New York based avant-garde jazz ensemble AfroHORN comes to Dallas for a week-long residency with the South Dallas Cultural Center followed by a public performance. The ensemble, led by drummer Francisco Mora-Catlett, explores Afro-Caribbean rhythm, sound and vocals as part of the jazz spectrum of American Classical Music. AfroHORN performs a highly-anticipated free public concert at 8 p.m. April 24 at the Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak Street. The concert takes place during Dallas Jazz Appreciation Month (D’JAM), a month-long celebration of the musical art form.

AfroHORN is led by percussionist Francisco Mora Catlett who spent time performing with the Sun Ra Arkestra. His experience with Sun Ra influenced his decision to form AfroHORN, an ensemble that boats an outstanding lineup of musicians including soprano saxophonist Sam Newsome, Alex Harding on baritone saxophone, Aruán Ortiz at the piano, with Hill Green on bass and Roman Diaz accompanying Mora Catlett on percussion. 

AfroHORN's latest recording, RARE METAL, is garnering excellent reviews. iRockJazz says "With the production of Rare Metal, Mora has managed to create some of the most inventive and wildly original music to be played and heard since the first progressive rumbles of the early jazz. This release should be considered one of this year’s best releases and Mora’s apotheosis as a master musician." 

 AfroHorn’s residency schedule includes student workshops with Richland College jazz students Monday and Tuesday, April 21 and 22; a lecture and demonstration for students in the Oak Cliff Cultural Center’s La Rondalla Group and community members on April 22 at 4:30 p.m.; a lecture and demonstration for students and staff at Brookhaven College: School of the Arts on April 23; and a jazz jam at the Balcony Club  April 23 from 9:30 p.m. to midnight. Their Dallas residency concludes with the public performance at the Latino Cultural Center on April 24 at 8 p.m.   

AfroHORN’s residency and public performance is supported in part by South Dallas Cultural Center, National Performance Network, Latino Cultural Center and Richland College. For more information, please contact Sondra Roney at 214-670-8117 or by email at Sondra.Roney@dallascityhall.com.

Dallas Jazz Appreciation Month (D’JAM) is a month-long celebration of the great American musical art form. A list of jazz performances by local artists during the month of April is available by visiting Art&Seek’s D’JAM category page. 

Information provided by City of Dallas.