(NEWARK, NJ) – World-renowned Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista leads the CHAMA Ensemble at NJPAC's Horizon Sounds of the City on Thursday, July 11, 2024 at Chambers Plaza (1 Center Street) in Newark, NJ – Experience an evening of cultural rhythms. Show starts at 5:00 p.m. This is a free outdoor concert.

Cyro Baptista (from Montclair, NJ) will delight the audience; Baptista's performance is known for its innovative sounds and rousing rhythms and promises to be an unforgettable evening of world music and jazz fusion.

He has carved a niche for himself in contemporary jazz, experimental and world music, covering a wide range of styles. His collaborations with artists such as Herbie Hancock, Paul Simon, Yo-Yo Ma, John Zorn, Wynton Marsalis and Brazilian legends Milton Nascimento and Caetano Veloso have cemented his reputation as one of the world's leading percussionists. In his latest project CHAMA, released on the Ropeadope label, Baptista showcases his visionary approach to music. Listeners are taken on a vivid journey through mythical cities full of exciting stories and colorful characters. Experience the magic of CHAMA life and immerse yourself in a night of rhythmic excitement, cultural diversity and joyful music.

Baptista's CHAMA Band is led by a strong ensemble of talented musicians, including Zé Luis Oliveira on saxophone and flute, Felipe Hostins on accordion, Tim Keiper on drums, and Jason Fraticelli on bass and cuatro. Through their rhythmic complexity and dynamic performances, they create a dynamic and culturally rich musical experience.

The NJPAC concert will feature special guests promoting unity, cultural exchange and empowerment of local artists. FORRÓ CHAMA will feature David Vieira and Mauro Refosco, members of Forró in the Dark and & American Utopia; by David Byrne. PAGODE CHAMA will feature Helder Celso, Kauê Alves, Junior Karegato and Renatinhu from Newark's vibrant music scene, who will add a unique flair to the performance. The event will also include a lively dance party with Sabrina Evangelista & Gustavo Nunes, Sabina Ciari and Dora Flor of BLOCO FROM THE BLOCK.

New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC)located at One Center Street in downtown Newark, NJ, is America's most diverse performing arts center and the artistic, cultural, educational and civic center of New Jersey – where great performances and events enrich and transform lives every day. NJPAC brings diverse communities together, provides access for all and showcases the state's and the world's finest artists, while serving as a leading catalyst in the revitalization of its hometown. Through its extensive arts education programs that have reached nearly 2 million children, NJPAC is shaping the next generation of artists and art lovers. NJPAC has attracted more than 10 million visitors since its opening in 1997 and cultivates meaningful and lasting relationships with each of its members.