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New York International Salsa Congress 2017

North America / USA / New York

The New York International Salsa Congress is New York City’s largest and longest-running Latin dance and music event where the world comes to dance every Labor Day Weekend. This year is the 17th annual edition and will take place at the prestigious New York Marriott Marquis, in the heart of Times Square, footsteps from Broadway theaters, museums and other NYC attractions.

New York International Salsa Congress 2017

Taking place August 31 – September 4, 2017

Featuring live band concerts, performance showcases, instructional workshops, and non-stop social dancing all in the center of the world’s greatest city, come see why the NYISC brings thousands of attendees from New York and over 40 countries worldwide for an annual celebration of Latin dance, music and culture.

This year, the 2017 NYISC promises to build on this foundation and take it to the next level. Taking place once again in the HEART of Times Square at the extraordinary Marriott Marquis, you will feel that you are dancing in the center of the world. We’ve upgraded to the larger Broadway Ballroom for an even more extraordinary dance experience.

Schedule for the 2017 New York International Salsa Congress

Enjoy workshops and performances from today’s most talented dancers, live music from world-famous bands, and social dancing all night long. All this in the mecca of culture and entertainment, home to countless attractions, parks, museums and shows – join us again for another memorable edition of New York City’s premier latin dance and music event!

Tickets

Vip Upgrade – $100: (For Full and Evening Pass holders) Upgrade to VIP status! VIP amenities include preferential VIP seating for evening performances, no waiting in line, plus a special VIP commemorative gift, and discounted access to official Congress pre-events.

Vip Upgrade (1 Night) – $35: (For Full and Evening Pass holders) Upgrade to VIP status for 1 night only! Includes preferential VIP seating for evening performances and no waiting in line.

Vip Full Passes – $399 + $22.94 Fee: provides access to all Congress workshops, performance showcases, live bands and social dancing for the entire event. (Does not include bootcamp).

Location

The New York Marriott Marquis is the host hotel for the 2017 New York International Salsa Congress, located in the heart of Times Square, at 1535 Broadway, New York, NY (45th Street).

Surround yourself with the sights and sounds of the city at the New York Marriott Marquis. Get relaxed and energized simultaneously as you step into some of the largest guest rooms in NYC, amid the hustle and bustle of famed Broadway. Nestled in the heart of Times Square, this Broadway hotel gives you easy access to exciting shows, Fifth Avenue shopping, Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Lincoln Center and Madison Square Garden.

New York Marriott Marquis Stage of the 2017 New York International Salsa Congress

The New York Marriott Marquis puts you in the midst of popular NYC attractions or near several subway lines to access any part of NYC.

Dance Instructors

Today’s most talented, creative, and popular dance instructors to bring their skills and technique to the next level. They are offering a number of workshops over the course of the weekend for beginners to gain confidence and for advanced dancers to enhance their repertoire.

Antonio Doza (Doza Dance Company, New York):

He is dancer, Actor, Model, Health & Fitness Advisor, Founder and Owner of Doza Dance Company from New York City. Known for his great performance presence, Antonio brings so much heat to the stage that he guarantees all eyes are on him.

As an instructor, he brings his intriguing style with his amazing Spinning, Isolation, Body Movement, Styling, Lead and Following, and Technique to his workshops and classes. He is featured in the salsa documentary La Epoca Pt.2 and is featured in various music videos by many top name commercial artists.

Antonio has traveled throughout the world teaching and showing off his talents. Antonio began dancing at the age of three. After many years of studying hip-hop and modern he took an interest in dancing Salsa. In 2008, he trained with the world renown, Clavekazi Dance Company, directed by Shaka Brown. He is currently touring, advising for Visalus, directing his dance company & acting.

Anya Katsevman (New York):

Born in Kiev, Ukraine, Anya Katsevman has been living in the United States since 1993. She began her dance training at the age of ten. After watching her brother become National Champion, Anya developed her own competitive drive that hasn’t stopped since.

She has won over 20 prestigious world titles in the international Latin dance arena, including Eastern United States Championships, Ohio Star Ball, La Classique Du Quebec, American Star Ball and the United States Open Championships. She has also starred in touring shows Burn the Floor and Dancing with The Stars. Anya also took part in numerous television productions including Sabado Gigante, Good morning America and multiple programming on Univision.

Anya has also danced for many latin artists such as El Gran Combo and Gilberto Santa Rosa. Often referred to as the future of salsa, Anya’s combined background of training, dynamic stage presence, elegance, graceful style, feminine approach, and strong technical action Anya quickly became one of the most sought after Latin dancers in the world. Currently, specialize in teaching all levels, coaching competitors and current champions and adjudicating competitions worldwide.

Delille “Mambo D” Thomas (New York):

Delille Thomas, also known as “Mambo D”, is one of the world’s most creative and dynamic Latin dance performers and instructors, internationally recognized for his pure style and virtuosity.

His dance background includes extensive training in Jazz, Modern, Hustle and Latin (Afro, Mambo, Cha-Cha, Tango) and various Caribbean and street dances. Since October 1992, Mr. Thomas has been teaching Mambo classes and conducting special workshops in New York City and various parts of United States and the world.

Ernesto And Denisse (Florida/New York):

Ernesto ‘El Watusi’ Bulnes was born in Honduras and raised in Miami, Florida, the city where he discovered his passion for dance. His initiation into Salsa began with training under the Mayan International Champion, Danny Bravo, an instructor who inspired Ernesto’s distinct dancing style.

Through training across various dance disciplines, he has developed his own style, a fusion of various arts and techniques that make him a distinct member to any dance floor.

After years of training, in 2011 Ernesto founded his own school, Potencia Latina Dance. Born in Miami with an Argentinean heritage, Denisse Cambria has accomplished many of her life goals starting with becoming one of the most well-known and recognized “Salsa” dancers in Florida, USA.

She has taught and performed with many top dance companies including Shaka Brown, Jayson Molina, Al “Liquidsilver”, Casa Salsa Dance Studio, Salsa Lovers Dance Studio, Project Generation, Energy One, Salsa Heatwave and Salsa Mia. She also competed at the ESPN World Salsa Championships with her partner Alfredo DiNatale.

After a total of 10 years of dancing salsa, she continues to enrich her craft with her partner Ernesto Bulnes and the New York Movement Competition team who are the new Professional Large Team WSS World Salsa Champions of 2016.

Lorenz Latin Dancers (New York):

The Lorenz Latin Dance Studios, With Four Locations In Nyc, Is A Complete Dance Academy Dedicated To Providing You With Professional Dance Instruction. We Offer Classes At All Levels, For Children, Teens And Adults, As Well As Choreography, Private Lessons, And Entertainment. Whether You Are An Experienced Dancer, Or Have Never Stepped Out On A Dance Floor,

We Have A Class That Suits Your Needs. Learn To Dance Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Merengue, Hustle, Tango Or Ballroom, With Our Experienced And Dedicated Instructors. They Have Locations In Glendale Queens, Corona Queens, The Bronx And Manhattan. Their Website Is Lorenzdancestudio.com

Among much other artists…

DJ’s

Their passion is bringing you the music that fills your soul and keeps you dancing the night away. They spin at the most popular socials, clubs and events where the serious dancers come together. Meet the best Salsa DJ’s in the world – They are 11 and you will be with them in the New York International Salsa Congress.

Dj Frankie Flores (Cleveland):

DJ Efrain “Frankie” Flores is The Main Resident DJ for the Renowned Baila Duro socials and festivals in Cleveland, OH and is working actively at keeping Classic Hard and Rare Salsa alive. He ignited his passion for music when he first started spinning house music in the basements of warehouses in Cleveland during the early 90s.

Dj Gonzo (Texas):

The musician, producer and DJ was born and raised in El Callao, Peru. At the age of 17, he moved to New York City. He studied music at Queens College music school and learned Latin percussion at Boys Harbor Conservatory for the Performing Arts located in El Barrio, NYC.

His musical studies helped him develop an eclectic taste, and led him to the authentic salsa vieja sound for which he is known. DJ Gonzo’s unique style and soundly rich music selection has made him one of the most influential and top salsa DJs in the U.S. In September 2014, DJ Gonzo launched DJ Gonzo Productions, and signed salsa legend piano virtuoso, Mr. Alfredito Linares.

DJ Gonzo productions’ first album was released the first week of November 2014. The album “DJ Gonzo presents Alfredito Linares – Salsa Pa Todo El Mundo” includes 10 dance floor killer tracks and is now a favorite by salsa DJs world-wide.

Dj Mike Calderon (Miami):

Mike Calderon is a native born and raised in the Magic City of Miami with descendents from Quito, Ecuador. At 21, he started taking Casino salsa lessons and that is where his journey to become a very popular local DJ began. Mastering Casino, he took his dancing to the next level with LA Style and On2 on his own with no classes, just by being in the socials and with other dancers.

DJ Mike Calderon has been doing weekly and monthly events since 23 years old in the salsa scene in Miami. DJ mike calderon (Miami) and much more Djs in New York salsa congress 2017… to get more information and detail about this amazing event, visit http://www.newyorksalsacongress.com

Efrain ‘’Junito’’ Davila, Victor Manuelle and Ricardo Arjona’s producer in International Salsa Magazine

Efrain ”Junito” Davila is one of those faces behind the scenes that makes many things the public enjoys possible, which has led him to work with big names in the industry who respect his work and know that having him on their teams is a guarantee of success and quality. The arranger, music producer, composer, orchestrator and pianist has honoured us by talking a little about his life and career, something he himself admits that he does not do very often, so we thank him for his trust in International Salsa Magazine to tell his story.

Efrain Junito Davila working — Producer, arranger, and pianist Efrain ”Junito” Davila doing his work. Photo by Gisselle

Efrain’s interest in music from an early age

Efrain begins his story by telling us that his house always had tropical music, in fact, his father Efrain Davila was a musician and his mother was a singer, so they took their young son to their respective orchestras’ rehearsals and constantly exposed him to everything about music. However, he did not show much interest in music until he was about 11 or 11 years old, when he started playing with a little piano he had at home. He found the instrument fascinating and very easy to understand, to the point that his father noticed how easy it was for him to play and bought him a bigger piano, music books and several cassettes so that he could learn about that whole world.

It can be said that at the age of 12, Efrain was already a musician and played in the same orchestra as his father, but it was the following year, at the age of 13, that he made his first tour to Panama, which was the first country he visited for work.

An interesting fact we want to mention about the group in which his father was trombonist, Orquesta Xariz, is that it was one of the first Christian salsa orchestras of the time, because back then, this genre was still seen as something mundane and ordinary, something similar to what we see with urban music today. Therefore, it was not easy for people to identify Christianity with salsa, but Orquesta Xariz did it and Efrain learned a lot from it.

Professional start in music

Although Efrain made his first tour at the age of 12, for him the beginning of his career as such was at the age of 15, age in which he was no longer playing with his father, but with other artists in nightclubs. Although he was still a minor, the fact that he was tall and had a little beard helped him to be allowed to perform in those places. By that time, the artist was already being paid for his work and was performing much more often.

Victor, Efrain, and Jerry — Victor Manuelle, Efrain ”Junito” Davila, and Jerry Rivera

Around the same time, he began to make musical arrangements, first for the Orquesta Xariz and then later for other independent artists in New York City. Efrain himself got involved in this area in a completely self-taught way, since he did not want to be dedicated solely to play piano for the rest of his life, but sought to explore what other areas music could offer him.

Already at 20 or 21 years old, he also became interested in music production, to which he has devoted himself ever since.

Efrain as a producer, arranger and orchestrator

Efrain comments that he began to be recognised for his work for the first time thanks to the group DLG (Dark Latin Groove), which was looking for young musicians to join their ranks at that time. It was then that he met Sergio George, the owner of the group, who was the first to offer him his first major opportunity to arrange music for artists signed to great labels such as Sony. It could be said that this was the moment the young man knew he wanted to remain dedicated to this field and, over the years, he grabbed much more experience to the point of dealing with multinationals and artists of great name.

Grammy and Premios Lo Nuestro nominations

Throughout his career, Efrain has been nominated for a Grammy, a Latin Grammy, and a Premios Lo Nuestro award once in every case, he was nominated due to a work made for Prince Royce because he was doing much bachata at the time and, on another occasion, it was together with his friend and partner Guianko Gomez. In that same year, a couple of projects with the Venezuelan group Guaco were also nominated, indicating that the musical elite had him on its radar and acknowledged his efforts over time.

Victor, Efrain, and Tito — Victor Manuelle, Efrain ”Junito” Davila, and Tito Nieves

Although the artist greatly appreciated that his work is taken into account in this way, he is very clear that obtaining prizes should not be his main goal, so he has to keep working hard and not settle for what he has achieved so far. He comes down to “you must not only look into the past, but also into the future”.

Collaborations with great artists

In the case of Maluma, Efrain clarifies that he did not work directly with him, but covered some of his best-known songs in salsa. However, there have been other great artists whom he does know directly, such as Ricardo Arjona, who coincidentally called him on the day of our conversation to discuss some pending issues.

He has also met and worked directly with Victor Manuelle, with whom he has been friends and worked on his last nine record productions. Efrain says that it is nice working with the Puerto Rican artist because he really knows what he wants. “Many artists today don’t know what they want. They know what they don’t want, but they don’t know what they do want, which makes things a little difficult for me. Artists with long-spanning careers like Victor, Ricardo himself, Servando, and Florentino Primera know exactly what they want, so they are able to tell me what they are looking for in their work,” Efrain said about the topic.

He also mentioned that he usually has trouble with new artists for the same reason, since being inexperienced, he is the one who has to create a sound or wave from where starting. However, he continues to work with them, but he has to use much more creativity in constantly inventing and creating song demos so that they can see what they like.

It should also be mentioned that other important artists he is working with such as La India, Olga Tañón, and Tito Nieves.

Florentino, Efrain, and Servando — Florentino Primera, Efrain ”Junito” Davila, and Servando Primera

Behind-the-scenes work

Owing to the nature of his work, Efrain’s face is not as well known to the public as is the case of the great singers and musicians who work with him. When questioned about this, he says that he has never liked drawing attention and prefers to stay behind the cameras as a producer. He acknowledges that there are colleagues who do like media attention, but this is not his case. In fact, he does not participate much in interviews like this or podcasts. He believes that being very famous brings problems and prefers to live in peace and retain his privacy.

Azúcar Latin Dance Company

North America / Canada / Ottawa

Ottawa’s premiere dance school specializing in Latin, Street and AfroCaribbean dances. Their mission is to bring the energy, passion and joy of dance to Ottawa and get you dancing to the music in your heart. Teachers expert and friendly instruction will get you dance floor-ready in record time, and the group outings and social events will introduce you to the amazing Ottawa dance community!

They take inspiration from the original Queen of salsa, Celia Cruz. She is famous for her sunny disposition, her warmth and passion, as well as her trademark of shouting “Azúcar!” (“Sugar” in Spanish) in her songs. They are inspired by her positive attitude towards life and her desire to share the joy of dance and music with as many people as possible

Meet The Team

Jeff Huang

Director is passionate about music and dances. He started dancing Latin street dances (salsa, bachata, merengue, and cha cha) in 2005 and has not stopped since – learning from many wonderful and talented instructors across Canada as well as across the globe.

This has made Jeff a well-rounded teacher with an eye for detail, while his easy going attitude makes everybody feels welcome at the studio. Jeff is extremely dedicated to his students, believing that they are the true heart of the company. He hopes to create a loving community where everyone can learn and laugh together, and share their love of dance. CONTACT JEFF [email protected]

Ana Gherasim

Director Ana is definitive proof that anyone can learn to dance. Discouraged from pursuing dance from a young age, she grew up convinced that she had two left feet. Thanks to Jeff’s infinite patience, she took up salsa in 2008 and is now one of our most enthusiastic teachers.

While Jeff is the (clave tempo-ed) heart of Azúcar! Ana is its brain, also dealing with the less artistic aspects of school management and administration. When she’s not teaching or running the studio, you’ll find her in most of our classes, lending a hand as well as honing her own style. CONTACT ANA [email protected]

Salsa Level 1, Instructors: Ana & Brian, Jeff & Ashvini

Take your first salsa steps! Discover the salsa rhythm, basic steps, left and right turns, crossbody leads, inside traveling turns, and simple combinations. You will also learn partnering technique and simple footwork to spice up your dancing! No partners needed!

Salsa Level 2 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Go beyond the basics! Each 7-week session we introduce a combination of footwork and partnering moves based on common salsa patterns, including double-hand turns, hammerlock holds, wraps, traveling turn variations and more. We also introduce spin technique and body isolation exercises at this level. No partners needed!

Salsa Level 3 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Once you have mastered ALL the moves we teach in Salsa Level 2, explore the endless combinations salsa has to offer while honing your technique and style. In this class we introduce more complex concepts (such as copas, 360s, multiple spins) and create new footwork and partnering combinations that will make you the star of the dance floor. No partners needed!

Salsa Shines Choreography Instructor: Ashvini

Ever feel like you’re not sure what to do when it comes to salsa shines? This class introduces and breaks down shines footwork, technique and styling through learning a piece of shines choreography. It’s perfect for those who would like to improve their shines repertoire and feel more confident on the social floor! As an added bonus – if you’ve ever been interested in exploring salsa performance, this is a great taster for what it’s like to learn and perfect a piece of choreography, without the pressure to actually perform (unless you really want to!). Open to all levels and genders.

Bachata Level 1 Instructors: Ana & Brian

Take your first Bachata steps! Our Level 1 course introduces you to the bachata rhythm, basic steps, turns and promenades that are the core of this fun and intimate dance, as well as basic styling elements to add sizzle to your dancing! Get dance floor-ready in 7 weeks! No partners needed!

Bachata Level 2 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Once you are comfortable with the beginner moves covered in Bachata Level 1, this class takes it up a notch and introduces more complex moves. Mix things up with outside turns, cuddles and hammerlocks, fancy footwork, sensual body isolations and lots of turn patterns and combinations to take straight to the dance floor. No partners needed!

Bachata Level 3 Instructors: Ana & Jeff

Take your bachata to new heights! Once you have mastered Bachata Level 2, join this intermediate-level class. Learn how to get comfortable with your partner, develop great bachata leading and following technique, and make your dancing stand out from the crowd! No partners needed!

Salsaton Instructor: Emilie

Spice it up with Salsa & Reggaeton! This class is about adding spice to how you dance, whether you dance as your workout, to build up your confidence on the dance floor or just to have fun! Emilie will be giving lots of options for everyone to feel comfortable.

Dancehall Funk Instructor: Emilie

Dancehall is a Jamaican dance that includes elements of Reggae, African, Hip Hop, House and Latin. It’s all about confidence, creativity, expression, attitude, and FUN. Come learn a combination of hot moves and an energetic routine full of street smart choreography, dancing to the hottest music. Get ready for an energetic and challenging class!

Heels Instructor: Emilie

Strut your stuff! Celebrate creativity, individuality, uniqueness and fierceness! Dance styles such as Vogue, Sass and Jazz to get you moving to great music in heels. Learn a sexy routine and find new confidence on and off the dance floor! You won’t want to miss this class with Emilie!

Afro-Beats Level 1 Instructor: Natalie

Learn the basics of African dance and movement groove to great music, and get your sweat on with fun choreography! We’ll explore styles such as Azonto, Coupé Decalé, Afro House, and Dancehall. You will sweat and laugh, make new friends and improve your stamina as you learn fun combinations, technique and routines. Personal expression is encouraged!

Samba Instructor: Natalie

Join the carnival vibe! Experience the pulsating rhythms and energetic moves of Samba. Learn exhilarating dance combinations and routines as we travel across the floor and venture into some of the liveliest dances of Brazilian culture. This exciting class is certain to empower, energize, lift your spirits….and your booty too!

Sunday Workshop Series

Come explore a different dance, or aspect of dancing, the first and third Sunday of each month!

Don’t forget to know more about Azucar! in their website, so you can sing up and shop. Natalie http://www.azucarottawa.com/

Joint Our Team

Do you enjoy Latin music?

Would you like to get more involved in this genre and share your passion for Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Merengue and more.

Why not joint our Global Team of volunteers as a correspondent?

You can ask for more details with no obligation and we’ll be happy to talk to you about the benefits that come with the role

5th Annual Tricities Salsa Congress 2017

North America / USA / Washington

Come and enjoy the 5th Annual Tricities Salsa Congress at the Kennewick Red Lion, this September 22 – 24. This is one of the largest Latin events in eastern Washington with instructors from D.C., L.A. and Portland. Discounted passes are on sale now. Prices will be higher at the door. Friday and Saturday Nights Social passes will be sold at the door.

Dancing in 5th Annual Tricities Salsa Congress 2017- Photo 2

Don’t miss out on this spectacular event!!!!

2 full days of workshops on Saturday and Sunday.
2 workshop tracks to choose from each hour.
Social dancing Friday and Saturday night. 3 separate party rooms: a Salsa/Bachata ballroom, a Kizomba ballroom, and the Cumbia Party Room

Tickets: Full Pass $99.00 + $3.47 FEE (Including access to all workshop, performances and socials)

Hotel The Red Lion Hotel at Columbia Center is located within walking distance of Columbia Center Mall and numerous restaurants in Kennewick, WA Venue 1101 North Columbia Center Boulevard, Kennewick,WA 99336.

Instructors

Eddy vents (Portland, or):

Eddy Vents was born in Guinea – Bissau and raised in Portugal. Growing up part of the Palop Community, Eddy always felt electrified by Kizomba. In 1998, he began his career as a promoter in Lisbon which he continued after moving to London in October 2009.

Eddy Vents - 5° Congreso Anual de Salsa Tricities 2017 Flyer 2 — Eddy Vents – 5° Congreso Anual de Salsa Tricities 2017 Flyer 2

Eddy’s immense love, passion, and knowledge of Kizomba were recognized by respected Kizomba teacher Norma Facey and Eddy humbly credits her for starting his teaching career around March 2010.

Eddy is known for a teaching style submerged in history and musicality which he believes are fundamental in producing top quality dancers and he is condent the success of his method is demonstrated each time his students take the dance floor

Erica Saucillo (Los Angeles, CA):

Erika Saucillo was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She started dancing at the young age of four. Throughout the years, she trained in various dances such as folkloric, jazz, and hip-hop.

Erica Saucillo (Los Ángeles, CA): - 5° Congreso Anual de Salsa Tricities 2017 Flyer 1 — Erica Saucillo (Los Ángeles, CA): – 5° Congreso Anual de Salsa Tricities 2017 Flyer 1

Erika began her Latin dance journey at the age of 21 when she first trained with “Alma Latina Los Angeles” directed by the world renown Sergio Jasso and Gaby Equiz. Erika quickly became the director of one of the largest Salsa/Bachata team in Los Angeles, “Quest Salchata Crew”. She is currently one of today’s top rising instructor & performer. Erika is a champion and top finalists at some of the world’s most important Latin dance competitions. She won the 3rd place in the World Latin Dance Cup Cha Cha Cha division, 2nd in the Top Female Bachata Social Dancer, and won first place at the 2016 LA top Female Salsa Social Dancer.

Oscar B.A. (Washington DC):

Oscar B.A is one of the pioneer ambassadors of Kizomba in the US. Currently based in the Washington, DC area, he has taught Kizomba workshops in some of the biggest Latin Dance festivals including The DC Bachata Festival, Flirt Seattle, and Reno Winter Bachata Festival. A sought after nonpareil dance instructor, he has been invited to run Kizomba boot camps by dance companies in Los Angeles, CA, Seattle, WA, Reno, NV and more.

Oscar currently teaches the longest running Kizomba dance classes in the DC, MD and VA Metropolitan area. Oscar’s career spans over 16 years of dancing, choreographing and instructing several dance disciplines. With roots in African dance, hip-hop, and Latin movement, Oscar founded the premier dance company Ollover!

Mario Vargas (Seattle, WA):

Mario was born in Nicaragua and raised in Miami. After moving to Seattle in 2012, Mario began dancing salsa and bachata and performed in various dance teams. After immersing himself in dance, Mario started teaching in 2013 and is currently teaching salsa and kizomba at the Salsa N Seattle studio. He has taught at numerous dance events including Vancouver (Canada), D.F. (Mexico), LA, and Washington DC. In addition to teaching, he hosts a weekly kizomba social on Wednesdays at the SNS studio. Mario will be teaching Kizomba at the 2016 Tri-Cities Salsa Congress with Shannon Urza.

And much more will be there…

DJS 5 Djs in scenes featuring during the weekend…

Mary Lyons (DJ Farenj) – Seattle, WA

Originally from the Boston area, Mary was exposed to “Kizomba” music by her Cape Verdean brother-in-law before it was popular in the United States dance community. Attending family gatherings in the 1990’s first introduced her to the music and culture of the Cape Verdean islands.

Not until 2011, did she discover the Angolan dances, kizomba, and Semba, which accompanied some of the beautiful music, she was already in love with. Further investigation and immersion into this music genre, extended her love and interest to the roots and culture of Angolan Kizomba and Semba. Mary regularly DJ’s at Century Ballroom in Seattle, as well as festivals including The White House Kizomba/Zouk Summit, Only Dance Seattle Festival, Seattle Salsa Congress, Seattle Bachata Kizomba Festival, and Tri-Cities Salsa Congress.

Dancing in 5th Annual Tricities Salsa Congress 2017- Photo 3

Sonido Marakero Tri-Cities, Wa

Sergio Luna Rocha aka Sonido Marakero is from Mexico City and lives currently in Pasco, WA with his family. Sonido Marakero loves to dance to cumbia, bachata and salsa music. He has enjoyed playing music since he was a young kid and has perfected his talent. He plays music around the area of Tri-Cities, Seattle, Yakima and Walla Walla. Sonido Marakero is a happy individual who loves to make other people dance on the dance floor. Come out and have a wonderful night and dance to the music played by Sonido Marakero. Look forward to seeing everyone having a wonderful time.

5th Annual Tricities Salsa Congress 2017 Flyer 3

To get more information about 5TH ANNUAL TRI-CITIES SALSA CONGRESS 2017 in Kennewick – Washington, visit: http://www.tricitiessalsacongress.com