Photo © Gioele Pozzi
SEAN ARDOIN, 4-TIME GRAMMY-NOMINATED KREOLE ROCK AND SOUL ARTIST FROM NEW ORLEANS, TOURING IN SWITZERLAND WITH SON SEAN DAVID
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Who's in the House?
Welcome to our Guest Book, a space dedicated to celebrating the talented artists and friends who have graced La casa de nadie.
Each entry reflects a unique contribution to the creative energy of our cultural platform, whether through unforgettable performances, insightful conversations, or inspiring collaborations. Explore their stories and discover the vibrant international community that continues to shape our shared artistic vision.
At La casa de nadie, women make up 35%—a number that highlights the need for better gender representation in the arts. By sharing this, we hope to spark awareness and push for more inclusive, equitable creative spaces where all voices are heard.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
ARTISTS FROM DIVERSE CULTURAL AND CREATIVE BACKGROUNDS GATHER AFTER A ZURICH JAM SESSION—A VIBRANT HUB OF EXPERIMENTATION AND COLLABORATION AT THE CORE OF LA CASA DE NADIE, CELEBRATING INTERDISCIPLINARY PRACTICE WITHIN THE CONTEMPORARY ART SCENE.
Explore Artist Profiles
Find the names and stories of artists, creators, and collaborators who are part of our journey, sharing their art and passion with us. Browse our Guest Book by clicking on the names or simply scrolling down to explore!
Alberto García, Alejandro Vásconez, Alessandro Pittini, Alessio Cazzetta, Alexander Febles, Alfio Laini, Amalia Pérez, Amaya Justiz, Amina Scott, Ana Viteri, Ángela Calvo Ríos, Antero Trujillo, Ariel Cusenza, Ask Kæreby, Aurelio Espinoza, Beat Keller, Beatriz Arias, Beatríz Morales, Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves, Bérénice Awa Keller, Bo Dollis Jr., Bryce Eastwood, Byron Coba, Camila Crespo, Carlos Camacho, Carlos Hidalgo, Carlos Pastás, Chico Macedo, Chipi Chacón, China Moses, Christoph Grab, Cosima Bodien, Danny Herrera, Daniel Bagutti, Daniel Schenker, Daniel Somaroo, Darío Barozzi, Dario Bianchin, David L. Harris, David Mendoza, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Didier Espinosa, Dimitris Christopoulos, Dudu Alvear, Edgar López, Edwin Sanz, Elija Tamou, Ella Yépez Knecht, Ery Mancini, Fabián Valverde, Federico Foderaro, Fernanda Delgado, Fernando Corrêa, Francisca Näf, Freddy Benitez, Gabriel Otoya, Genius Wesley, Germán Toro-Pérez, Guy Bettini, Heribel Izquierdo, Humberto Amésquita, Ida Nielsen, Indira González, Isabel Delgado, Javier Alarcón, Javier Leutenegger, Jean-Christophe Groffe, Jean-Jacques Knutti, Jesse McBride, John Boutté, José Braide Leyva Valdés, Josef Zeimetz, José Pino, Josué Omaña, Juan Domingo Pino, Juan Sebastián Ortega Trejos, Juliana Zhu Xinyun, Karina Delgado, Lars Carl Schmid, Lazhar Cherouana, Leandro Irarragorri, Ledian Mola, Liliet Silva, Lorgia Loor, Lula Galvão, Maeva Briacca, Manon Mullener, Márcio de Sousa, María Delia Valencia, Martina Knecht, Mauricio Rodriguez, Mauro Martins, Maxime Paratte, Mesías Maiguashca, Miguel García, Mike Galisatus, Mischa Frey, MISS C-LINE, Muriel Schwarz, Nelson Briceño, Niccolò Monté Rizzi, Oscar Velásquez, Oswaldo García, Pablo Miguez, Paula Gulmini, Paul Gonzalez, Rainie Liu, Rich Harpur, Roohari Prem, Rodrigo Aravena, Rómulo Alarcón, Samuel Boutros, Samuel Toro-Pérez, Sandra Túquerez, Scott Kinsey, Sean Ardoin, Sebastián Córdoba, Silas Kutschmann, Stefano Di Battista, Sylvie Klijn, Simon Wyrsch, Ursula Wienken, Vanessa Collier, Viviane de Farias, Wayne Bergeron, William Valencia, Xiaowen Summer Huang, Yohnny De Miranda, Yosmara Castañeda
DANCER, CHOREOGRAPHER, DIRECTOR (CHINA/HONG KONG)
Juliana Zhu Xinyun
Juliana Zhu Xinyun is a Chinese choreographer and director who made a notable impact in the art world with her critically acclaimed production Catfish Effect (2021). Her academic journey is equally impressive, beginning with her early training at the prestigious Beijing Music and Dance School, followed by studies at Minzu University of China, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (where she earned an MFA in Dance Choreography), and the Academy of Theatre Arts in Bytom, Poland. Juliana began her collaboration with La casa de nadie in 2018, joining us in Zurich for an artistic residency as part of the international graduate program Transcultural Collaboration. This opportunity initially brought her to Zurich, and subsequently expanded our work to Hong Kong and Shanghai. This fruitful partnership resulted in
two major art projects: Asphalt Nature, which premiered at the Kai Tak Campus of the Baptist University in Hong Kong in 2018, and Catfish Effect, presented in July 2021 at the Shanghai International Dance Center. This dance theatre production, featuring music by José Pino and dramaturgy by Hong Tianyi, stands as a testament to her artistic vision and is available for festival programming in Europe (contact La casa de nadie). Juliana’s work is defined by her ability to blend her deep cultural heritage with modern dance aesthetics, creating performances that are both innovative and emotionally resonant. Currently based in Hong Kong, she continues to push the boundaries of contemporary dance while developing new projects that reflect her evolving artistic perspective.
Projects: Asphalt Nature | Catfish Effect
GUITARIST, SOUND ARTIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (ECUADOR/ZURICH)
LA CASA DE NADIE RESIDENT
José Pino
José Pino is an Ecuadorian-born multi-instrumentalist and composer based in Zurich. His musical journey began in Quito as a singer, bassist, and guitarist, later leading him into the world of jazz guitar with a special affinity for Brazilian jazz.
After earning a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Computer Music at the Zurich University of the Arts, he completed a Master of Arts ZFH in Composition and Theory in 2020, specialising in electroacoustic composition. This foundation opened the door to his explorations in sound synthesis, digital composition, and innovative approaches to music production.
Drawing on the rich traditions of Latin American music while continually exploring new sonic territories, José Pino creates works that range from intimate solo pieces to expansive orchestral arrangements. Under his alias Dudu Alvear, he released Night in Hong Kong (La casa de nadie, 2025), a project he now brings to life in a live electronic performance with Ery Mancini as the duo Dual Frequencies, blending rhythmic roots with experimental textures and immersive soundscapes.
As producer and leader of the José Pino Trio, José Pino Quartet, and José Pino Big Band, he brings his vision to the stage and studio, merging improvisation with a contemporary creative approach.
A passionate music educator and founder of the cultural platform La casa de nadie, José is dedicated to fostering cross-cultural exchange and making the arts accessible to all.
From the Shanghai International Dance Center Theatre to the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, and from the ZKM Center for Art and Media Karlsruhe to La Primavera en La Habana in Cuba, José Pino’s compositions have resonated with audiences worldwide. In recent years, his work has spanned Asia, Europe, and Latin America, appearing at festivals, cultural institutions, and concert halls, all while showcasing his distinctive fusion of Latin American roots, inventive sound, and fearless creativity.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Podcast | La casa de nadie Portrait | La casa de nadie Records | La casa de nadie Booking | La casa de nadie Learning Hub | Asphalt Nature | Catfish Effect
DESIGNER, LINGUIST, PRODUCER (SWITZERLAND/ZURICH)
LA CASA DE NADIE RESIDENT
Martina Knecht
Martina Knecht is the driving force behind La casa de nadie, where she has been curating music, video and photo productions, concert events, and media projects since its founding in 2019. Originally from Locarno, Switzerland, Martina studied design in Milan before expanding her expertise into linguistics. Today, she is based in Zurich, where she works as an interior designer, while continuing to lead and contribute to the platform’s artistic and editorial projects.
A certified translator and interpreter, for two decades she has been heading Hypertext, a communication studio providing specialised editorial services for the Swiss market. Throughout this time, she has worked with an impressive roster of high-profile clients, such as the Federal Office for Public Health (FOPH), the Department of Education, Culture, and Sport (DECS) of the Canton and Republic of Ticino, the University of St. Gallen, the Zurich University of the Arts
(ZHdK), the École cantonale d'art de Lausanne (ÉCAL), the Università della Svizzera italiana (USI), MASI Lugano, JazzAscona, and the Locarno Film Festival. With her strong academic foundation and a distinctly interdisciplinary outlook, Martina has been involved in a wide range of creative initiatives — from art exhibitions and publishing projects to media collaborations and digital content creation. In recent years, she has focused increasingly on content writing and cultural journalism, with her interviews featured in the Swiss press, various festival channels, and the La casa de nadie Art Magazine.
Originally starting her career as an illustrator, Martina continues to explore her visual language through her artwork. Under the label Pin-Oops!®, her drawings and paintings are transformed into wall art and fashion items — now available on Redbubble.
Photo © José Pino
Projects: La casa de nadie Art Magazine | Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Portrait | La casa de nadie Podcast
DRUMMER, BASSIST, COMPOSER (BRAZIL/KARLSRUHE)
Mauro Martins
Bassist and drummer Mauro Martins hails from Curitiba, a vibrant metropolis in southern Brazil. He began his musical journey at the age of six, studying both guitar and percussion, and has since developed into a remarkably versatile and expressive artist. Based in Germany for many years, Mauro has moved fluidly across musical genres, earning recognition as a sought-after session musician, arranger, and composer.
His extensive career includes collaborations with internationally acclaimed pop and jazz artists such as Phil Collins, Tania Maria, Richard Galliano, and Chico César.
From the Montreux Jazz Festival to New York’s legendary Blue Note and Birdland, he has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages.
Mauro’s drumming features prominently on the 2022 single Rademés y Pelé (La casa de nadie Records), and he currently drives the rhythmic pulse of the José Pino Quartet. On bass, he partners with Viviane de Farias in the Balakumbala Duo, where his funk- and jazz-infused six-string lines bring vibrant energy to their captivating performances.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Records | La casa de nadie Bookings
SAXOPHONIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (BRAZIL/SÃU PAULO)
Chico Macedo
Chico Macedo is a Brazilian multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger, and educator renowned for his mastery of saxophone, flute, and clarinet. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in Saxophone from FMU/FAAM in São Paulo, he pursued a Master’s degree in Jazz Performance at the Jazz Institute of the Basel Academy of Music (FHNW) in Switzerland.
Back in Brazil, Chico became a key member of the Orquestra Jazz Sinfônica Brasil, playing baritone saxophone and collaborating with notable artists such as Eumir Deodato, Spok, and Diana Krall. Beyond performance, he is also an accomplished conductor and dedicated educator involved in various arts education projects.
Internationally, Chico has performed with the São Paulo State Symphony Orchestra and the Big Band of the Orquestra Jazz Sinfônica at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 2016. He also leads his own project, the Chico Macedo 4teto, where he showcases original compositions blending Brazilian roots with jazz innovation.
In 2022, Chico featured on 500 Miles High with the José Pino Big Band and Tangerine, a more intimate recording with the José Pino Trio—both released by La casa de nadie Records—further solidifying his influence in contemporary jazz. His work continues to weave together the rich heritage of Brazilian music with global jazz sounds, reflecting his vibrant musical journey between Brazil and Switzerland.
PIANIST, COMPOSER (SWITZERLAND/LAUSANNE)
Manon Mullener
Manon Mullener is a Swiss pianist and composer whose music bridges modern jazz and Afro-Cuban rhythms. Raised in a musical family in Fribourg, she began piano at age four and deepened her passion for jazz and Latin music during a formative stay in Havana, Cuba. After returning to Switzerland, she studied at the Bern University of the Arts, working closely with Colin Vallon.
Her debut album Reflejos (2019) was followed by Insomnia (2023) with the Manon Mullener 5tet, blending contemporary jazz with Afro-Cuban influences and touring extensively across Europe and Latin America.
In 2022, Manon won the Support Of Female
Improvising Artists (SOFIA) competition, which enabled her to spend six months in New York developing new compositions. This residency inspired her acclaimed 2024 album Stories, shaped by experiences from her tours.
She has performed at major clubs and festivals worldwide, including the Havana International Jazz Festival with Emmet Cohen and Dayramir Gonzalez. Manon’s versatility shines through collaborations with artists like Nolan Quinn and Nicole Johänntgen. Since 2020, she hosts the Jazz am Sunntig radio show on Radio RaBe and launched the podcast series Jazz am Sunntig Unplugged: New York Series in 2024.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: La casa de nadie Podcast | La casa de nadie Portrait | Watch Interview
SAXOPHONIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (BRAZIL/CREMONA)
Roohari
Roohari is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, composer, and arranger with over 15 years of experience in the music industry. A graduate of Souza Lima and Berklee College of Music in Brazil, he has performed alongside acclaimed artists such as Cauby Peixoto, Toquinho, Rosa Passos, Raul de Souza, and the Soundscape Big Band. Based in Cremona, Italy, Roohari specializes in bossa nova and Brazilian music, with a focus on saxophone performance and composition.
He is active in multiple projects, including Duo Brasiliano with Paula Gulmini (vocals), a duo with José Pino (guitar), and as a member of the José Pino Quartet. Roohari’s innovative musical approach blends improvisation with meditation and interdisciplinary art, drawing inspiration from everyday life. With over seven years of teaching experience, he is passionate about sharing his musical knowledge and creativity with others.
VOCALIST, BIG CHIEF (USA/NEW ORLEANS)
Bo Dollis Jr.
Gerard Bo Dollis Jr. is the Big Chief of the legendary Wild Magnolias Mardi Gras Indian tribe, carrying forward the vibrant cultural legacy of his father, Bo Dollis Sr. Raised within the rich traditions of Mardi Gras Indian culture, Bo Jr. began performing as a child and took over leadership of the tribe in 2012.
His music blends traditional Mardi Gras Indian chants with funk, second-line rhythms, jazz, blues, reggae, and hip-hop, reflecting both heritage and innovation. Bo Jr. led the Wild Magnolias on their 2013 album A New Kind of Funk
and released his acclaimed solo album My Name Is Bo in 2021, produced by longtime friend and mentor Cyril Neville and featuring some of New Orleans’ top musicians.
Bo Dollis Jr. and the Wild Magnolias have performed at iconic venues and major festivals, including JazzAscona in Switzerland, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Summer Olympics, and the White House. Through his leadership and music, Bo Jr. continues to celebrate and share the spirit of Mardi Gras Indian culture worldwide.
Photo © Martina Knecht
GUITARIST, COMPOSER (COLOMBIA/ZURICH)
Sebastián Córdoba
Sebastián Córdoba Upegui is a Colombian guitarist and composer based in Zurich whose work bridges traditional Latin American music with contemporary exploration. He began his musical journey early, first learning flute before picking up guitar under his father’s guidance. The rich traditional sounds of Colombia strongly influenced his initial musical path.
Sebastián studied classical guitar in Medellín and later composition in Zurich, developing a creative approach that dives deep into Latin American myths, ancestral rituals, and socio-political themes shaping his environment.
His music acts as a multidimensional tool, opening bridges of communication between cultures, ideas, and emotions.
The 2020 album Sebastián Córdoba & José Pino (La casa de nadie Records) exemplifies this vision, blending intimate guitar duets with a spirit of collaboration and experimentation. Through his compositions, Sebastián transforms music into storytelling—narrating, warning, and recreating complex realities, much like visual art evokes reflection and emotion. This ongoing creative journey is defined by a restless drive to explore and reinterpret the cultural landscapes that shape him.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: La casa de nadie Podcast | La casa de nadie Records
BASSIST, COMPOSER (CONGO-BRAZIL/WINTERTHUR)
Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves
Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves is a Brazilian bassist, guitarist, and composer with deep Congolese and Angolan roots. His musical journey began early, playing gospel and African music as part of his parents’ family band, The Kuziem Singers.
After completing his jazz bass studies at the Zurich University of the Arts, he discovered a passion for South American and Caribbean music, establishing a second home near
São Paulo, Brazil, from 2013 to 2018.
Since returning to Switzerland in 2019, he has been composing and performing in various formations, such as Nuna Latin Jazz World, The Kuziem Brothers, the Kaan Peeters Quartet, and Ekute Le Trio, blending gospel, hip-hop, African, Caribbean, and South American music into his repertoire.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Room Sessions | La casa de nadie Podcast | La casa de nadie Live Bookings
GUITARIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (BRAZIL/RIO DE JANEIRO)
Lula Galvão
Lula Galvão (b. Brasília, 1962) is one of Brazil’s most acclaimed guitarists and violonists, celebrated for his technical mastery and his distinctive fusion of Brazilian rhythms with jazz. Over the years he has collaborated with some of the most influential names in Brazilian music, including Caetano Veloso, Chico Buarque, Leila Pinheiro, Guinga, and Ivan Lins, and has also performed alongside international jazz luminaries such as Ron Carter, Frank Gambale, and Didier Lockwood. His artistry has taken him to major concert halls and jazz festivals worldwide, establishing him as a leading ambassador of Brazilian music.
A defining chapter of Lula’s career is his long-standing collaboration with renowned vocalist Rosa Passos. Together, they have performed as a duo for many years, enchanting audiences in Brazil, Europe, the United States, and Asia with their intimate, elegant interpretations of Brazilian song.
Their musical dialogue has been praised for its refinement, synergy, and deep connection to tradition while remaining fresh and inventive.
Recognized for his lyrical improvisations, sophisticated harmonic sense, and melodic depth, Lula is equally at home in choro, samba, bossa nova, and modern jazz. His recent contribution to the José Pino Big Band’s recording of 500 Miles High (La casa de nadie Records) highlights the expressive power and versatility that have made him such a sought-after collaborator.
Now based in Rio de Janeiro, Lula continues to expand his artistry, from exploring the cavaquinho to new partnerships with leading composers and performers. Respected both in Brazil and abroad, he is admired not only for his collaborations but also for his ability to push the boundaries of Brazilian music, securing his place as one of the most versatile and influential musicians of his generation.
Projects: La casa de nadie Records
VOCALIST (SWITZERLAND/BASEL)
Jean-Christophe Groffe
Jean-Christophe Groffe has crafted a unique path in music, blending profound expertise with an innovative approach to both classical and contemporary repertoire. As an artist, he is highly sought after for his performances, as well as his research—particularly in collaboration with the Institute for Computer Music and Sound Technology (ICST) in Zurich—and his frequent appearances on radio broadcasts. Groffe is the founder and artistic director of thélème, an ensemble devoted to original interpretations of Renaissance works, and co-director, alongside Francisca Näf, of SoloVoices, which explores contemporary and experimental music. His contributions include numerous recordings, such as Un poeta en la calle by electroacoustic
composer José Pino (from the album Parallele Welten/La casa de nadie Records, 2020), highlighting his versatility and dedication to cross-genre creativity. The album Baisiez moi (thélème/Aparté) earned the prestigious Gramophone Classical Music Award for Early Music in 2022. In 2023, Groffe expanded his creative endeavors by directing a music video for John Dowland's Flow My Tears, featuring thélème, Sarina Panahideh, and Sting. This project further demonstrated his ability to bridge musical traditions with modern storytelling. The video was released alongside the album all we get is life (thélème/Aparté) in 2024, a product of his collaboration with Sting. Watch video >
Photo (detail) © Benjamin Henon
COMPOSER (COLOMBIA/ZURICH)
Carlos Hidalgo
Carlos Hidalgo is a Colombian-born composer, flutist, and sound artist whose work spans instrumental, electronic, and installation music. Originally from Pasto, Colombia, he began his musical career studying flute before pursuing composition at the Leipzig University of Music and completing a master’s degree in electroacoustic composition at the Zurich University of the Arts.
Over the years, he has refined his craft through masterclasses with renowned composers such as Helmut Lachenmann, Beat Furrer, and Georges Aperghis, and has been awarded numerous artist residencies in Germany, Mexico, and Switzerland.
From 2014 to 2022, he was a research associate at the Institute for Computer Music and Sound Technology (ICST), deepening his engagement with sound innovation.
Hidalgo’s music often crosses disciplinary boundaries, intersecting with visual arts, dance, film, and literature. He has collaborated with acclaimed artists including Roman Signer, Peter Mettler, Gisa Frank, Mara Natterer, and Jürg Surber. Currently, he is exploring new approaches to musical improvisation in collaboration with guitarist Beat Keller. His works have been performed at festivals across Latin America, Europe, and the United States, affirming his place as a dynamic and boundary-pushing voice in contemporary music.
PERCUSSIONIST, COMPOSER, PERFORMER (VENEZUELA/GENEVA)
Edwin Sanz
Edwin Sanz, born in Caracas, Venezuela, began his artistic journey as a dancer before discovering his passion for percussion as a teenager with Grupo Madera, one of Venezuela’s leading Caribbean music ensembles. Raised in a family of artists and mentored by his uncle, choreographer Reinaldo Mijares, Edwin quickly mastered a wide array of percussion instruments, including congas, bongos, cajón, timbales, shamanic drums, xequerê, agogô, pandeiro, maracas, and djembé. Today, he is recognized internationally for his virtuosity and versatility across Latin American, jazz, and world music.
A sought-after collaborator, Edwin has performed with legends such as The Gipsy Kings, Tito Nieves, José Alberto, Isaac Delgado, Willie González, Steve Winwood, and Rodrigo & Gabriela, touring globally with their Area 52 project. As bandleader of San Agustín, he blends Latin rhythms, Afro-jazz, and blues, earning accolades such as Best Latin Band at the Glastonbury Festival.
In 2021, Edwin recorded José Pino's bolero Llueve with the José Pino Trio, contributing percussion for Catfish Effect, a contemporary dance production by director Juliana Zhu Xinyun, which premiered at the Shanghai International Dance Center Theater. This project highlights his passion for multidisciplinary collaborations, where music and movement converge.
His career has taken him to major festivals and iconic venues worldwide, including Montreux, North Sea, Paléo, New Orleans, and Edinburgh, as well as Radio City Music Hall in New York and the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles. Through his dynamic artistry, inventive approach, and mastery of multiple traditions, Edwin Sanz continues to captivate audiences and affirm his place as one of the leading percussionists of his generation. He is currently based in Geneva, Switzerland, where he remains deeply engaged in performing, collaborating, and mentoring the next generation of musicians.
PERCUSSIONIST, GUITARIST, ARRANGER (CUBA/ZURICH)
Heribel Izquierdo García is an Italo-Cuban musician based in Zurich, acclaimed for his versatility as a guitarist, percussionist, arranger, and orchestra conductor. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Music and a Master’s in Jazz Music Education from the Lucerne School of Music.
Heribel’s work spans jazz, pop, salsa, rumba, timba, and film scores. As percussionist for bands such as Lele Gorri and the José Pino Trio, he brings his deep rhythmic knowledge and creative energy to their dynamic performances.
Performing under the name Ery Mancini, he dives into electronic music production and
improvisation with Dudu Alvear in the duo Dual Frequencies, merging Cuban rhythmic roots with experimental textures and forward-looking soundscapes. His work reflects a continuous pursuit of innovation, bridging heritage and modernity while pushing the boundaries of rhythm, harmony, and improvisation.
Through his technical mastery, collaborative spirit, and creative versatility, Heribel has established himself as a forward-thinking musician whose performances resonate across genres and international stages.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Room Sessions | La casa de nadie Live Bookings | Read Article
DRUMMER, PERCUSSIONIST (SWITZERLAND/BELLINZONA)
Daniel Bagutti
Daniel Bagutti, born in 1991, is a Swiss drummer and percussionist. Introduced to drums at age 5, he pursued formal training under jazz musician Silvano Borzacchiello from 2003 to 2009, realising his passion could become a profession. His musical journey began with notable appearances alongside Claudio Pontiggia's bands Desamper and La Bottega. Daniel has performed with various Swiss bands and graced stages at rock, jazz, and blues festivals across Switzerland. In 2011, Daniel ventured to New York City, performing at prestigious venues like Zinc Bar and Blue Note. Collaborating with musicians like
John Lander and Dylan Kaminkow, he released his album Interweave in 2015. Returning to Europe in 2014, Daniel joined Michael Fleiner y su Septeto Internacional, touring Switzerland and South America and featuring in renowned jazz festivals. A member of José Pino Quartet, throughout his career, Daniel has shared the stage with esteemed musicians like Juan Munguia, Dudu Penz, and Chip Crawford. Currently, he teaches at The American School In Switzerland and contributes to the Guitar of Stones project with the band Make Plain.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Live Bookings
HAIR ARTIST (ECUADOR/QUITO)
Ariel Cusenza
Juan Domingo Pino, known by his artistic name and established brand Ariel Cusenza, is a hairstylist and hair artist with 30 years of experience, certified in both Europe and Latin America. A four-time national champion in avant-garde hairstyling, his journey began at age 17, and in 1998, he won his first trophy for gala hairstyling. After living and working in Paris, his passion for hairstyling positioned him among the top in
the field globally, with creations showcased in countries like Germany, Belgium, Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Switzerland, Mexico, Panama, Colombia, Argentina, and Uruguay. A natural creator of avant-garde hairstyles, Ariel has established his own style, inspired by the beauty of nature. Currently the owner and creative director of Cízone Saloon in Quito, he continues to educate and inspire new generations of Ecuadorian stylists.
BASSIST, COMPOSER (GERMANY-POLAND/COLOGNE)
Ursula Wienken
Ursula Wienken, born in 2001, is a German-Polish bassist, composer, and bandleader based in Cologne. She is skilled in electric and double bass, specializing in rhythmic and danceable music. Originally from Neuss, Germany, Ursula began her musical journey with the acoustic guitar at age seven and added the electric bass at nine. She later expanded her repertoire to include the double bass upon starting studies at the
Hochschule Für Musik und Tanz in Cologne in 2020. Ursula has performed at prestigious festivals such as the North Sea Jazz Festival and has toured across Europe. In 2022, she was awarded the Neusser Kunstförderpreis for her contributions as a bassist and composer. She has played in notable ensembles such as LaJazzO NR, the Bundesjugendjazzorchester, Lele Gorri and the José Pino Quartet.
Photo © Niclas Weber
TRUMPETER, FLUGELHORNIST (SWITZERLAND/ZURICH)
Daniel Schenker
Daniel Schenker (born 1963 in Zurich) is a distinguished Swiss jazz trumpeter and flugelhornist with a career spanning several decades. He began trumpet lessons at ten and, after studying computer science at ETH Zurich, furthered his musical education with renowned teachers such as Bert Joris, Tom Harrell, Wynton Marsalis, and Malte Burba. Schenker received his professional diploma from the Swiss Jazz School in 1995 and has since become a sought-after sideman in Switzerland, participating in over 70 studio productions. His freelance career includes performances with jazz legends like Kenny Werner, James Moody, Bill Holman, and Joe Haider, and international tours
with artists such as George Gruntz and Pepe Lienhard. Daniel Schenker has led his own quartet since 2001, releasing four albums, and participated in the recording of 500 Miles High with the José Pino Big Band in 2022. Schenker has co-directed the Zurich Jazz Orchestra since 2013, leading projects with artists like Paolo Fresu, Thomas Gansch, and Jojo Mayer. He is also a faculty member at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK) and the Zurich Conservatory of Music (MKZ). Daniel Schenker continues to be a major figure in Swiss jazz, combining his roles as a performer, educator, and innovator in the field.
BASSIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (USA/NEW ORLEANS)
Amina Scott
Bassist, composer, and arranger Amina Scott, leader of the Amina Scott Quintet, is a dynamic force in championing both women’s visibility in the music industry and the enduring legacy of African American music. A respected educator at Loyola University New Orleans and the University of New Orleans, Scott’s versatile career spans collaborations with the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, the DDB Big Band, and acclaimed artists including Dee Dee
Bridgewater, Steve Turre, Wessell “Warm Daddy” Anderson, Nicholas Payton, David Murray, Jamison Ross, Joanne Brackeen, Herlin Riley, and Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah.
At JazzAscona 2023, we had the privilege of an in-depth conversation with Scott, exploring her creative vision, artistic journey, and dedication to shaping the next generation of jazz innovators.
Photo © Martina Knecht
TRUMPETER, SINGER-SONGWRITER, ARRANGER (VENEZUELA/VALENCIA)
Chipi Chacón
Gerald “Chipi” Chacón is a Venezuelan trumpeter, singer-songwriter, arranger, and producer, now based in Spain, recognized as one of Latin America’s most influential and internationally acclaimed musicians. Celebrated for his virtuosic technique, exceptional versatility, and profound artistic sensitivity, Chipi moves fluently across classical music, jazz, and Latin rhythms.
His talent has been endorsed by world-renowned masters, and he has performed on the stages of over 50 countries, appearing at some of the most prestigious international venues and festivals. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with luminaries such as Claudio Abbado,
Simon Rattle, John Williams, Martha Argerich, Krzysztof Penderecki, Bob Mintzer, Arturo Sandoval, Paquito D’Rivera, James Morrison, Perico Sambeat, Oscar D’León, Cheo Feliciano, Lalo Rodríguez, and Gilberto Santa Rosa.
Chipi has released seven albums to date, including his Latin Grammy–nominated third release, Transparente, solidifying his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary Latin music. His performances and recordings showcase an effortless blending of classical rigor, jazz improvisation, and Latin grooves, making him a highly sought-after performer, composer, and collaborator worldwide.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VOCALIST (BRAZIL-USA/KARLSRUHE)
Viviane de Farias
Singer Viviane de Farias has roots in the Indio culture of the Northern state of Ceará but also in Rio’s famous barrio Ipanema. She grew up in Brazil and Los Angeles, developed her acting and singing talents in Rio and Chicago, and dedicated herself to chanson, jazz and—at an early phase of her career—particularly to opera. But soon her Brazilian roots gained more importance in her artistic life as she immersed herself in samba, chôro and bossa nova and the huge repertoire of the "música popular brasileira", with renowned composers such as Ivan Lins,
Chico Buarque, Tom Jobim and Guinga. On her last album Moment Of Passion she already proved that she can put together a programme of bossa, jazz and songwriting in a most flexible, delicate and energy-driven way. Brazil’s most important newspaper, O Globo, heralded her as "one of the big hopes for innovation" in the country’s music.
Viviane, with her extraordinary energy, and Mauro Martins form the Balakumbala Duo, captivating audiences in Zurich and beyond with their vibrant performances.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
TROMBONIST, VOCALIST, COMPOSER (USA/NEW ORLEANS)
David L. Harris
David L. Harris is a lyricist, vocalist, trombonist, composer, and arranger with a deep connection to the traditions of jazz and New Orleans. Over the years, he has performed, recorded, and collaborated with celebrated artists such as Herlin Riley, Wynton Marsalis, Shannon Powell,
Aaron Neville, Aloe Blacc, Dr. Michael White, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra. He has captured and moved audiences in China, Europe, Taiwan, Russia, South America, Australia, Canada, South Africa, and Japan.
PIANIST, COMPOSER (SWITZERLAND/ZURICH)
Leandro Irarragorri
Leandro Irarragorri is a Swiss-Cuban composer, pianist, keyboardist, and bandleader based in Zurich, Switzerland. Drawing inspiration from both Cuban and American music traditions, he seamlessly blends these influences into his compositions. As the leader of the band Lele Gorri, his music not only resonates but pulsates with life. Based in Zurich, the band seeks to re-establish music as a symbiotic experience between the audience and the stage. The diverse lineup of Lele Gorri features naïma on vocals, Heribel Izquierdo
on congas, Ursula Wienken on bass, and Dave Fluetsch on drums. Their music revives rhythmic richness, and combined with their interactive performance, it creates an infusion of joy and vitality. Leandro Irarragorri, with his Cuban roots, holds a Master's degree in Pedagogy from the Zurich University of the Arts. In 2024, Lele Gorri was nominated for the prestigious ZKB Jazzpreis at Zurich’s Moods club and made it into the Top 20 of the JazzLab Competition at the Festival da Jazz in St. Moritz.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
CELLIST, ARRANGER, COMPOSER (CUBA/HAVANA)
Amaya Justiz
Born in Santiago de Cuba in 1997, Amaya Justiz Robert is a Cuban cellist, composer, and educator known for her dynamic and versatile career. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Music, specializing in cello, from the Instituto Superior de Artes (ISA) in Havana. Over the years, Amaya has collaborated with a wide range of ensembles, including Conjunto Achelo, Camerata Habana Martin, and Camerata Romeu, as well as Orquesta Solistas de la Habana and Alma String Quartet (Cuarteto de Cuerdas Alma), the latter of which she co-founded. Her experience spans performances with both classical orchestras and contemporary music groups, and she has worked under esteemed conductors such as Iván Valiente, Ana Martin, and Zenaida Romeu.
As a performer, she has participated in numerous festivals, including La Ruta de Mozart, Habana Clásica, and the International Ballet Festival of Havana, and has collaborated with major artists and groups, including Leo Brouwer (recording his string quartet and quintet works), the Malpaso Dance Company, and the São Paulo-Havana Orchestra in Brazil. Amaya is also passionate about teaching and has served as a cello professor at Centro Loyola, the Amadeo Roldán Conservatory, and Paulita Concepción Elementary School of Music. With her diverse musical background and dedication to education, Amaya continues to be a key figure in both the Cuban classical music scene and the international stage.
Projects: La casa de nadie Room Sessions
DRUMMER, COMPOSER (PORTUGAL/ZURICH)
Márcio de Sousa
Márcio de Sousa is a Portuguese-Swiss drummer and composer who has become a defining voice in Zurich’s jazz scene. Growing up in Switzerland within a Portuguese family, his musical identity blends multicultural influences with a deep-rooted passion for jazz.
A versatile performer, Márcio moves effortlessly from intimate duos to full big band settings. As leader of the Márcio de Sousa Quintet, he delivers a distinctive sound—three brass players cutting through a grounded rhythm section, with collective frontline improvisation at its core—reimagining classic jazz principles for the contemporary stage.
For Márcio, jazz is a living tradition to be
questioned and expanded. His compositions and performances balance historical awareness with bold experimentation, pushing the genre into fresh, uncharted territories. He also collaborates in projects like Ekute Le Trio with Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves and Rich Harpur, blending technical precision with spontaneous creativity.
Rooted in both Germanic and Iberian cultures, Márcio brings a unique perspective to his music, fusing diverse influences into a forward-thinking jazz voice. Whether leading a band or performing with other artists, he continues to shape the sound of modern jazz, honoring its past while boldly redefining its future.
Photo © Martina Knecht
DRUMMER, PERCUSSIONIST, COMPOSER (FRANCE/LAUSANNE)
Samuel Boutros
Born in 1994, Samuel Boutros began studying classical and oriental percussion at age 7 in Paris. In 2008, he switched to drums. Alongside his musical training, he pursued literary studies, specializing in art history and theater in Khâgne, the preparatory classes for the Grandes Écoles in Paris. He earned a Bachelor's in Music and Sound Professions in 2015 and a Master's in Music and Musical Informatics Research in 2017 from the Université Paris-Est Marne-la-Vallée. Passionate about acoustic and electronic sound exploration, he writes electroacoustic pieces for radio and hybrid instruments.
Influenced by Max Roach, Meshuggah, Björk, Xenakis, and Ligeti, Samuel plays in various musical and interdisciplinary ensembles, including the Latin jazz trio Vagalumes alongside Sylvie Kljin and Paul Gonzalez. Since 2020, he has played in the Maghreb rock band El Mizan, which won the 2021 Best Concert Award by La Coquette and performed at the Paléo Festival. Samuel earned Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Jazz Drumming from the Haute École de Musique de Lausanne in 2020 and 2022. In 2023, he co-wrote and performed the show SOï for the Schauspielhaus Zürich.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VOCALIST, COMPOSER (NETHERLANDS/LAUSANNE)
Sylvie Klijn
Sylvie Klijn is a dynamic singer and composer captivating audiences in Switzerland, France and the Netherlands. With master's degrees from Fontys Conservatory and the University of Utrecht, as well as advanced studies in jazz voice and composition from Haute École de Musique Lausanne, her musical expertise is profound. Sylvie embarked on her musical journey as a classical pianist. Transitioning from her classical roots, Sylvie delved into jazz and pop music, seamlessly blending these genres in her compositions.
Her works evoke distant realms through wordless melodies or convey narratives with
subtle influences. A band leader of the Latin jazz trio Vagalumes, alongside Samuel Boutros and Paul Gonzalez, she also collaborates with guitarist José Pino for a sparkling Latin jazz duo performance, and with accordionist Lea Gasser in the duo Oxeon, where they blend classical influences with original compositions. The Oxeon album Somewhere Far (2023) was nominated for the Edison Klassiek award. Sylvie has graced stages at prominent events such as JazzOnze+ and the Cully Jazz Festival, and her music has been showcased on Swiss radio.
Photo © Mathilda Olmi
VIOLINIST, COMPOSER (CUBA/HAVANA)
Liliet Silva
Born in Camagüey, Cuba, in 1998, Liliet Silva Carmenates is a violinist whose artistry bridges classical tradition and contemporary expression. A graduate of Havana’s Universidad de las Artes (ISA), she refined her craft with masters including Diego Fernández González, Aitor Hevia, and Evelio Tieles.
Liliet has performed with renowned ensembles such as Orquesta Solistas de la Habana, Camerata Romeu, and the all-women Alma String Quartet and Cuarteto Kaplan, captivating audiences at festivals
like Jazz Plaza, Habana Clásica, and the Cervantino International Festival. Her career has also taken her on international tours across the USA and Europe, bringing her vibrant sound to global stages.
A sought-after collaborator, she has recorded with Camerata Romeu and worked closely with Leo Brouwer’s Oficina Ediciones Espiral Eterna. Beyond the stage, Liliet is a dedicated educator at Havana’s Escuela Nacional de Música and Escuela de Nivel Elemental Paulita Concepción, inspiring the next generation of musicians with her passion and expertise.
Projects: La casa de nadie Room Sessions
TRUMPETER (SWITZERLAND/LUGANO)
Niccolò Monté Rizzi
Niccolò Monté Rizzi is an up-and-coming trumpet player from Southern Switzerland recognised for his energetic performances with the jazz quintet LOW FiVE alongside Maeva Briacca on vocals, Yannick Veronesi on piano, Chris Smith on electric bass, Francesco Di Tommaso on drums. Founded in 2022, LOW FiVE was born from the synergy of its members, who connected during local
jam sessions through a mutual love for timeless classics. The group is dedicated to delving into the depths of jazz while forging new musical horizons and innovative perspectives. Niccolò's dynamic style and sharp musical intuition have earned him attention in the jazz world, notably at JazzAscona 2023 and 2024, establishing him as a new voice in the contemporary jazz scene.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: La casa de nadie Portrait | Watch Interview
VOCALIST, MULTI-INSTRUMENTALIST, COMPOSER (SWITZERLAND/BASEL)
MISS C-LINE
MISS C-LINE (Carolina Victoria Müller) is a Swiss artist born and raised between Germany and Bern. Drawing on her Belorussian roots and classical upbringing, she has forged a distinctive sound at the crossroads of neo-soul, hip-hop, and jazz. A vocalist, multi-instrumentalist, and producer based in Basel, she creates music that blends groove, depth, and lyrical honesty—inspired by icons like Erykah Badu, Robert Glasper, and Lauryn Hill.
A graduate of the Jazzcampus Basel, where she earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Performance and Production, MISS C-LINE writes, records, and produces most of her own work, embodying a rare artistic independence. Her debut album Surreal (2020) received international acclaim, followed
by her collaborative project MISS C-LINE &
the Rabidz, featuring artists such as Casey Benjamin (USA) and Jay Jules (CH).
Winner of the 2021 New Generation Jazz Lab Contest in St. Moritz, she has performed at major festivals and shared stages with renowned musicians across Europe. We first met MISS C-LINE at JazzAscona 2023, later welcoming her as a special guest at the Zurich Jam Session in 2024 with Lele Gorri—where her magnetic stage presence and fusion of jazz harmonies and hip-hop grooves left a lasting impression.
With unbounded creativity and authenticity, MISS C-LINE continues to blur musical boundaries, shaping her own space in the global soundscape.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | JazzAscona Interview
GUITARIST (ARGENTINA/ZURICH)
Pablo Miguez
Pablo Miguez, or "Pablito" as his friends call him, is a versatile musician, celebrated for his unique blend of genres and rich cultural influences. Born and raised in Argentina and now based in Switzerland, Pablo is skilled in both guitar and percussion. Since the age of 19, he has worked as a freelance musician, performing with various ensembles across cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Buenos Aires, London, Paris, and Zurich. In the Nineties, Pablo performed nearly 200 concerts with Pippo Pollina, including an acclaimed five-concert tour in Italy featuring Charlie Mariano. He has since shared stages and collaborated on numerous projects with distinguished musicians such as Juan Munguia, Dudu Penz, Rodrigo Aravena, Alejandro Panetta, Roberto Pulido, Raylor Oliva, Jorge Enrique Rodríguez Pérez, Raoul de Souza, Cesar Correa, Gary Padmore, Carlos Irarragorri, and David Stauffacher.
As band leader of Tercer Pulso Trio, alongside Aurelio Espinoza on electic bass and Freddy Benitez on drums, Pablo Miguez combines the vibrant energy of Latin rhythms with the freedom of jazz and improvisation.
In addition to his international collaborations and projects, Pablo Miguez is deeply rooted in Zurich’s vibrant jazz community. As a regular contributor to the Zurich Jam Session, he has become a central figure in bringing together musicians from diverse backgrounds, fostering a space where improvisation, cultural exchange, and creative energy flourish. This connection to the local scene complements his international career, underscoring his role as both a global and community-driven artist.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Art Magazine | Read Article
PERCUSSIONIST (COLOMBIA-ECUADOR/ZURICH)
Freddy Benitez
Born in the Colombian border town of Cali and raised between Esmeraldas (Ecuador) and Tumbaco (Colombia), Freddy Benitez is a Zurich-based percussionist whose passion for rhythm is rooted in a lifelong connection to music. Inspired by his father, he developed a love for the timbales at a young age. Lacking formal instruments, he began his musical journey on improvised materials, such as furniture and his own hands. Without the benefit of social media or tutorials, Freddy honed his skills by recording and replicating songs from the radio, cultivating an exceptional musical and rhythmic ear.
Today, he shares his talent and passion through teaching at the Music School of the City of Zurich and leading various workshops. Freddy also finds fulfilment performing in concerts with fellow musicians and composing new rhythms. With a Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Instrumental Music and a Master of Arts in Music Education from the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts, he combines formal training with his rich, hands-on experience to inspire and educate.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
PIANIST (USA/NEW ORLEANS)
Jesse McBride
Jesse McBride is a pianist, bandleader, and educator rooted in the vibrant traditions of New Orleans jazz. A graduate of Houston’s High School for Performing and Visual Arts, he studied alongside artists like Beyoncé and Robert Glasper, and later honed his craft under jazz luminaries including Ellis Marsalis and Harold Battiste.
McBride’s music bridges tradition and innovation, honoring the rich legacy of New Orleans while pushing its boundaries
with a forward-thinking approach. As a professor at Tulane University and a key member of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, he mentors the next generation of jazz musicians.
Leading the Jesse McBride Big Band, he continues to shape the city’s jazz renaissance, blending past and present in performances that resonate locally and internationally.
Photo © José Pino
GUITARIST, COMPOSER (SOUTH AFRICA/WINTERTHUR)
Rich Harpur
Rich Harpur is a versatile guitarist and composer renowned for his versatility across genres such as jazz, funk, pop, country, and world music, he leads his own project, Findling, and frequently collaborates with the talented singer Kisanii. He has been influenced by a wide array of artists, including Led Zeppelin, Prince, Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Kendrick Lamar. An encounter with Qawwali music from Pakistan when he was just 15 years old also left a lasting impact on his musical development. More recently, Rich has been deeply influenced by his studies with Nik Bärtsch and Lionel Loueke, while flamenco guitarists José Manuel León and Diego
del Morao inspired him to abandon the pick and embrace fingerstyle technique.
He took the stage at the Zurich Jam Session in 2004 as part of Ekute Le Trio, performing alongside Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves and Márcio de Sousa. His approach to composition is intuitive, often starting with a groove or chord progression and evolving through experimentation. With a unique mix of musical influences and a passion for nature, Rich brings creativity, precision, and curiosity to his music and teaching, inspiring others to find their own voice on the guitar.
Photo © Martina Knecht
KEYBOARDER, VOCALIST (VENEZUELA/LAUSANNE)
Edgar López
Edgar López is a highly skilled keyboardist, lead vocalist, and a key member of the dynamic Lausanne-based band Nolosé. With a deep passion for Latin music and jazz, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s signature "urban hot and spicy salsa" sound, which blends the harmonic complexity of jazz with the infectious rhythms of salsa. Renowned for their electrifying live shows, Nolosé has become one of Switzerland's most influential Latin music ensembles, performing at top venues such as the Montreux Jazz Festival, Salsa National Bern, JazzAscona, and Les Docks in Lausanne. Over the years, the band has graced the stage more than two hundred times across Switzerland and internationally, earning a reputation as one of the country’s premier Latin music acts.
In addition to their extensive national presence, Nolosé has earned international acclaim, with collaborations alongside Latin jazz legends like Christos Rafalides and Héctor Martignon. Their artistry has been recognized with numerous accolades, including five prestigious awards—among them the Best Foreign Band award at the Havana International Festival in Cuba and Best Composition at the Cali Salsa Festival in Colombia. Under Edgar's leadership, Nolosé has crafted a sound that is both innovative and rooted in tradition, captivating audiences worldwide with their unique fusion of Latin rhythms and jazz harmonies. His contributions to the Latin music scene continue to inspire and elevate the genre, cementing his place as one of Switzerland’s foremost Latin musicians.
Photo © Antero Trujillo
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VIOLIST (CUBA/HAVANA)
Yosmara Castañeda
Yosmara Castañeda Valdés is a Cuban violist whose artistry bridges classical tradition, contemporary repertoire, and international performance. A graduate of Havana’s Instituto Superior de Arte (ISA), she has performed with prestigious ensembles including Camerata Romeu, Orquesta de Cámara de La Habana, Ensemble Cantabile, the Conjunto de Música Antigua Arslonga, and is a founding member of the all-women Alma String Quartet.
Her career has taken her around the world, with tours in Venezuela (PMM Project), China (Amigos del Buena Vista Social Club), the United States (Ars Longa), and Brazil (São Paulo/Havana Orchestra).
She has also appeared at major Cuban festivals, from La Ruta de Mozart to Jazz Plaza and the Festival de Música Contemporánea de La Habana, blending classical finesse with contemporary exploration.
A dedicated educator, Yosmara teaches violin and viola at leading Cuban institutions, including the Escuelas Elementales de Música Alejandro García Caturla and Manuel Saumell, as well as the Conservatorio de Nivel Medio Amadeo Roldán. Whether on stage or in the classroom, she brings her Cuban roots, technical mastery, and passion for musical expression to every performance.
Projects: La casa de nadie Room Sessions
BASSIST, GUITARIST, VOCALIST (PERU/ZURICH)
Aurelio Espinoza
Originally from Peru and now based in Zurich, Aurelio Espinoza Zegarra is a talented bass player, guitarist, and singer. With a professional career that began at 18, he honed his craft at a jazz school in Toulouse, France. His musical style is a vibrant blend of Latin genres—such as Afro-Peruvian rhythms, salsa, and cumbia—with modern influences like pop, funk, hip-hop, reggae, and jazz. In addition to his solo endeavors, Aurelio is a founding member of Tercer Pulso Trio, a dynamic ensemble where his fusion style finds full expression. Joined by Pablo Miguez on guitar and Freddy Benitez on drums, the trio captivates audiences with their energetic performances and fresh takes on both traditional and modern musical landscapes. Aurelio Espinoza teaches electric bass, guitar, ukulele, and music theory at Matchspace Music, sharing his expertise with students of all levels.
GUITARIST (VENUEZUELA/LAUSANNE)
Paul Gonzalez
Paul Alberto Gonzalez Ostos is a passionate and versatile guitarist, born in 1993. From a family of musicians, he was introduced to Venezuelan and South American music at a young age, playing guitar with his parents and sisters. At 11, he began guitar lessons at the Lausanne Conservatory. During his teenage years, he developed a passion for manouche, bop, and various improvisation techniques, building a comprehensive background in classical, jazz, and Latin music. In 2018, he graduated from the Haute École de Musique de Genève. Since then, Paul Gonzalez has performed at various music festivals in Switzerland and abroad and collaborated with renowned musicians and groups across different musical styles and cultures. He has explored numerous other musical genres, particularly jazz, pop, manouche, and Latin American music. Currently based in Lausanne, he performs with the Vagalumes trio—with Sylvie Klijn and Samuel Boutros—and he teaches classical, jazz, and rock guitar at the Ecublens School of Music. Passionate about music education, he strives to inspire his students to discover their own style and musical path.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
CLARINETIST (SWITZERLAND/ZURICH)
Simon Wyrsch
Simon Wyrsch is a versatile clarinetist based in Zurich, Switzerland. He leads his own jazz ensembles and regularly performs with various other groups at clubs, festivals, and concert halls. In addition to his live performances, Simon is also a dedicated orchestral musician and an active participant in studio sessions for film scores and other music projects. He is well-regarded as a clarinetist specialising in jazz, classical, and film music, and also serves as a contractor for studio sessions across all genres. Simon Wyrsch is a faculty member of the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). His diverse musical career, spanning both performance and studio work, has made him a key figure in the Swiss music scene.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
TROMBONIST (VENEZUELA/KÜSNACHT)
Oswaldo García
José Oswaldo Parra García is a multifaceted trombonist and composer, equally at home in improvisation, chamber music, symphonic settings, and solo projects. A graduate of the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK), he brings creativity and precision to every performance, from theatre and film projects to high-profile recordings. In 2022, he made a standout contribution to 500 Miles High with the José Pino Big Band (La casa de nadie Records), highlighting his distinctive voice within the Swiss Latin jazz scene. Oswaldo also serves as lead trombonist for the Swiss Symphonic Wind Orchestra and leads his own Ozzie Trombón Trio, demonstrating his versatility as both performer and bandleader.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Records
GUITARIST, COMPOSER (SWITZERLAND-ITALY/ZURICH)
Alessandro Pittini
Alessandro Pittini, a guitarist with Swiss and Italian roots, studied at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK), specialising in Jazz/Pop under Chris Wiesendanger and Classical Guitar under Markus Hochuli. He has played in various musical formations, including the Bardia Charaf Groupe, Yumi Ito Trio, Yuri Goloubev Trio, Philipp Eden Quintet, and in a duo with Chris Wiesendanger. A passionate lover of Flamenco, Alessandro moved to Madrid in 2017, where he immersed himself deeply in this genre. Since 2018, he has been teaching at the Weinfelden Music School and performing with various bands. He is a co-founder of NUNA, a band blending Latin American, classical, and jazz influences, alongside Oscar Velásquez, Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves, and Freddy Benitez.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session | La casa de nadie Podcast | La casa de nadie Records
BASSIST, COMPOSER, ARRANGER (CHILE-AUSTRALIA/ZURICH)
Rodrigo Aravena
Rodrigo Aravena is a versatile bass player, recording artist, composer, and music teacher. Originally from Santiago de Chile and raised in Melbourne, Australia, he has been based in Switzerland since 2007, where his diverse musical career has flourished. Rodrigo has toured and recorded with a wide variety of artists, including Men At Work, Jenny Morris, Jamie Oehlers, Sam Keevers, Daniel Merriweather, and Julien Wilson. In Switzerland, he has worked with Fai Baba, Steff La Cheffe, Lunik, Lo & Leduc, William White, Dodo, Heidi Happy, Brandy Butler, Evelinn Trouble, Lea Lu, and many more. He has also performed with renowned orchestras such as The Dani Felber Big Band, The Luzern Jazz Orchestra, The Swiss Jazz Orchestra, The Pepe Lienhard Orchestra, and the Zürcher Kammerorchester. With over 200 albums to his name, Rodrigo's compositions, arrangements, and bass playing span genres including jazz, funk, pop, R&B, soul, reggae, Cuban, Brazilian blues, rock, and alternative. A graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts in Melbourne with a BA in Music (Jazz), Rodrigo plays both electric bass and double bass. His work includes live performances and studio sessions with various artists, as well as arranging for small-to-medium horn sections and string ensembles. He also offers remote bass recordings from his own studio and teaches bass and music theory privately. In addition to his session work, Rodrigo leads his own band, The Muscats.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VOCALIST, PERCUSSIONIST (COLOMBIA/ZURICH)
Didier Espinosa
A charismatic lead vocalist and percussionist, Didier Espinosa hails from Cali, Colombia. He studied Theatre Arts at the University of Valle and Industrial Engineering at the Cooperativa de Colombia University. With experience in renowned Colombian orchestras like Orquesta Oro Latino and Escencia Orquesta, Didier skilfully alternates between percussion and vocals. In addition to performing with Tercer Pulso Trio alongside Pablo Miguez and Aurelio Espinoza, he is a key member of Barrio Central, Zurich’s acclaimed salsa band, and the founder and director of Encántigo, a theatre collective active in Zurich, known for its performances in Spanish, accompanied by German subtitles on stage.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VIOLINIST (CUBA/HAVANA)
Camila Crespo
Camila Crespo Ramírez is a Cuban violinist born in Havana in 1997. She holds a degree in Music with a specialization in Violin from the University of the Arts (ISA) in Havana. Camila has participated in orchestral workshops with renowned conductors such as Roland Zollman (Belgium), Hans Graf (Austria), Walter Reiter (UK), and Tomas Hengelbrock (Germany), as well as masterclasses with distinguished chamber music and violin teachers, including Michael Dabroski (USA), the Catalyst String Quartet (USA), Evelio Tieles (Cuba-Spain), and Andreas Neufeld (Germany). She has performed as an instrumentalist in the Ensemble Solistas de La Habana, conducted by Iván Valiente, and with the Orquesta del Lyceum de La Habana, conducted by José Antonio Méndez. Camila Crespo is also a member of the Alma String Quartet, directed by Amaya Justiz, and serves as Concertmaster of the Camerata Romeu under the direction of Zenaida Romeu. As a teacher, she instructs violin at the Guillermo Tomás Conservatory and the Paulita Concepción Conservatory. Camila has collaborated in festivals such as La Ruta de Mozart (2018-2023), Festival Mozart-Habana (2018), and Habana Clásica 2022, and has performed at the 43rd International Festival of New Latin American Cinema. She has also worked with international musicians, including flautist Jona Venturi (Italy), violinists Lissy Abreu (Cuba/Sweden), Brusk Zanganeh (Sweden), and Andreas Neufeld (Russia/Germany). Currently, she is collaborating with the MalPaso Contemporary Dance Company.
Projects: La casa de nadie Room Sessions
TROMBONIST, COMPOSER (PERU/MILAN)
Humberto Amésquita
Born in Lima, Peru, in 1985, Humberto Amésquita is a distinguished trombonist and composer with a diverse career spanning classical, jazz, and Latin music. He studied at the Conservatorio Giuseppe Verdi in Milan, Italy, before attending the International Jazz Master Program at Siena Jazz. He has performed as a soloist in numerous European and American countries, taking part in prestigious jazz festivals. A successful contender in many national jazz solo competitions, Amésquita and has performed and recorded with some of the biggest names in the jazz world, including Eric Reed, Jeremy Pelt, Joe Magnarelli, WDR Big Band, Francesco Cafiso, Gianni Cazzola, Emanuele Cisi, Tiziana Ghiglioni, Flavio Boltro, Enrico Intra, Civica Jazz Band, Torino Jazz Orchestra, Montecarlo Nights Orchestra, Tullio De Piscopo, Franco Cerri, Dino Piana, Antonio Faraò, and Rosario Giuliani. In the field of Latin music, he has worked with various celebrated figures and currently serves as the trombonist and musical director of the renowned salsa orchestras Mercadonegro and ConClave. In 2022, he played a key role in the recording 500 Miles High with the José Pino Big Band, further emphasising his influential and innovative presence in the Latin jazz scene.
Projects: La casa de nadie Records
CLARINETIST, SAXOPHONIST, COMPOSER (COLOMBIA/WINTERTHUR)
Oscar Velásquez
Oscar Velásquez, born in Colombia, began his musical journey at the age of nine with the recorder. By 13, he was already performing regularly with various bands across Colombia and Ecuador. He studied clarinet at the Universidad de Nariño, graduating with honours. Oscar has performend extensively, including as the principal clarinetist of the Puerres Wind Orchestra. He has toured Europe, Asia, and Latin America with groups such as Altiplano de Chile, and contributed to music productions in Colombia, Ecuador, and Norway. Since moving to Switzerland in 2013, he has worked as a freelance musician and educator, earning a CAS in Music Pedagogy and a CAS in Performance from the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). Oscar teaches at the MKZ Music School in Zurich and the MZO Music School in the Zurich Oberland. He is also a co-founder of NUNA, a band blending Latin American, classical, and jazz influences, alongside Alessandro Pittini, Benjamin Kissola Gonçalves, and Freddy Benitez.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
GUITARIST, COMPOSER (FRANCE/ZURICH)
Lazhar Cherouana
Born in Lyon, France, in 1988, Lazhar Cherouana is an award-winning guitarist with a second foothold in Havana, Cuba. He trained at prestigious conservatories in Lyon, Madrid, Salzburg, Klagenfurt, and Vienna, studying with masters such as Eliot Fisk, Marco Tamayo, and Alvaro Pierri, and later completed a master's in classical guitar pedagogy at the Zurich University of the Arts (ZHdK). A prizewinner at international competitions, including Pittaluga, Petrer, and the Segovia Prize, Lazhar has collaborated with renowned artists such as Leo Brouwer, José Miguel Moreno, and Ricardo Gallén. Based in Zurich, he teaches at the Zurich Conservatory Music School (MKZ) and Oklahoma City University and is a member of the Alma String Quintet, as well as performing in a duo with violinist Beatriz Arias Milán.
Projects: La casa de nadie Room Sessions
GUITARIST, COMPOSER, SOUND ENGINEER (SWITZERLAND/WINTERTHUR AND BERLIN)
Beat Keller
Beat Keller is a prominent Swiss musician known for his work in improvised and experimental music. Through his exploration of extended guitar techniques, tunings, and the use of an electric feedbacker guitar, Keller has developed a distinctive musical language. He has performed with leading figures from both the Swiss and international music scenes and regularly tours Europe, the USA, Latin America, Asia, and Southern Africa. As a composer, Keller has earned recognition for projects like Keller’s 10 and the Haiku String Trio, with both receiving critical acclaim. He holds a teaching diploma in jazz guitar and a master of arts in composition. His work has been featured on several renowned labels, and he has received multiple awards and artist residencies, including from Pro Helvetia and the Canton of Zurich.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
PIANIST, COMPOSER (SWITZERLAND/ZUG)
Javier Leutenegger
Javier Marc Leutenegger, born in 1999, is a Swiss jazz pianist with Catalan roots, celebrated for his energetic, swinging style and wide-ranging musical versatility. His performances—whether solo, in small combos, or with big bands—are marked by groove, rhythmic vitality, and melodic clarity that reflect his deep love for jazz. Javier began his musical journey at the age of six with classical piano, laying a strong technical foundation that continues to inform his expressive playing. As his interest in jazz grew, he studied with notable pianists Alessandro d’Episcopo in Zug and Carlos Torijano in Barcelona, eventually pursuing formal jazz piano studies at the Zurich University of the Arts under the guidance of Chris Wiesendanger and Tim Kleinert. Strongly influenced by jazz greats like Bill Evans, Count Basie, Erroll Garner, and Keith Jarret, Javier’s playing is shaped by the infectious pulse of swing, the dynamic movement of stride piano, and melodies that stay with the listener long after the performance ends. At the heart of his musical life is his own jazz trio with Peter Frei and Fredi Schmid, where he explores fresh interpretations of jazz standards and original compositions. Javier is also a sought-after figure in the Swiss jazz scene, performing with ensembles such as the Zurich Jazz Orchestra, the David Regan Big Band, Les Caramels Supersoniques, and the José Pino Trio. He holds a regular residency as a pianist at Hidén Harlequin Jazz Kissa in Zug.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
javierleutenegger.ch
GUITARIST, COMPOSER (ITALY/SOUTH-AFRICA/BASEL)
Alessio Cazzetta
Alessio Cazzetta is a guitarist and composer whose work weaves together elements of jazz, Indian classical, neo-romantic, and rock traditions. Of Italian and South African heritage, his sound is both expansive and intimate—marked by a strong melodic sensibility and a deep commitment to atmosphere. Influences ranging from Coltrane to Hendrix subtly shape a musical voice that feels personal yet far-reaching. Cazzetta has performed at major international festivals including Montreux, Kathmandu, and Cairo Jazz Festivals, and collaborated with artists such as David Binney, Vijay Iyer, Yumi Ito, and Franco Ambrosetti. His recent album, Love, Death & The Eternal Blues is a meditation on suffering, transformation, and the search for meaning. As noted by critic Wolf Kampmann, the album “defies almost any comparison... a universal album for universal spirits.” Based in Basel, Switzerland, Alessio continues to develop his craft through performances and collaborations across Europe and beyond.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
VOCALIST, TRUMPETER, COMPOSER (VENEZUELA/LAUSANNE)
Josué Omaña
Josué Omaña is a distinguished Venezuelan multi-instrumentalist and composer, celebrated for his exceptional versatility and innovative approach to music. A virtuoso on the trumpet, Venezuelan cuatro, guitar, and endowed with a captivating voice, Josué seamlessly blends diverse musical traditions, creating a sound that is both unique and evocative. Drawing from Venezuela's rich musical heritage, Josué's compositions and performances traverse a wide spectrum of genres, including classical, popular, tropical, and jazz. His ability to fuse these styles results in a harmonious and dynamic musical experience that resonates with audiences worldwide. Currently based in Lausanne, Switzerland, Josué continues to captivate audiences with his performances, showcasing his multifaceted talents and deep musical insights.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
PERCUSSIONIST, COMPOSER (SPAIN/BASEL)
Alberto García
Born in Spain and based in Basel, Alberto García stands out for a musical language where tradition, experimentation, and narrative pulse converge. His artistic voice is deeply rooted in South American rhythmic heritage, yet expanded through jazz, contemporary techniques, and years of international collaboration. The result is a sound world both precise and atmospheric—rhythms that unfold with intention, texture, and emotional clarity.
Active on stages across Europe and beyond, Alberto leads projects such as the Alberto García Trío, Rajazz, and Aire Flamenco, and has collaborated with renowned artists including Seamus Blake, Jeff Ballard, Haila, and Alain Pérez. He is also a committed educator, teaching at the Jazzcampus Basel and the Staatliche Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Mannheim.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
PIANIST, ARRANGER (CUBA/ZURICH)
José Braide Leyva Valdés
José “Kosito” Braide Leyva Valdés is a Cuban pianist, arranger, and bandleader whose musical path spans Havana’s vibrant stages and Europe’s contemporary Latin music scene. Born in Holguín, he studied at the Conservatorio José María Ochoa before joining renowned Cuban ensembles such as Bolero Salsa and Salsa Chévere.
Since 2016, he has served as musical director of El Noro y Primera Clase, one of Cuba’s leading orchestras, with extensive tours across Spain, France, Sweden, the Netherlands, Peru, Mexico, and Cuba. His work reflects a deep command of Cuban musical traditions, shaped further through his time with the legendary Orquesta Avilés—the oldest active orchestra in Latin America.
Kosito has collaborated with prominent figures including saxophonist Michel Herrera, maestro Bobby Carcassés, and troubadour Norberto Leyva, contributing to recordings and performances across genres. Now based in Switzerland, he continues to develop projects that bridge Cuban musical heritage with contemporary expression.
Projects: Zurich Jam Session
ELECTRIC & DOUBLE BASS (GREECE/SWITZERLAND)
Dimitris Christopulos
Born in Athens, Greece, Dimitris Christopoulos began his musical journey at twelve on classical guitar, before moving to electric bass at Nakas Jazz School under the guidance of Yotis Kiourtzoglou and studying double bass at Zografou Classical School with Kostas Koubelis.
After graduation, Dimitris quickly established himself in the Greek music scene, performing with local jazz ensembles and acclaimed artists such as Anna Vissi, Sakis Rouvas, and Giannis Spanos. In 2008, he joined the Mercadonegro Orchestra and collaborated with two-time Grammy nominee violinist Alfredo De La Fe.
Now based in Romandie, Dimitris works as a professional studio and live performer, as well as an educator, seamlessly navigating jazz, pop, salsa, and Latin jazz projects. His international collaborations include Tito Nieves, Jerry Rivera, José Alberto “El Canario,” Alex Wilson, Malia, Pee Wee Ellis, Matt Bianco, and many more, bringing his distinctive rhythmic pulse and harmonic depth to every stage and recording.
Photo © Martina Knecht
Projects: Zurich Jam Session