Cyro Baptista and the Banquet of Spirits: Sounds of Community

“I don’t even think of him as a percussionist, because he is so much his own personality that it almost transcends any percussion instrument he could be playing.” – Yo-Yo Ma

One of the premiere percussionists on the planet, Cyro Baptista leads his winsome quartet on a virtuosic trek through myriad musics of the world. Washed out surf rock splashes, blazing hardbop solos, breathtaking West African harping, exquisite Brazilian rhythms — the sounds all coalesce into a carnivalesque stew of joy and irreverence as these four astonishing players draw on sounds and instruments from around the globe to create utterly unique combinations.

A veteran of stage and studio work with the likes of Paul Simon, Herbie Hancock, Yo-Yo Ma, Trey Anastasio (of Phish), John Zorn, Laurie Anderson, Cassandra Wilson, Sting, the New York Philharmonic, the Kennedy Center Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and many others, Baptista is one of the most sought-after players around. His visionary approach to music-making stresses inclusion, community and pushing past boundaries, while remaining refreshingly fun and totally accessible.

Throughout the week, Baptista will be leading workshops with a variety of community groups and participants, using everyday objects as well as traditional instruments at the Jean McDonough Arts Center in downtown Worcester. The sessions will culminate in a concert on Sunday, April 3rd featuring Baptista & the Banquet of the Spirits with community participation.

This residency is supported by grants from the Worcester Arts Council, New England Foundation for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.