Cuban Salsa group Orquesta Charangoa will share its version of traditional Charanga music when it performs on 61传媒’s Bowling Green, Friday, April 24, 5:30-7:00 p.m., as part of the popular Levitt on the Lawn Concert Series. The concert is free and open to the public.
How does a flutist/composer, in his 80s, living in Havana, start an orchestra in L.A. devoted to playing his music? The story starts when Fay Roberts traveled to Cuba to study flute with the legendary Richard Egues, of Orquesta Aragon fame. Richard, an innovative virtuoso of the Cuban flute style, is also the composer of Cuba’s most popular cha cha cha, El Bodeguero. Richard sent Fay home with enough music and inspiration to start a new Cuban Charanga Orquesta, guiding the creation of L.A.’s most authentic Cuban dance group, Orquesta Charangoa.
Since 1997, Charangoa has performed in L.A.’s top venues, including the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, the Palladium, the Palace, and the Conga Room. Charangoa has opened for Cuba’s most famous band, Los Van Van, and has backed Israel Lopez Cachao. Television appearances include KCET’s Holiday Celebration, and KTTVs Good Day L.A. Charangoa has also performed in many festivals, including the Watts Towers Jazz Festival, L.A. Cuban Festival, African Marketplace, and the L.A. Salsa Festival.
Levitt on the Lawn at 61传媒is an offshoot of the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Pasadena and MacArthur Park. 61传媒 alumna Elizabeth Levitt Hirsch ’74 sponsors the 61传媒concert series to give back to the 61传媒community and increase awareness of the summer concerts at the Levitt Pavilions.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic supper, or may purchase dinner for $8.For more information, contact the Malott Commons office at (909) 607-9372.