Workshop2Ensemble
Projects
Workshop2Ensemble is currently developing a multi-phase artistic initiative focused on the creation, performance, documentation, and recording of original music and historically significant repertoire within the Latin Jazz tradition.
The project brings together a nonet of professional musicians to explore Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz as its primary foundation while engaging its broader musical continuum, including African American funk, straight-ahead jazz, and Afro-Cuban forms derived from son montuno, such as salsa.
Project Overview
This initiative is centered on the development of a cohesive body of work that includes:
• original compositions and arrangements by Carlos E. Pozo Jr
• rehearsal and ensemble development
• professional video production
• live performances
• long-term recording projects
• preservation and reinterpretation of underrepresented repertoire
Phase 1 - Rehearsal and Ensemble Development
The first phase of the project focuses on preparing the ensemble to perform a challenging and stylistically diverse repertoire at a high professional level.
This phase will include 4–6 structured rehearsals, each approximately two hours in length, during which the ensemble will develop proficiency across 8–10 compositions spanning Latin Jazz, funk-influenced material, straight-ahead jazz, and Afro-Cuban forms.
Given the complexity of the music—including ensemble precision, rhythmic coordination, and improvisation—this rehearsal process is essential to achieving artistic cohesion.
This phase establishes the musical foundation necessary for all subsequent recording and performance activities..
Phase 2 - Video Production: Original Compositions
The second phase will produce three professionally recorded performance videos, featuring original compositions by Carlos E. Pozo Jr:
• University of Harlem at 138th Street
• When Dreams Come True
• Epiphany
These recordings will serve as:
• artistic documentation
• core media for grant applications
• promotional material for venues and festivals
Phase 3 - Live Performance Development
Following the video production phase, Workshop2Ensemble will present live performances in New York City and Westchester County.
These performances will:
• introduce the ensemble to regional audiences
• refine the repertoire in a live setting
• build relationships with venues and arts organizations
Phase 4 - Album Recording: Original Works
The first full-length recording project will feature original compositions and arrangements by Carlos E. Pozo Jr, written specifically for the nonet.
This recording will establish the ensemble’s artistic voice and contribute new work to the Latin Jazz repertoire.
Phase 5 - Album Recording: The Music of Bobby Paunetto
The second recording project will focus on the unrecorded and underrepresented compositions of Bobby Paunetto.
Drawing on his direct study with Paunetto, Carlos E. Pozo Jr will create original nonet arrangements of these works, presenting them in a contemporary ensemble context.
This phase aims to preserve and elevate an important but under-recognized body of work within the Latin Jazz tradition.
This phase is dedicated to the preservation and wider presentation of historically significant but underrepresented repertoire by Bobby Paunetto. All music presented will be properly licensed for performance and recording, with royalties administered through established industry organizations. If used, any visual materials will be used with appropriate permissions or replaced with original commissioned artwork where necessary.
Project Deliverables
• 4–6 professional rehearsals supporting ensemble development
• 3 professionally produced performance videos
• live performances in NYC and Westchester County
• 1 full-length album of original compositions
• 1 full-length album dedicated to the music of Bobby Paunetto
Long-Term Vision
This initiative establishes Workshop2Ensemble as an ongoing artistic platform dedicated to:
• original composition
• preservation of important repertoire
• performance across multiple related musical traditions
Through continued development, recording, and performance, the ensemble seeks to contribute to the long-term evolution of Latin Jazz and related musical forms.
Funding
Funding will support:
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preparation and distribution of musical arrangements
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musician compensation for rehearsals
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rental of rehearsal space
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video production
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community engagement and education programming
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public performances