Larry Harlow and myself at Tech Rehearsal held at UMKC, the night before the big show.
Other than my artwork, I must have been salsa dancer in my past life because my passion on the dance floor is tremendous. Teaching salsa and to inspire others is also my passion. When I paint, music has to be present bc. I have gotten use to finding inspiration from musicians.
Larry Harlow is in Kansas City this week. Who is Larry Harlow?
Larry and his orchestra, Orquesta Harlow, was the second orchestra signed to the Fania Label, Harlow has also produced over 106 CD’s for various artists and over 50 CD’s on his own besides the ones he produced for Fania. Among his most popular albums were “Abran Paso” and “Tributo a Arsenio Rodriguez” with Ismael Miranda as the lead singer. Larry's opera "Hommy," which is credited for getting Celia Cruz out of retirement, was the first Latin musical performance in Carnegie Hall. In other firsts, Larry was the first ever piano player for legendary salsa group "The Fania All-stars," generally regarded as the single most important Salsa group of all time and the first Recording Producer for legendary salsa group "The Fania All-stars," he also appeared with "The Fania All-stars," in the movies Our Latin Thing (Nuestra Cosa), Live In Africa and Salsa. -Wikipedia online
Here is Larry doing what he does best. I have never been to a salsa band rehearsal before and I have always curious about their process of preparing for a concert. I am proud to have been to one of many more to come. For a humble salsa dancer and enthusiast like myself and having the opportunity to watch these talented musicians working together was truly inspiring.
To learn more about Larry and his band, visit http://www.larryharlow.com/biography.htm
Here is Miguel with his band www.elmamboworld.com who arranged for Larry to be in town.
I know hes excited being able to share a stage with one of his idols. It would be like me hanging out with Monet for a week. There really aren't words to describe that feeling of having such presence.
Over a course of seven years that I have been dancing, Miguel is one of band leaders that I have come to respect and to know personally. To see him and his two sons following his footsteps is amazing. His love and passion for his music is visible through his performances. We as Kansas Citians are lucky to have a talent such as him and his band members. We need to support our local artists!!! It is important to nurture this positive habit and continue to encourage others to do the same. Our contribution to the Arts in our city will benefit other generations to come.
To learn more about El Mambo himself, visit: www.elmamboworld.com
