It has been noted by musical historians that African rhythms preserved and maintained in the Caribbean (particularly Cuba) began to pollinate with the rich sounds of jazz as Cuban and Puerto Rican musicians began to play with American jazz bands in the 20s and 30s. It wasn’t until the 40s when Cuban jazz musicians and composers such as Mario Bauzá brought the clavé, a 2-3 or 3-2 pattern fundamental to Afro-Cuban-Salsa music along with Cuban musical harmonies and arrangements, to the United States. With enthusiastic reception from well-known band leaders such as Chick Webb, Dizzy Gillespie, Cab Calloway, and others, Cuban musicians made their mark on the American jazz scene.

Afro-Cuban jazz and Salsa were two of the many musical genres that Donald Sanchez enjoyed in his youth. In the early 1990s, he wanted to document the Latin Jazz scene in New York. His goal was to marry the two things he loves—photography and Latin Jazz music. For a short period of time, he had the privilege of photographing a small number of musicians in the field, many of whom are no longer with us. Their musical footprints will continue to live and thrive.

This photo exhibit by local Puerto Rican-Caribbean photographer Donald Sanchez showcases many greats such as Dizzy Gillespie, Mongo Santamaria, Tito Puente, and Ray Barretto, to name a few.  The exhibit will be on display at Queens University of Charlotte in the lower level of Dana Hall from September 16th through November 15th with a reception and artist talk on September 26th from 6-8 p.m.  The exhibit and talk are free and open to the public.