The Autana Trio is a Valencia-based instrumental ensemble that blends the rich musical traditions of Brazil, Venezuela, and Colombia. Since forming in 2022, the group has blended Latin American folklore with jazz-inspired improvisation to create a vibrant, contemporary take on world music.
Consisting of Rafinha Barros (Brazil) on bandolim and cavaquinho, Marcel Montcourt (Venezuela) on Venezuelan fourú, and Ricardo Osorno (Colombia) on electric bass, the trio seamlessly blends acoustic and electric textures. Their interplay reveals deep technical skill and a shared vision to build bridges between cultures through music.
The trio's name, Autana, comes from Cerro Autana, a sacred mountain in Venezuela's Amazonas region that is visible from all three of their countries of origin. In the Piaroa language, "Autana" means "Tree of Life," symbolizing the trio’s spiritual connection to nature, cultural diversity, and instrumental expression. This poetic vision informs their identity and sound.
Musically, the Autana Trio draws on Latin American folk traditions, infusing them with jazz harmonies, syncopated rhythms, and innovative arrangements. Their performances exude energy and elegance with a global sensibility that transcends genres.
Highlights of their recent performances include the Matisse Club in Valencia and the 2024 Polisònic Festival in Gandia, Spain. There, they were praised for their dynamic interpretations of Latin American roots music.
The Autana Trio stands out in Spain’s contemporary music scene as a sophisticated voice for cross-cultural collaboration, offering a sound that is both deeply rooted and exploratory.
