Introduction and Overview
The renowned jazz artist, composer, conductor, and educator Sam Eastmond is preparing for his first-ever visit to Mexico. As part of the United Kingdom’s delegation, invited as the Guest of Honor at the 53rd International Cervantino Festival (FIC), Eastmond and his contemporary ensemble will perform a selection of pieces by the acclaimed and eclectic composer John Zorn. The concert, titled “Bagatelles of John Zorn,” will take place on the Explanada de la Alhóndiga de Granaditas, following the festival’s opening on October 10.
Sam Eastmond and the Bagatelles
John Zorn, a composer, arranger, director, and saxophonist who defies categorization, has created an extensive collection of works known as the “Bagatelles.” Eastmond and his band have chosen eight pieces from this collection for their performance, which has evolved through practice. Eastmond explains, “Each of Zorn’s three-line melodies could be a complete score, symphony, or album.”
The Nature of Jazz Performances
Eastmond emphasizes the improvisational nature of jazz, stating that each performance is unique. He says, “We all improvise in my band, exploring versions that only we can create. Every minute is different from the previous one, and no two seconds of music are alike in consecutive performances.”
Upcoming Performances
- FIC Concert: Sam Eastmond and Bagatelles of John Zorn
- Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
- Location: Explanada de la Alhóndiga de Granaditas, Guanajuato
- Time: 8:00 PM
Circuito Cervantino Event
- Location: Plaza General Emiliano Zapata, Cuernavaca, Morelos
- Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM
About the 53rd International Cervantino Festival
The 53rd International Cervantino Festival will take place from October 10 to 26, 2025, in Guanajuato City and various Cervantino circuits. The United Kingdom is the Guest of Honor, and Veracruz is the State Guest of Honor. More details can be found at https://festivalcervantino.gob.mx/actividad/1256/bagatelles-de-john-zorn.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is John Zorn and what are his Bagatelles? John Zorn is a composer, arranger, director, and saxophonist known for his eclectic style. His “Bagatelles” is a vast collection of compositions, from which Sam Eastmond has chosen eight pieces for his performance.
- What makes Sam Eastmond’s performances unique? Eastmond emphasizes the improvisational nature of jazz, ensuring that each performance is distinct from the last.
- When and where can I see Sam Eastmond’s performance? Sam Eastmond will perform on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 8:00 PM on the Explanada de la Alhóndiga de Granaditas in Guanajuato. He will also perform on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Cuernavaca, Morelos.
