At Ravenscroft, Scottsdale’s sleek destination for live jazz which is tucked away in the Scottsdale Airpark, September and October will be anything but ordinary. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the venue is transforming into a celebration of rhythm, culture, and community—one where the music, food, and atmosphere all come alive with Latin spirit.
Latin rhythms have shaped jazz for more than a century, from Afro-Cuban jazz to Brazilian bossa nova, and Ravenscroft is shining a spotlight on that influence with a lineup of powerhouse performances.
The series kicks off with guitarist and vocalist Ike Ramalho on Sept. 26, when his band brings the soul of Brazil to Jazzbird Nights through samba, bossa nova, and improvisations full of warmth and energy. Two days later, Raúl Yañez Quartet takes the stage (Sept. 28) with a dazzling mix of mambo, salsa, bolero, cha cha, cumbia, and samba at a free Jazz for the Soul event benefiting HART Pantry in Peoria. And on Oct. 4, internationally acclaimed bassist Marcos Varela closes out the series with a night of world-class artistry, leading his quartet through original works and improvisations rooted in heritage.
Ravencroft’s 30,000-square-foot venue has quickly become known for its intimate 200-seat concert hall and its modern lounge, Jazzbird, which carries the cool, urban feel of a New York City jazz club. During Hispanic Heritage Month, the celebration goes well beyond the music. There will also be festive touches at every turn, from specialty empanadas, craft margaritas, signature cocktails, and decor inspired by Latin culture. Themed menus, table signage, and colorful banners will add to the energy, turning the concert hall and Jazzbird lounge into a full-sensory experience.
“At Ravenscroft, we want Hispanic Heritage Month to feel like a true community celebration,” says Jeff Christian, Ravenscroft’s director of marketing. “Every show offers a chance to come together and enjoy not only outstanding music, but also festive touches like unique drinks, special food, and an atmosphere as vibrant as the music itself. The energy, the people, and the performances all create an experience that honors heritage while uniting our community through the universal language of jazz.
8445 E. Hartford Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
