Seré Libre, the new album from acclaimed Venezuelan-Canadian artist Eliana Cuevas, is a stunning creation with the Angel Falls Orchestra, named after the world’s tallest waterfall, located in Auyán-tepui, Canaima National Park, Venezuela. “I created this orchestra, as it was the one missing piece to realize my dream of fusing the incredibly rich traditions of Venezuelan folk rhythms and classical music.”

The album explores loss, the deaths of Cuevas’ father and grandfather, her mission to continue the centuries old folk music traditions they taught her, and dreams for a better future in Venezuela. Cuevas’ homeland is a nation that is home to some of the richest folk music in the Americas, but has tragically also seen devastating poverty, hunger, and political crises in recent decades.

“We also wanted to make a point of choosing songs that accentuate Afro-Venezuelan rhythms,” explains award-winning arranger, producer, conductor Jeremy Ledbetter. “To combine those with the European classical format has allowed Eliana to share with the world the cultural richness of her country.”

The Ostara Project embodies hope and growth by showcasing the strength and creativity of Canadian women in jazz. Ostara artists are all top-tier musicians, composers, and bandleaders who reflect the geographical, cultural, and creative diversity of Canada’s musical landscape. Led by award-winning jazz musicians Jodi Proznick and Amanda Tosoff, the Ostara Project includes Rachel Therrien, Allison Au, and Valérie Lacombe, and will feature guest vocalists Kim Zombik and Shruti Ramani. Individually, they are outstanding artists: collectively, they are a force.

In a genre and industry where women are severely underrepresented, the Ostara Project is a powerful example of perseverance, community, and creativity. New growth rising, stretching to claim space, propelled by joy.