PABLO SANHUEZA
Latin Honor
Honors Awards 2026
May 24 | Gem Theater | Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District
Preserving Rhythm. Expanding Culture.
The 18th & Vine Arts Festival Foundation is proud to honor Pablo Sanhueza as the 2026 Latin Honor recipient — recognizing his decades of leadership in Latin jazz, cultural preservation, and music education in Kansas City.
Born in Santiago, Chile, Pablo Sanhueza has become one of the Midwest’s most influential Latin jazz percussionists, bandleaders, and cultural educators. His work ensures that Afro-Latin and Caribbean musical traditions remain vibrant and deeply rooted within Kansas City’s evolving arts landscape.
A Cultural Anchor in Kansas City
As founder and leader of the Kansas City Latin Jazz Orchestra, Pablo has built an ensemble celebrated for its dynamic fusion of Afro-Latin rhythm and jazz improvisation.
His mastery of congas, bata, and Afro-Caribbean percussion has led to performances with Grammy-winning artists and international jazz legends across the United States, Latin America, and Europe.
But beyond the stage, Pablo has dedicated his career to mentorship and access. Through partnerships with schools, youth programs, and arts organizations, he has expanded opportunities for young musicians to study Latin jazz — not just as music, but as cultural heritage.
Through his Latin Jazz Institute, he continues building pipelines for emerging artists to learn the historical and spiritual foundations of the music.
A Recognized Tradition Bearer
n 2025, Pablo was named a Missouri Folk Arts “Living Traditions” Fellow — a major statewide recognition honoring his decades of work preserving traditional Afro-Latin music in Missouri.
His continued performances at iconic venues such as the Blue Room and the American Jazz Museum reflect his deep connection to the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District.
He represents not only musical excellence, but cultural stewardship.
Why This Honor Matters
The Honors Awards recognizes artists who protect and extend the legacy of their traditions.
Pablo Sanhueza ensures that Latin jazz is not a side note in Kansas City’s story — it is part of the foundation.
Honoring him at the Gem Theater within the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District affirms that Kansas City’s cultural identity is global, interconnected, and rhythmically diverse.
What to Expect on May 24
At Honors Awards 2026, Pablo Sanhueza will be celebrated through:
• A live Latin tribute performance
• A curated recognition of his cultural leadership
• An official City Proclamation
• A formal Latin Honor presentation
This is a high-energy, tightly curated evening honoring impact across genres and generations.
🌹 Join Us May 24
Be part of a night that honors the sound of Kansas City.
📍 Gem Theater
Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District
🗓 May 24, 2026
🎟 Be Part of the Celebration
Celebrate global rhythm.
Honor cultural preservation.
Support living tradition.
Give flowers — while they can still be received.