SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (WRGB) — Formed in Amsterdam, Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra are bringing rhythm, culture, and connection to Capital Region students this Hispanic Heritage month.
The group performed for students at Schenectady High School earlier this month, one of several stops for its Arts in Ed program. For more than 20 years, the group has been visiting schools, from elementary to universities.
“We’re from here, although we travel internationally and nationally, and it’s very important that we share our culture and make everybody understand that we’re present,” Torres said. “Music teaches us geography, language, and, of course, aerobics.”
The group performs in Spanish. But the Arts in Ed program often includes a discussion or lecture portion in English, providing knowledge and insight into Latin music and the group’s roots.
“I enjoy seeing the faces of the kids that, sometimes, are underrepresented,” Torres told CBS6. “So, now, we’re going to represent it. It’s loud enough. We’re here, and the kids can say, ‘Hey, they represent us, now we feel good today. Today’s our day.”
Although Hispanic Heritage Month wraps Thursday, Torres and the group continue their performances across the Capital Region – from Schenectady to Menands, Coxsackie, Amsterdam, and Saratoga Springs – before heading to Massachusetts.
“Music is happy. Music is a universal language,” he said. “The students had a really good time, and it’s good that the Latino community of the students gets to witness seeing their other friends share the culture that we have.”
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Alex Torres & His Latin Orchestra kicked off Hispanic Heritage Month at the Empire State Plaza’s official Hispanic Heritage celebration in mid-September. Since its formation in 1980, the group has performed at hundreds of festivals, performing arts centers, and annual events, showcasing their blend of Afro-Caribbean rhythm.
