Edmar Castañeda brings his quartet to Shanghai as part of the 2026 Jazz Spring series. Known for rethinking what the harp can do, he leads a jazz ensemble with a style that blends Colombian roots with contemporary jazz.

About the Performance

Part of the 2026 Jazz Spring program, this concert features harpist and composer Edmar Castañeda leading his quartet. Known for his command of the Colombian llanera harp, he builds a sound that combines rhythm, melody, and harmony in a way that challenges expectations of the instrument. His playing draws from traditional Colombian joropo while incorporating elements of contemporary and Latin jazz.

Performers

Edmar Castañeda

A Colombian harpist and composer known for his innovative approach to the llanera harp. His technique allows him to play bass lines with the left hand while simultaneously handling melody and harmony with the right, creating the effect of multiple instruments at once. His work blends Colombian roots with jazz influences, giving the harp a new role in modern ensembles.

Why Go

It’s not often that the harp sits at the center of a jazz quartet, let alone drives it. This show is a chance to see how far one instrument can be pushed—rhythm, melody, and structure all handled by a single player. For anyone curious about jazz beyond the usual lineup, this one offers a different angle without overcomplicating it.