Baby Loves Salsa: One-Hour Family Performances! January 30, 2011

Two performances at: 1 pm and 4 pm

Just as Dan Zanes has revolutionized kids’ music, José Conde — leader of the New York-based band Ola Fresca — takes the Afro-Cuban form of salsa and turns it into something that kids and parents both love. Born in Chicago and raised in Miami by his Cuban-immirgrant parents, Conde earned a degree from Berklee College of Music in the late 1990s. After experimenting with jazz, rock, funk, blues, and Latin music, he realized his musical journey was leading him back to his Cuban roots. He formed Ola Fresca (Fresh Wave) in 2000 to present traditional, Cuban rhythms and style while still incorporating non-traditional elements. His music is featured on several Putamayo recordings of kids’ music, including Picnic Playground and Jazz Playground. Whatever you do, don’t be misled by the band’s name — kids who have outgrown their diapers are sure to enjoy this band’s dizzying range of Afro-Latin styles.

Official Website: http://www.ums.org/s_current_season/artist.asp?pageid=609