A program released by the municipality in the Leiria district highlights a fusion of “different musical languages and enjoyment spaces,” described by the municipality in a statement, presenting this year’s innovation as “a closer connection with the community.”
This approach entails “concerts not only in the city but also in São Pedro de Moel,” which will host two events with “a diverse and innovative lineup,” according to the organizers.
The festival opens on the 11th at Teatro Stephens with the Francisco Gomes Trio, bringing to Marinha Grande a tribute performance to the pianist and composer Cedar Walton, a notable figure in Afro-American jazz.
The following day, the same venue will host ‘Pangea,’ a performance led by pianist Máximo, accompanied by Joppe van Noten (drums) and Jan Honnef (bass), featuring audiovisual input from Joana Cardoso.
On the 18th, the Edifício Cosmos Azul e Mar in São Pedro de Moel will welcome the Afonso Pais Trio, featuring mentor Afonso Pais alongside Bernardo Moreira (double bass) and João Pereira (drums) to present a program where iconic James Bond movie soundtracks take on a ‘groove’ and ‘swing’ dimension.
Moroccan Maalem Houssam Guinia will also perform at the beach of São Pedro de Moel, within the garden of Casa-Museu Afonso Lopes Vieira.
A young master of Gnawa music, Houssam Guinea brings on the 19th the hypnotic sounds of West African ceremonial folklore.
The festival will conclude with a special performance by the Branco toca Marco Paulo project at Teatro Stephens: on the 26th, Pedro Branco’s trio invites Benjamim to lend his voice, guitar, and sensitivity to this project, reinventing Marco Paulo’s hits in a jazz version.
