The inspiration for Quinteto Panamericano came from the music of Antonio Carlos Jobim, which has long fascinated me.  His Nova Banda of the 1990s featured flute, cello, voices and rhythm section.  I wanted to create a smaller, more intimate version of this group that would devote itself to the music of North, Central and South America, offering creative arrangements of a diverse repertoire with a jazz emphasis.  I sought to involve younger musicians and was fortunate in finding them while teaching various classes and ensembles at the Chicago College of Performing Arts/Roosevelt University.  These talented former students are now working professionals in the Chicago area and I am honored and privileged to be collaborating with them at the beginning of their careers.  An unintended but welcome byproduct is that we have gathered a group that looks like America in the 21st century, reflecting the wonderful diversity of the Western Hemisphere.