“To the extent that we continue supporting and promoting this event, we will be making sure that we are producing the vaccine that could severely break the vicious cycle of poverty, since the spiritual wealth that music plants in our hearts is multiplied over the years,” said Pérez. Thus, for a week, the 2013 Panama Jazz Festival will offer three grand evening concerts at the Anayansi Theater in the Atlapa Convention Center and five evening performances at the City of Knowledge Convention Center.

Big name performers 

The Panamanian musician, also known as "Cholo", had an entertaining way of introducing the American musicians Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter, whom he recognized as his “superheroes” and said that “they understand music as being a tool for change”, acknowledging that their music has transcended borders. He also introduced the Panamanian singer-songwriter Rubén Blades, who will put on the final concert on January 19, in the central quadrangle of the City of Knowledge. Blades will perform the song "Patria", considered a second national anthem in Panama.

Blades commented that he is currently working on wrapping up two albums, one dedicated to tango, and that he hopes 2013 won't be quite so busy, mainly going on tour. He mentioned that in April he may travel to Istanbul to fulfill certain commitments, and will be accompanied by the U.S. saxophonist and composer Wayne Shorter.