For this encore Family Matinee performance, the Bay Area’s own multi-instrumentalist, bandleader and educator Jackeline Rago shares her passion for the rich and diverse music of her native Venezuela. Joined by a cast of stellar and versatile musicians, Rago showcases her extraordinary cuatro chops, highlights the hypnotic sounds of the bamboo quitiplás, and demonstrates the techniques of the Dahomean-derived culo e puya drums made of avocado wood. Rejoice in the rhythms of Venezuela and relive this exciting matinee with us at SFJAZZ!

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Jackeline began playing music at the age of four. Prior to moving to the United States, she spent years studying the Folk-Venezuelan cuatro (national string instrument) and mandolin at the Manuel Antonio Carreño Primary School under the tutelage of Venezuelan folklorist Angel Guanipa. During her teenage years, she completed studies in music theory and harmony at the Escuela de Musica Prudencio Esaa as well as courses in classical mandolin at the Caracas Philharmonic Orchestra Conservatory under maestro Ivan Adler. Her decades-long tenure in the Bay Area includes performances with an array of Latin and world music artists including Holly Near, Linda Tillery and the Cultural Heritage Choir, Omar Sosa, the Oakland Youth Chorus, various Windham Hill recording artists and many others.

Set List
TBA

ARTIST PERSONNEL
Jackeline Rago Venezuelan cuatro, percussion and vocals
Anna Maria Violich vocals and hand percussion
Yonathan Gavidia congas, hand drums and hand percussion
Abelardo Boloño electric bass and hand percussion
Marlon Aldana drums

Special guest
Juliana Mendonca dancer