The XIII Jazz Palencia International Festival is set to begin an intense weekend, highlighted by a concert featuring Antonio Serrano and the Kaele Jiménez Quartet. On Saturday, 7 November, at 20:30, the Teatro Principal will host the presentation of Jazz CaLó, a project that blends the depth of flamenco with the creative freedom of jazz, fostering a dialogue between musicians from different generations.
Antonio Serrano, an internationally renowned harmonica player and recipient of the 2025 National Prize for Current Music, will share the stage with Kaele Jiménez, one of the most promising young talents in piano. They will be joined by drummer Marc Miralta and bassist Juanfe Pérez, completing a lineup capable of combining virtuosity, sensitivity, and powerful energy on stage.
Jazz CaLó embodies the spirit of historic collaborations between artists such as Paco de Lucía and Chick Corea, Tomatito and Michel Camilo, or Chano Domínguez and Javier Colina, while forging its own path. The harmonica and piano lead a conversation where flamenco rhythms, improvisation, and the synergy between performers create fresh, vibrant music full of surprises.
Nominated for the Best Jazz Album at the 2026 Spanish Music Academy Awards, the project offers a unique opportunity to witness the meeting of a musician who accompanied Paco de Lucía and the personality of a new generation exploring innovative interpretations of flamenco and jazz.
The Saturday evening will also feature a fusion of literature and music. Prior to the concert, the IX Ramos Ópticos Prize for the best jazz-related story will be awarded, organised by the Jazz Palencia International Festival and sponsored by the Palencia-based company Ramos Ópticos. The award will go to writer Miguel Barrero for his story “The man who still remembered Lester Young.” The jury praised its literary quality, extraordinary dialogues, and realistic portrayal of the jazz world.
Other activities throughout the week include a tribute to Slim Gaillard and Slam Stewart, a vermouth jazz concert with Malavara, and a family show titled Swing for Kids. Additionally, the film “Devil in a Blue Dress” will be screened, and the exhibition “Jazz is in the Books” will be on display at the Palencia Public Library. The XIII Jazz Palencia International Festival continues its programming, transforming the city into a hub for music, featuring renowned artists, family-friendly proposals, and activities that integrate jazz into everyday life.
