In its 35th anniversary year, the Telluride Jazz Celebration has announced that Paquito D’Rivera will be their Guest of Honor for the 2011.

Born in Cuba in 1948, multi-instrumentalist D’Rivera joined the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba at just 6-years of age. Just a year later, he became the youngest artist ever to endorse a musical instrument by signing a deal with instrument manufacturer, Selmer.

From that start many years ago, D’Rivera went on to become a critically acclaimed composer and musician, and one of the pioneers of what would later become known as ‘Latin Jazz’. Having won 10 Grammy awards in a career that spans over 50 years, D’Rivera is a true legend of Latin, Jazz, Funk, Classical, and countless other genres.

As the Guest of Honor, D’Rivera will have be performing with several other artists during the celebration, including Edmar Castaneda and the Alex Brown Quartet.

One of the main highlights of the 3 day celebration, which begins on August 5th, will be the on-stage collaboration between two powerhouses of Jazz – Rita Coolidge and Allen Toussaint. Coolidge has been described as having “the sexiest voice in the world”, while Toussaint is one of America’s most covered artists, having written classics such as ‘Working in the Coalmine’ and ‘Everything I Do Gonna Be Funky’.

Other notable acts at the celebration include Tower of Power, The Bad Plus, and The Clayton Brothers.

Surrounded by 14,000ft mountain peaks, Telluride, Colorado is known for its varied outdoor activities and breathtaking views. Alongside the musical events, the Celebration will also feature complimentary guided hikes, yoga, and wine-tasting for all attendees.