Mon Sep 15
Percy Chinchilla and Perkutao Afro-Peruvian Jazz - Hispanic Heritage Jazz
7PM / $25 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
Percy Chinchilla and Perkutao Afro-Peruvian Jazz
Perkutao Afro-Peruvian Jazz, led by renowned percussionist Percy Chinchilla, draws inspiration from the rich folkloric traditions of Peru's afro-descendant communities. Comibing traditional Afro-Peruvian rhythms such as the festejo, the landó and the zamacueca with the harmonies and freedom of jazz, Perkutao propels Afro-Peruvian music towards new sound horizons. Chinchilla, considered one of the great masters of Afro-Peruvian music and dance, comes from a legendary lineage of figures of national Peruvian culture. Join Perkutao on a vibrant rhythmic journey, where Afro-Peruvian heritage meets other expressions of the African diaspora from across the Americas, in a unique and powerful musical experience.
Perkutao is a dynamic Afro-Peruvian ensemble founded in 2005 and led by renowned musician, percussionist, zapateador (Afro-Peruvian foot percussionist), and educator Percy Chinchilla. Their debut album, Mis Ancestros ("My Ancestors"), produced by acclaimed percussionist Manongo Mujica, is the fourth installment in the celebrated Perspectivas de la Música Afroperuana (Perspectives on Afro-Peruvian Music) series.
Rooted in the rich rhythms of Afro-Peruvian tradition, Perkutao blends Afro-Cuban, Caribbean, and jazz influences, offering a unique and powerful expression of African diasporic culture. The ensemble has toured internationally, captivating audiences with its fusion of traditional sounds and contemporary global music.
Percy Chinchilla is considered one of the world’s foremost practitioners of Afro-Peruvian music and dance. Born and raised in Lima’s culturally vibrant Callejón del Buque in the La Victoria district, Chinchilla comes from a legendary lineage that includes Afro-Peruvian icons Caitro Soto and Ronaldo Campos. Immersed in this heritage from a young age, when he was 6 he won the prestigious Valentina de Oro dance competition in Lima. By 15, he had earned national acclaim as the winner of Peru’s National Cajón Championship.
A former member of the acclaimed ensemble Perú Negro, Chinchilla has performed across the globe, both with Perkutao and alongside leading figures in Peruvian music such as Eva Ayllón, Cecilia Barraza, and Afroperú.
In recognition of his contributions, Chinchilla has received numerous honors in Peru. These include an achievement award in 2017 from the Municipality of La Victoria for his invaluable impact on national culture, and a 2023 award from the Autonomous Afro-American Movement for his role in preserving and promoting Afro-Peruvian heritage. That same year, he was invited by Peru’s Ministry of Culture to participate in the 18th Anniversary and the 45th meeting of the Afro-Peruvian Working Group.
Chinchilla is proudly endorsed by A Tempo Percussion, and continues to inspire new generations of percussionists and dancers, both in Peru and abroad.
Co-Presented with the Embassy of Peru
7PM / $25 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
1. Final sale, no refunds, not transferable.
2. $15 food/beverage minimum per person not included in ticket price.
3. Seating first come at the door. Doors open 6 PM & 8:45 PM respectively Monday thru Saturday, and 4:30 PM & 7:15 PM Sundays.
4. No Photography or Recording of any kind during the performance.
5. Keep conversation to a minimum during the performance.