Événement

FIRST FRIDAY Music Series @ Galeria West with TRIO PASIONAL

The FIRST FRIDAY Music series continues with a special evening celebrating the mesmerizing mestizo music traditions of Ecuador with the acclaimed TRIO PASIONAL.
Trio Pasional consists of North American flutist Sharon Levin, Ecuadorian guitarist Louis Cardenas and Dominican guitarist Luis Polanco. These dynamic performers have been entertaining audiences in the New York metropolitan area and beyond for over 20 years. "The music of Pasional," says Cardenas, "is representative of the various facets of Ecuadorian sentiments and cultures of many generations." Another contribution has been made by Levin, first chair with the New Jersey Pops Orchestra, who he says, "has brought her classical training and sensitivity to these unique mestizo sounds, creating a remarkable listening experience for audiences."
Luis Polanco brings with him a rich musical background. He has performed and led numerous salsa and merengue orchestras both in the U.S. and in his native Dominican Republic. He has performed in Mexico with the well-known Cuban group Cuco Valoi and his Orchestra. His virtuosity on the guitar adds greatly to the sound of Trio Pasional.
Luis Cardenas has been performing on the Spanish guitar since the age of fourteen and comes to share with us his wonderful interpretations of the "haunting" mestizo sounds of his native Ecuador.
Trio Pasional's various CD music recording projects are dedicated to rain forest preservation. Cardenas and Levin, who taught and performed in Costa Rica, are strong environmentalists and hope that their music concerts will help raise awareness of the need to conserve the South American rain forest as well as the cultures that flourish there.
Perhaps plan to enjoy a meal before or after the show at one of several fine establishments in downtown Westfield and the surrounding area.
Event proceeds benefit programming efforts at TEATRO Si, a 501(c)3 not for profit NJ corporation.