The sounds of Latin jazz filled the halls of the Musical Instrument Museum when they hosted their monthly cultural celebration—that day, highlighting the vibrant and diverse genre of Latin jazz.
The two-day event featured live performances, guest speakers, and interactive workshops, offering visitors an immersive musical experience.
“This event really serves as an extension of the exhibits and a celebration of the community here in Central Arizona,” said Mike Silvers, MIM’s Curator of Education.
The performances showcased music from across Latin America, including bossa nova, salsa, bolero, and cumbia and ranging from beloved classics to jazz interpretations of modern songs.
One of the opening acts, Orquesta Juvenil Latino Caribeña, returned to MIM for their sixth performance. The group opened with a reimagined jazz cover of Camila Cabello’s “Havana,” followed by classics such as “Quién Será,” “Bésame Mucho,” and “Bachata Rosa.”
While many in the crowd grooved along in their seats, others were drawn in by the rhythm, dancing along the sides and eventually moving closer to the stage.
“This is like a temple for music,” said the group’s director.
Following the performance, a dance workshop led by the Arizona State University Salsa Club invited attendees to engage directly with the music, adding to the event’s interactive atmosphere.
The South Mountain Community College Latin Jazz Band took the stage, led by longtime director Eddie Gaona, who provided historical context for each piece.
The band performed a wide-ranging set, including the Broadway classic “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “Smile” by Charlie Chaplin, and “El Cazanguero” by Rubén Blades, Willie Colón, and Héctor Lavoe. They also performed the bolero classic “Sabor a Mí,” one of the most widely recognized Mexican love songs.
The band’s vocalist delivered a powerful performance that echoed throughout both floors of the museum, captivating audiences.
With galleries lined with instruments from around the world, events like these allow visitors to experience music beyond static displays.
“One of the critiques we often receive is that instruments are just hung on a wall,” Silvers said.
“Events like this allow us to bring those instruments to life.”
As the performances continued, attendees repeatedly rose to dance, demonstrating the powerful connection between music and movement.
“The music has been wonderful—it reminds me of when my dad and my brothers would play music together in the front yard,” said attendee Lucy Martinez with a laugh.
The weekend was closed out by Bolero Jonze, a Tucson-based trio that performed with a distinctive sound, blending the familiar Latin Jazz sound with post-punk.
Their set, while featuring traditional Cumbias, also included unique covers of “Making Plans for Nigel” and “Ever Fallen in Love.”
Their cello solos and funky guitar sections were a welcome twist and unique ending to the evening.
“These events are important because they celebrate Phoenix’s diversity and give people something they can connect with,” Silvers said.
MIM hosts events like this each month, each highlighting a different musical genre, with next month being a celebration of Reggae.
For Silvers, he hopes people leave the museum with a lasting impression.
“Music connects society. It brings people together, and it brings joy,” he said. “I hope people leave with a sense of connection and joy.”
