OnTour

Costa Rica

"It was an honor to assist in bringing international attention to our unique North American cultural gem- jazz music The experience was transformative for both the students and myself, fostering growth and understanding - Dr Michael Eckroth, Assistant Professor, Jazz Piano

This March, members of the FIU Jazz Latin Ensemble and Jazz Combos went on tour with Jazz Piano Professor Michael Eckroth to represent the university as participants of the Promising Young Artists (PYA) 2023 Program – a collaboration between The Costa Rican - North American Cultural Center and the Embassy of the United States.

This cultural exchange program allows students and professors from U.S. universities to deepen their connection to, and strengthen learning links with, the Costa Rican public and its students in a way that generates dialogue that brings everyone together from different practices and cultures.

The group's efforts centered around the areas of San Jose and the province of Guanacaste, with the students performing in several sites such as the CCCN, The Lincoln School Concert Hall (San Jose), Colegio Nicoya, Guanacaste Concert Band Amphitheater and the Santa Cruz Sanctuary Church.

The students also conducted masterclasses, sharing their knowledge and passion with aspiring musicians at the Guanacaste Concert Band, SINEM music schools, Escuela de Música de Santo Domingo, and the Instituto Nacional de la Música.

Participating FIU students - Bruno Osega (trumpet), Calvin Gay (bass), Victor Sanchez (percussion) and Dereck Sanguino (guitar) - presented a diverse repertoire that showcased their versatility and talent. From compositions by contemporary jazz virtuosos like Ambrose Akinmusire, Harish Ragavan, Justin Kauflin, and Roy Hargrove to timeless jazz standards, each performance was a testament to the students' dedication and artistry

Yet, this tour was about more than just music Our students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in local culture, savoring the warmth and hospitality of their hosts This cultural exchange provided invaluable personal and professional growth for the students, shaping them into wellrounded individuals

This tour will be remembered as a milestone in the ongoing exchange of music and ideas between the United States and Costa Rica, leaving a lasting impact on all those involved