Drawing on two very distinct cultural expressions, Jazzoleá captures the mysterious melodies, rhythms and dances of flamenco and channels them through the ever changing, ever exciting music phenomenon we know as jazz. Original pieces and standards, combine to create a repertorio which bridges the gap between the old, the new, the contemporary and the traditional. Choreographies, whilst maintaining the form and rhythms of flamenco dance, are twisted and turned to respond to the spirit and swing of jazz.

The cosmopolitan group is made up of artists from both Spain and England. London born Esther Weekes, both jazz singer and flamenco dancer, has trained as a flamenco dancer in Spain over 12 years in Madrid, Granada and Seville. She has ample experience performing within flamenco, jazz and blues festivals throughout Andalusia.

Cristian de Moret, up and coming figure within the flamenco world is both a flamenco and jazz pianist as well as a flamenco singer. He has won prizes for his work as both composer and singer within the flamenco world and he is the former pianist for The Andalusian Flamenco Ballet.

Pablo Pradas, flamenco guitarist and bass player, provides the flamenco based essence of Jazzoleá. His wide experience drawn from his international work within different flamenco companies allows the group to explore new territories whilst maintaining an anchor within the traditional deep roots of flamenco.

David “Chupete” is a world class percussionist and drummer. Though steeped in the traditional form of flamenco (former percussionist for The Andalusian Flamenco Ballet), he is also involved within the world of Baroque music. Through David, the unparalleled complexity of flamenco rhythm is an ever present support accompanying Jazzoleá on its journey through the amazing worlds of flamenco, jazz and blues.

Jazzoleá has performed within jazz and flamenco festivals and theatres throughout Southern Spain. Recent festivals include “Fusión Contemporánea”, “Feria de las Naciones”, “Sherry Jazz Festival of Jerez de la frontera” and “Jazz Flamenco Festival of Ronda”. They have also performed regularly at the Museum of Flamenco Dance and given performance lectures on the connection between flamenco and jazz within University of Pablo Olavide.