M. Alex Ramirez feat. Arturo O'Farrill - Recording Release
M. Alex Ramírez presents a recording-release performance at Blues Alley, featuring acclaimed pianist and composer Arturo O’Farrill. The Colombian-born saxophonist, composer, and producer is known for music that connects Afro-Colombian heritage, jazz tradition, and an expansive interest in science and astronomy.
Ramírez’s latest major project is “Nebulesque,” a chordless trio album that transforms phenomena such as solar eruptions and black holes into an exploration of space, time, and human feeling. His musical background includes study at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, Berklee College of Music, and NYU Steinhardt, as well as performances with artists including Terrence Blanchard, Paquito D’Rivera, Bill Frisell, Gary Burton, Chris Potter, Alex Sipiagin, Ben Wendel, Melissa Aldana, and Arturo O’Farrill. He is also a regular collaborator with the Afro-Colombian group Grupo Rebolú, performing on saxophone, backing vocals, and guacharaca. The program is co-presented with the Embassy of Colombia.
When: Monday, October 5, 2026
Showtime: 7:00 PM
Venue: Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20007
Tickets: $25, plus a $7 fee
Featured artists: M. Alex Ramírez and Arturo O’Farrill
Background: Ramírez immigrated to the United States as a child after his father accepted a position with NASA. He began studying piano at age four before taking up saxophone, and his fascination with music and astronomy continues to shape his artistic work.
Career highlights: Ramírez has performed with the Berklee Concert Jazz Orchestra, toured throughout New England, received the Barney Josephson Outstanding Graduate Jazz Studies Award, and placed third in the Carinthian International Jazz Award. His work with Grupo Rebolú has included appearances at major cultural institutions and a featured NPR Tiny Desk x globalFEST performance.
Food and beverage minimum: A $15 minimum per person applies and is not included in the ticket price.
Seating: Seating is first come, first served at the door. The page lists doors opening at 6:00 PM for the first Monday-through-Saturday performance.
Ticket policy: Tickets are final sale, nonrefundable, and nontransferable.
House rules: Photography and recording are prohibited during the performance, and patrons are asked to keep conversation to a minimum.
Run time: Not specified.
Age guidance: Not specified.
Accessibility: Not specified.