It's been a long time since my last blog post! I am enjoying my first sabbatical from my work as Associate Professor of Music and Director of Jazz Studies at Pacific Lutheran University, and I will have some exciting projects to share with you throughout this Fall semester.

But this is a very special occasion: I have just received a Latin Grammy nomination in the category Best Arrangement for my album Vida - the album that many of you supported last year. The track “Flight 962” is the selected arrangement. If you follow my blog, you understand the significance of this particular composition in my journey, and how meaningful it is to receive this important recognition for a work that celebrates a new life, filled with opportunities and hope. 

I confess that I didn't expect a nomination. Not that I don't believe in the quality of the work, but as an independent musician without the backing of a record label or a promotion team in such a competitive process, I thought it was very unlikely to happen. Well, sometimes it feels good to be wrong! I am extremely grateful to the members of the Latin Recording Academy for their vote. 

The ceremony will take place on November 13 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. and I will be there enjoying the fun, while gathering some stories to share with you on this blog. 

As always, thank you for everything you do to support my work!

Love to all,

-Cassio