Hot Havana Nights
Featuring The Andy Nevala Latin Jazz Quartet
Step into the vibrant streets of Havana for an unforgettable evening of rhythm, passion, and Latin jazz artistry with Hot Havana Nights featuring The Andy Nevala Latin Jazz Quartet. Blending the infectious energy of Afro-Cuban rhythms with the sophistication of jazz improvisation, this dynamic ensemble transports audiences to a world of sultry melodies, exhilarating percussion, and irresistible grooves.
Led by acclaimed pianist and composer Andy Nevala, the quartet celebrates the rich musical traditions of Cuba and Latin America while infusing them with the creativity, spontaneity, and elegance of modern jazz. From fiery salsa-inspired rhythms and intricate Latin percussion to soulful ballads and dazzling instrumental exchanges, every moment captures the spirit, warmth, and excitement of a Havana night.
Audiences will experience a musical journey filled with vibrant colors, rhythmic complexity, and the unmistakable joy that has made Latin jazz a global phenomenon. Whether you are a lifelong jazz enthusiast or simply love great music, Hot Havana Nights promises an evening of unforgettable entertainment where jazz meets the heartbeat of the Caribbean.
Friday, April 30, 2027 at 7 pm
The Carriage House at Stanton Hall
401 High St., Natchez, MS
Tickets Available Soon
Andy Nevala
Dr. Andy Nevala is an accomplished and widely respected musician, composer, arranger, educator, and bandleader. He currently serves as Director of Jazz Studies at Jacksonville State University, where he brings extensive professional experience and artistic leadership to the next generation of jazz musicians.
As leader of the Andy Nevala Quartet, Dr. Nevala has earned numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including ten individual DownBeat Music Awards. His most recent quartet release, El Rumbón, remained on the Top 50 JazzWeek chart for six months, reflecting both critical recognition and strong national radio support.
The Andy Nevala Quartet has performed at major festivals and venues throughout the United States and abroad, including the Grenada International Music Festival, the Merida International Jazz Festival, and the Gouvy Blues and Jazz Festival in Belgium. Through his work as a performer, composer, arranger, and educator, Dr. Nevala continues to be a dynamic voice in contemporary jazz.
The Andy Nevala Latin Jazz Quartet
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Andy Nevala Quartet is its rich international makeup. Percussionist Emrah Kotan brings roots from Turkey, while Frankie Quinones contributes the vibrant influence of his Puerto Rican heritage. Bassist Andy Eulau brings deep experience from the New York music scene, where he performed with many leading Latin artists.
For this performance, the quartet will be joined by special guests Eddie and Mayi Lopez. Eddie, a Chicago native with Mexican roots, and Mayi, originally from Matanzas, Cuba, bring additional depth, authenticity, and energy to the evening.
Together, these artists create a sound filled with rhythmic vitality, cultural richness, and irresistible joy. Their performances invite audiences not only to listen, but to move, celebrate, and dance.
The program will open with the quartet performing music from Cuba and the Caribbean, followed by a salsa dance lesson. In the second half, Eddie and Mayi Lopez will join the quartet for a vibrant celebration of Cuban music.