The Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra (KSO) invites you to an exhilarating evening celebrating Latin American music on Friday, March 21, 2025. The concert will highlight the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Steelband, directed by Liam Teague, adding a vibrant Caribbean flair.

Pre-Concert Events

6:30 pm Pre-Concert Talk – KSO Music Director Linc Smelser provides insight into the music and cultural influences.

Lobby Performance – Enjoy NIU Mariachi, directed by Tony Ozuna.

Program Highlights

The evening’s program will include an exciting variety of selections:

• Danzón No. 2 – Arturo Márquez (Mexico)
• Estancia Dances – Alberto Ginastera (Argentina)
• Huapango – José Pablo Moncayo (Mexico)
• El Cóndor Pasa – Daniel Alomía Robles (Peru)
• Libertango – Astor Piazzolla (Argentina)
• Tico Tico No Fuba – Zequinha de Abreu (Brazil), orchestrated by Jamie Whitmarsh
• Tocata from Bachianas Brasileiras No. 2 – Heitor Villa-Lobos (Brazil)
• Caribbean Connection – Dennis Franklyn Williams aka Merchant (Trinidad), Arr. Kenneth Joseph
• Mambo Caliente – Arturo Sandoval (Cuba), Steelband Arr. Matt Schneider, Full Orchestra Arr. Joshua Bedeau
• La Dueña del Swing – Los Hermanos Rosario (Dominican Republic), Arr. Joshua Bedeau
• La Vida es un Carnaval – Celia Cruz (Cuba), Arr. Kenneth Joseph

Spotlight on the NIU Steelband

Founded in 1973, the NIU Steelband was the first active steel orchestra at an American university and remains a global leader in steelpan performance and education.

Get Your Tickets Now!

Don’t miss this electrifying celebration of Latin American music! Advance tickets are encouraged. For more information and tickets, visit kishorchestra.org.