2008 News
D'Rivera Honored at Seton Hall University
On December 16th, Paquito D'Rivera was honored "...for his illustrious artistry, extraordinary humanitarian efforts, and legendary commitment to better our global community, defend the rights of others, and bring joy through music to the world." The honor was presented at the Joseph A. Unanue Latino Institute at Seton Hall University.
Tanglewood Announces Jazz Lineup: D'Rivera to Appear Sept. 4
At this year's Tanglewood Jazz Festival, the Boston Symphony announced Paquito D'Rivera will be performing on Sept. 4 in the evening. A three day festival held on Labor Day weekend, performances of the festival (Sept. 4 - 6) are to take place at Seiji Ozawa Hall on the Tanglewood grounds in Lenox, MA. Tickets go on sale Feb. 15 at 8:00 pm.
All About Jazz Interview "Paquito D'Rivera: Jack of All Trades"
On December 18, Online ezine "All About Jazz", publishes interview with D'Rivera entitled "Paquito D'Rivera: Jack of All Trades".
D'Rivera Wins 2008 Clarinet of the Year in Reader's Poll
Downbeat Magazine, a publication dedicated to "jazz, blues and beyond" annually holds a Reader's Poll to determine the best in jazz in several categories. To hit the news stands in December 2008, Paquito D'Rivera has for the second year in a row, been elected "Clarinet of the Year" in 2008 by readers of Downbeat Magazine. Early results can be viewed at BMI News with all the categories.
D'Rivera Honored with Creative Artist Image Award
On October 27, the New York City Comptroller, William C. Thompson, Jr., honored 5 New Yorkers at the Annual Latino Heritage and Culture Celebration. Paquito D'Rivera was one of five honorees recognized for "...outstanding contributions that Latino New Yorkers make to the life of our city..." and was joined by honorees Antonio Perez, President of Borough of Manhattan Community College; Glenis Henriquez, Director of external affairs with the New York City Department of Small Business Services; Susana Tubert, co-founder and executive director of the Latino International Theater; and Erasmo Ponce, founder and president of Tortilleria Chinantla, Inc.
D'Rivera Awarded Certificate of Gratitude
On October 26, the Society of Cuban American Engineers and Architects, presented Paquito D'Rivera a Certificate of Gratitude in recognition of his achievements as an award winning artist and composer.
D'Rivera Appears on "Songs of Joy & Peace"
On
October 14, Yo-Yo
Ma released his new album "Songs of Joy
& Peace." This
unique recording deemed "a spiritual journey" has many of Ma's friends
including James Taylor, Diana Krall and Paquito D'Rivera. D'Rivera
appears as Guest Artist on the title track "Invitación al Danzón."
Available at 
.
Podcast from KPLU Jazz NW Program
Jazz NW program from KPLU has made a podcast of their Sunday program featuring Paquito D'Rivera and Alex Brown, piano who recently performed at Port Townsend Jazz Festival.
Paquito D'Rivera Receives Frankfurt Music Prize
The Frankfurt Music Prize was founded in 1980 and is awarded annually by the Trustees of the Frankfurt Music Prize Foundation to personalities from the world of music for special achievements in the fields of interpretation, composition, musicology and teaching. The prize is presented each year on the eve of the International Musikmesse (March 11, 2008).
Funk Tango Wins GRAMMY!
Funk Tango won Category 50 for "Best Latin Jazz Album"
D'Rivera Signs with Boosey and Hawkes
Boosey and Hawkes is now representing Mr. D'Rivera's compositions.
Video Interview at Jazz at Lincoln Center
This month, "The Mouthpiece" on the website of Jazz at Lincoln Center, you can view a video interview with Paquito D'Rivera about his appearance at the "Afro-Cuban Fiesta!" in the Rose Theater, Feb. 22 and 23.
D'Rivera
Receives IAJE President's Award
On January 9, Paquito D'Rivera was presented the IAJE President's Award by the International Association of Jazz Educators. The award recognizes outstanding leaders in the jazz community and honors D'Rivera "for his incalculable impact on the evolution and perpetuation of the Jazz Art Form and for his tremendous commitment and support for Jazz education."
The award was presented in Toronto, Canada, where the annual IAJE Conference was held.
Photo by R. Andrew Lepley