Berta Moreno is a multi-awarded jazz saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and educator from Spain based in New York City. She has captured the eye of the audience and grabbed the attention of the US and European press. Critics have defined her as "Driven and Determined" (Downbeat Magazine,) "a storyteller" (WBGO) and "a highly thoughtful and precise soloist, with well-planned statements that don't waste any notes" (All About Jazz.)

And she’s a resident of The Heights!

More at www.bertamoreno.com

2026 Winner:

Berta’s commissioned piece, “La Troupe - Nomadic Crossroads,” will be presented at the 9th Annual Washington Heights Jazz Festival, November 7, 2026!

“La Troupe-Nomadic Crossroads” is a collection of original and eclectic songs that blend contemporary jazz, flamenco, Afro-Latin rhythms, and hip-hop. The pieces are interconnected, guiding the listener through a storyline that explores concepts of identity, belonging, and the struggle of being oneself in a world that fears and rejects those who are "different."

Inspiration: This project relates to me in a very personal way. It is inspired by my life experience as an immigrant moving through different places. It reflects on topics like finding home “away from home”, finding “your troupe”; Who are you when you belong nowhere or everywhere? and also speaks to the struggle of being oneself in a world that seems to f ear honesty and vulnerability. The songs are heavy on storytelling and are meant to connect with a wide audience. I am sure this project will be relevant for the culturally diverse audience of Washington Heights, where immigrants from all over the world have learnt to live with each other, building “their troupe” and finding a balance of keeping their culture alive while being open to their neighbors’

Instrumentation: voice, tenor sax, vibraphone, piano, bass, drums, percussion.