Street, from 5:30 p.m to 7:30 p.m. Admission $50/person, $90/couples


For more information visit www.tallerpr.org