Even with the uncomfortable heat, music fans gathered on the lawn, concrete, railings, across the Founders Bridge Promenade, and even in boats on the river for the Ray González Latin Jazz and Salsa Festival.
Guakibomjazz, a 16-piece jazz orchestra, kicked off the festival. This ensemble is made of youth ages 9-18. Tito Puente’s “Oye Como Va” was included in their set; the final act of the evening also performed the song, but given the interpretation, this hardly felt repetitive.
PuertoSax, a saxophone quartet, was a highlight of the evening. They were upbeat and tight.
The festival ended with the Ray González 25-piece Big Band Orchestra.
Take a moment to digest that.
The amphitheater stage is not enormous.
They played music by Tito Puente and Tito Rodriguez, had vocalists, and were the clear audience favorite.
This is an annual event, so if you missed it, watch for it around this time next year.
