Latin Beat Magazine: Que pasa en Los Angeles

Bandleader/trumpeter Gabriel Rosati gave an Afro-Cuban, Caribbean and Brazilian rhythms workshop at Cal State University of Los Angeles on April 18 covering "a professional perspective of history, techniques and nomenclature for all instruments" and presenting his specific instructional books on trumpet playing, including "Latin American Trumpet Music," "The Salsa Trumpet," and "Brazilian Modern Rhythms," among others.

On Sunday, May 1st of this year, Albert Torres Productions held the 1st Annual Cuban Music Festival at the Edward Vincent Jr. Park Amphitheater in Inglewood. The all-day event honored the late Mario Grillo "Machito" (The King of Cuban Music), with performances by The Machito Orchestra (directed by Mario Grillo, Jr.) directly from New York City and featuring the vocal talents of Hermán Olivera. Also from New York City, the legendary Orquesta Broadway led by Eddy Zervigón performed on the West Coast for the first time in over 20 years.

The number one Cuban group from Texas, Havana NRG, also took the stage with a powerful performance of more contemporary Cuban music. Representing Los Angeles was the Cuban timba band Bayalo, plus the music of DJs Super Robby and DJ Saoco. The moderate crowd and mostly familial atmosphere enjoyed a beautiful California sunny day full of excellent Cuban rhythms.

On the evening of May 1st, the nightclub Mama Juana in Studio City celebrated their 2nd anniversary. The special celebration featured live entertainment under the musical guidance of bassist René Camacho and trombonist Francisco Torres. An all-star cast of players and singers performed throughout the night, including Johnny Polanco, Artie Webb, Sal Cracchiolo, Joey de León, Fausto Cuevas, George Ortiz, Joe Rotondi, Chino Espinoza, Yari Moré, Alfred Ortiz and Juliana Muñoz. Mama Juana owner Darrell de la Torre and club manager Carla were the perfect hosts. Congratulations to Mama Juana and its staff.

Salsa Thursday Nights at the Florentine Gardens in Hollywood opened on May 5 with a special record release party for Chino Espinoza y Los Dueños del Son combined with a Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Upcoming events in the area that you must check out include:

First Annual Puerto Rican Music Festival on Sunday, June 5 at the Hollywood Park Casino grounds. Headlining the event will be Papo Lucca & La Sonora Ponceña directly from Puerto Rico; from New York City, the popular ensemble Son Boricua (featuring José Mangual Jr. and Jimmy Sabater); and representing Los Angeles will be Johnny Polanco y Su Conjunto Amistad. Spinning salsa all day long will be DJ Frank and DJ Rican, plus a surprise performance by a reggaeton artist.

The Ford Amphitheatre announced its 2005 summer season of events, "The Spirit of Summer" opening on June 2, 2005. This year's roster offers a season full of entertaining and transformational cultural events for the whole family. June concerts include Brazilian Guitar Quartet on June 24, and Brazilian Summer Festival 2005 featuring Beth Carvalho on June 26. For a complete schedule of events visit www.FordAmphitheatre.org.

The 2nd Annual Colombian Music Festival will take place on Sunday, July 24 featuring the sounds of Grupo Niche and Lisandro Meza directly from Colombia. Performing from Los Angeles will be Chino Espinoza y Los Dueños del Son, the group Ritmo Caliente and DJ Frank. For more information call (310) 445-9705.

Support your local arts and artists. Peace.