Spanish Harlem Orchestra to Perform Free Concert at Miller Outdoor Theatre

Society for the Performing Arts (SPA), bringing the world's best to Houston, presents Ritmo Latino! - a performance by Spanish Harlem Orchestra, the GRAMMY Award-winning Ambassadors of New York's classic salsa, Friday, May 3, at sundown at Miller Outdoor Theatre. This event is FREE and open to the public.

New York style and sophistication meet Afro-Caribbean rhythm and passion with the Spanish Harlem Orchestra-the musical embodiment of the steamy, culturally rich neighborhood of Spanish Harlem.

Since this group came together in 2000, Spanish Harlem Orchestra has been at the forefront of maintaining the energy, creativity and spirit of true New York salsa - a fusion of Caribbean rhythms and big-band sound that blared out of Big Apple barrios in the 1970s. Directed by world-renowned pianist, arranger and producer Oscar Hernández, the 13-member ensemble has re-introduced this sound to music lovers worldwide.

"Our music style is the original sound of New York old school 'Salsa dura' (heavy salsa) that was played in the early years by our pioneers," says Hernandez. "That sound has been lost and we want to keep it alive while educating the new generations (and music lovers in general) on the true musical roots of our culture." He adds, "We've brought back the essence of what makes this music great and are keeping the salsa spirit alive in our recordings and shows."

Spanish Harlem Orchestra has four albums to date, including the GRAMMY award-winning Viva la Tradicón (2010), a stunning follow-up to their 2007 GRAMMY nominated United We Swing; GRAMMY award-winning album Across 110th St. (2004);and its 2002 debut, Un Gran Día En El Barrio.

This performance is sponsored in part by the City of Houston through the Miller Theatre Advisory Board, as well as Reliant, United, H-E-B and BMC Software.

This is a FREE event for the community. For more information visit www.spahouston.org or call 713-227-4772. Tickets for seats at Miller Outdoor Theatre are available on a first come, first serve basis and can be picked up at Miller Outdoor Theatre's ticket office (100 Concert Drive) on the day of the show from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and from 7-7:55 p.m. No tickets are needed for lawn seating.

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