Orquesta Ritmo – 2016

Orquesta Ritmo

Friday, Aug 5, 2016 – 8:15 – 9:30
North Stage

The current mission of ORQUESTA RITMO, as it was when it was originally created, is:

To introduce, educate, and entertain the American public in the electrifying genre of Latin Music.  The latest version of ORQUESTA RITMO currently consists of ten players.  They are some of the best from Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Flint.

The current members are:

Mike Eyia Sr. director, guitar, lead vocals, percussion, arranger.

Dennis Therrien, piano, arranger

Jon Gewirtz, saxophone, flute.

Walter Cano, lead trumpet.

Gina Benalcazar, trombone.

Perice Pope, 2nd trumpet.

Jon Weber, kit / timbales.

Brian Rosario, Latin percussion and vocals.

James Rodriguez, congas, vocals and arranger.

Terry Newman, bass.

The band has been performing all over the Midwest for many years.  They have opened for a number of national and international acts, including such artists as Salsa great Oscar D’Leon, recording artists Los Lobos, The Bangles at the Common Ground Festival in Lansing, and Pete Escovido at the Flint Jazz Festival among others. The band has also garnered a number of accolades including a Special Tribute from the Michigan Legislature for promoting the Cuban Culture in the Mid-Michigan area. Currently, the Band has been performing at many Festivals and Private Functions all over the State.

Performer Website