ABOUT US

AFINKE (pronounced ah-‘fin-keh and correctly spelled “afinque”) is a traditional Spanish slang term used amongst percussionist and musicians in general to denote a group who plays together as a team (‘nsync). Our 8-piece musical group is comprised of seasoned musicians, who after touring with many notables, decided to come together to share their talents of entertaining audiences and educating them about our Latin musical genre. In addition, we wanted to reach our youth and teach them about our cultural heritage through our music. Our band is highlighted not only for our musicality but also for our showmanship.

Throughout our band’s lifespan, we have had the pleasure of performing in many forums. Some of these include universities, public schools, festivals and even cruises. We have been one of the highlight bands at several large events such as the International Festival of Arts and Ideas in New Haven, Norwalk Oyster Festival, Celebrate! West Harford and Queens College Summer Festival Series to name a few. Our diverse repertoire includes styles typical to many Latin American countries including: Salsa, Merengue, Cumbia, Boleros, Plena, Latin jazz, among others. Our repertoire consists of well-known songs as well as original compositions orchestrated specifically for our ensemble.

Orquesta Afinke is led by trombonist Tito Planas and percussionist Samuel Diaz Jr., two educators who have had the pleasure to share the stage with many well known artists such as Frankie Negron, Tony Vega, Choco Orta, Charlie Cruz, Kevin Ceballo, Raulin Rosendo, Hermanos Moreno amongst other greats of the Latin musical field.  Many of our members have recorded with many notables in the Latin and Jazz world. We are currently working on our first CD, which should be released soon.

Prepare to be amused and get ready to dance, because here comes Orquesta Afinke…