Sonidos Gitanos by Maria Bermudez Flamenco at New Orleans Chateau Flamenco Festival 2025

The third annual “Chateau Flamenco Festival” presents “Sonidos gitanos (Gypsy Sounds)” from Jerez to New Orleans by Maria Bermudez.

Sonidos Gitanos, curated by flamenco artist María Bermúdez showcases some of the most well-known flamenco artists from Jerez de la Frontera, the birthplace of flamenco in Andalusia, Spain. This event brings together world-class performers for an evening of authentic music and dance. The featured artists will highlight the depth of flamenco’s traditions, offering a unique experience that spans generations of visual and musical artistry. The performance lineup includes:

Maria Bermudez

Maria “La Chacha” Bermudez is a dancer, choreographer, and mentor. During her three decade international career she has exposed audiences across the world to the unique style and sound of Jerez de la Frontera, Spain — recognized as the birthplace of Flamenco. The world-renowned artist leads her Spain based company, Sonidos Gitanos. She is the artistic director of Flamenco! Santa Barbara and works in partnership with Timo Nunez Arte Flamenco, an inclusive, thriving dance studio in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara.

Jesús Méndez

Jesús Méndez, the guest artist, is a member of the renowned flamenco family “Los Méndez” and relative of La Paquera de Jerez, has become a well-known voice in contemporary flamenco. He began his career at 17, debuting in 2002 at the Flamenco Cultural Association D. Antonio Chacón in Jerez. Méndez has collaborated with leading artists such as Moraito Chico, Rocío Molina, Gerardo Núñez, and Carmen Cortés. He has performed internationally across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas. His second release, Añoranza (2012), premiered at the Flamenco Biennial in Seville and received widespread acclaim.

Manuel Valencia

Manuel Valencia is a flamenco guitarist from Jerez de la Frontera, and a member of a famous flamenco family —grandnephew of “Terremoto de Jerez,” nephew of Fernando Terremoto, and son of palmero Diego Valencia “Tío Cabero.” Recognized as a leading figure in the new generation of Jerez guitarists, he began performing professionally at a young age, earning accolades at competitions such as the International Guitar Contest of Peña Los Cernícalos and the Cristina Heeren Foundation’s accompaniment contest. He received the “Venencia Flamenca al Toque” (2014) and the “Giraldillo Revelación” at the Bienal de Flamenco de Sevilla.

Fernando Jiménez

Fernando Jiménez is a flamenco dancer, born in the heart of Santiago, one of Jerez de la Frontera’s most iconic flamenco neighborhoods. He carries flamenco in his blood. A direct descendant of the legendary cantaora Tía Anica “La Piriñaca” and related to José Vargas “El Mono,” his roots run deep in the tradition of gypsy flamenco.

Ana de los Reyes

Ana de los Reyes is a flamenco singer, born in Jerez de la Frontera, comes from a family of established flamenco artists, including her brother Pelé de los Reyes of Navajita Plateá and singers Chiqui de Jerez and Coral de los Reyes. Her professional experience includes work with Joaquín Cortés, Japan’s Arte y Solera dance company, and international tours with María Bermúdez’s Sonidos Gitanos. She has participated in various flamenco recordings, such as Nanas Flamencas, Duende y Compás, and Soul y Pasión Gitana.

Miguel Rosendo

Miguel Rosendo is a flamenco singer, born into the rich flamenco tradition of Cádiz. He began his career in the heart of the art form—singing in peñas like La Perla, Juanito Villar, and Enrique El Mellizo. It was in these community-rooted venues that he developed his voice within cante jondo.

Bernardo Parrilla

Bernardo Parrilla is a renowned flamenco violinist known for his extensive contributions to both traditional and contemporary flamenco music. He has appeared in films such as Joaquín Cortés’ Gitano and in multiple flamenco productions directed by Carlos Saura. His international touring credits include performances with Tomatito, Joaquín Cortés, and the group Ketama. He is also a member of Alburejo, a trio formed with his brothers Juan (flute) and Manuel (guitar), which explores both traditional flamenco and fusion-based compositions.