This past weekend, CEDE ARUBA hosted the highly anticipated “Vibracion Cultural” event at the Centro di bario Noord, featuring eight incredible performances over two nights.

Friday kicked off with a bang as Sendi Loefstop together with her band made her debut as a solo artist, followed by BandiLama who set a fantastic mood. The night’s surprise came from Activemirror with their energetic alternative rock sound, and Jralp closed out the evening with his captivating Afro-Caribbean rhythms.

Saturday’s performances began with Jeanoir Goeloe bringing his urban music to the stage. Next up were Fellow and Lightskin Rasta, delivering their fresh urban beats. The legendary Ataniro then captivated the audience with a tremendous show. The event concluded with Suhcy together with Casper with their energetic Soca and Crioyo music, leaving everyone on a high note.

All the talented artists showcased were a result of the Music Hub project, led by project leader Michael Lampe. A special thank you goes out to ATA an CEDE ARUBA for their valuable contribution to this successful project.

Sendy Loefstop, a new artist, is set to release her new single, “Home,” on June 13, 2025. The song is a heartfelt reflection on her childhood and family, conveying the message, “No matter what happens in life, family remains my home.”

The track was produced by Ivan Quandus in collaboration with Venezuelan producer Mikidrums.

Fans can anticipate the launch of her mini-album, which will be available on all streaming services this coming Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Last night, the Bibioteca nacional di Aruba hosted the premiere of a short documentary featuring legendary Aruban percussionist, Mr. Herbert “Ebby” Peterson. Ebby is well-known in Aruba; for decades, he has performed with various musical groups, including Padu del Caribe and Rufo Wever. The documentary highlights his musical journey and his encounters with many international musicians. This film was presented by Ivan Quandus, a renowned musician himself, who recognizes the importance of documenting the history of Aruban musicians and artists.

“Ban topa cu nos cahanan” (Let’s meet with our music boxes) culminated in a lively party around the Papiamento restaurant’s pool, starting at 2:00 PM and continuing until 8:30 PM.

A total of 15 “Caha di orgel” (traditional Aruban cylinder pianos, also known as “Tingilingi boxes”) were featured, each getting a chance to play two sets of three songs. A festive atmosphere reigned from the beginning of the afternoon, during which a tribute was also paid to Mr. Julio “Djul” Reigina, who celebrated his 90th birthday.

The afternoon also included an exhibition of a future model of Aruba’s Tingilingi box. It can be looked back on as a successful celebration.

This past Saturday, Cafe 080 treated its guests to an incredible night of music, featuring the sensational band Skale. The group truly captivated the audience, transporting them back to the 80s, 90s, and 2000s with a fantastic mix of American and Latin Pop.

The energy was electric, and when the night ended, the crowd was left wanting more! The owner of Cafe 080 heard the demand and has promised a return engagement for Skale in June, specifically on a Wednesday.

Stay tuned for the exact date! You won’t want to miss Skale’s next performance.

Oranjestad, Aruba – May 30, 2025 saw the start of Aruba’s Caha di Orgel celebration. The party was at the Hooiberg Store, with guests from Curaçao joining in.

These guests added a lot to the evening. They joined local Caha di Orgel dancers and musicians, making it a truly special event. The celebration showcased the rich culture of the Caha di Orgel, setting a fun mood for the long weekend.

Last night, in a completely packed small hall of Cas di cultura, the concert of Vernonn Chatlein took place together with Lidrick Solognier, Randal Corsen, Reno Steba, and special guests Serghio Jansen and Arthur Kelly. The evening featured a high-caliber repertoire of traditional Antillean and Aruban rhythms infused with Jazz harmonies. At the end of the performance, the audience gave a standing ovation, and the group delighted them with an encore, playing the classic “Dalia.”

Yesterday, April 30th, 2025, marked the 20th edition of the Carlos Bislip Jazz Expo 2025, an evening brimming with jazz music and a vibrant atmosphere. The night unfolded with performances from four distinct bands, each showcasing their unique style.

The expo started with Caribbean Combo, an ensemble of talented young musicians from the Rufo Wever Music School. They were joined by three distinguished guest stars: Roderick Albus on trumpet, Anthony Lubers on saxophone, and Freddie Franken on guitar.

The second act featured a dynamic Quartet comprising Pierre Koolman on drums, Johnny Scharbaay on piano, Freddie Franken on guitar, and Ivan Quandus on bass. Quandus also served as the musical director for the five vocalists who graced the stage during this performance: Soraine Leonard, Reanne Ras, Tabitha Smith Heemstad, Solaica Clarinda, and Osdely LaCroes. Together, they delivered a diverse setlist encompassing Bossanova, swing, funk, and Antillean music infused with jazz elements.

The third band to take the stage was Lidrick Solognier, who presented a compelling fusion of Tambu music with complex harmonies and a touch of vocals. The talented musicians accompanying him were Reno Steba on bass, Serghio Jansen on guitar, Kyle Winklaar on piano, Lidrick Solognier himself on Tambu, Arthur Kelly on wiri, and the group’s vocalist, Pearl Dumfries.

Closing the spectacular evening was Carlos Bislip & friends. This ensemble featured Carlos Bislip on drums and timbales, Chris Rodulfo on congas and minor percussion, John Francis Jacobs on minor percussion, the esteemed guest artist Dr. Jammaal Baptiste on piano, Ivan Quandus on bass, Franklin Granadillo on trumpet, and Angelo Kock on pan and accordion. Their performance offered a delightful array of tropical music, including new compositions by Carlos Bislip.

A significant highlight of the night was the special recognition bestowed upon Dr. Jamaal Baptiste by Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister Gerlien Croes. Dr. Baptiste, a musician who has achieved a PhD in music, was honored for his remarkable accomplishment. In his address, Prime Minister Eman expressed his gratitude, noting that Dr. Baptiste’s journey serves as an inspiring example for future generations. Minister Croes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Dr. Baptiste’s story should motivate aspiring musicians and encourage greater support for their musical studies.

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