EDMAR CASTANEDA TRIO

The harp becomes a spectacular jazz instrument in the hands of this Columbian rising star from New York. ‘He creates an amazing variety of textures’ (Downbeat).

He can turn the harp into a bass, a guitar, piano or a percussion instrument: Edmar Castaneda is known for his spectacular performances. The Columbian born harpist from New York rose to stardom in the world music scene and he already performed at the Bimhuis in 2008. Now he’s recognized in jazz, in the annual Downbeat Critics and Readers Polls, returning to the Bimhuis with his energetic mixture of jazz, funk, Latin and Columbian folk.

‘He blends bass lines with melodies, takes virtuoso solos and swings with total dedication. Castaneda uses the body of the harp of his South American folk harp as a drum and techniques from jazz and world music. It’s clever how he unites bebop with flamenco rasgueados, played with filed nails. A cool funk loop gradually turns into joropo, the Latin harp style from his native country. His timbre is wide-ranging, from whispers to loud, percussive notes’ (de Volkskrant).

The Bimhuis restaurant is open prior to the concert from 6.30 til 8.30PM (reservations via 020-7882158). After the concert, the Bimhuis Café is open (free entrance).