TallBeat is Toronto’s high energy, high impact stilt-walking drum core that can be seen and heard over 100 meters away, guaranteed to bring joy and amazement to any event. With colourful costumes, choreography, and traditional Maracatu drums, TallBeat raises Afro-Brazilian rhythms to new heights!
Papo Ross moved to Montreal (Canada) in 1990 to serve as a musical director for another Dominican group based in the city. In April 1992 he founded Pambiche. Since then, this 13-piece powerhouse has established itself as a leader of Canada’s latin music scene with its groovin’ Afro-Latin rhythms deeply rooted in the Caribbean. Papo Ross & Orquesta Pambiche has performed over 500 concerts and have received rave reviews for their shows at the International Hispanic Fiesta (Toronto), Montreal’s ¡Oyé! Series, the 1994 Detroit/Montreux Jazz Festival and for 4 explosive performances in front of 20,000 people at the 1993, 94, 96 and 99 editions of the Montreal International Jazz Festival. The Pambiche is derived from the Dominican rhythm merengue, and its roots can be easily traced back to 1916, the year that marked the first United States intervention in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Most of the American soldiers, who came for Palm Beach, were tempted by the intensity of merengue, but could not dance to the fast tempo. A reduction of the rhythm was then accommodated to make it easier for the Americans to keep up to the beat. Hence this new musical version of merengue became known as “El Palm Beach”. For most Dominicans however, it was difficult to pronounce this word in Spanish. Over the years, a new expression was adopted, and whenever people talked about this particular style it was simply referred to as Pambiche.
Papo Ross has toured extensively in support of their Juno nomination debut CD, Vamo’ a Pambicha’ . The infectious combination of merengue, salsa, bachata, cumbia and others latin rhythms makes Papo Ross & Orquesta Pambiche the hottest Latin act north of the border.
Lu Jayan, a versatile artist born in Venezuela and now based in Canada, is a true musical powerhouse, excelling as a singer, songwriter, music producer, sound engineer, and a highly sought-after background vocalist. His exceptional journey has earned him a well-deserved place in prestigious organizations like the “Latin Grammys,” BMI, and the Canadian Academy of Recording and Sciences (CARAS). With a remarkable portfolio of accomplishments, Lu Jayan has graced the stages of Canada’s most prominent events, captivating audiences at the TD Salsa Festival in Toronto, the Venezuelan Festival in Montreal, the Fiesta de las Culturas de St Rémi, the Festival de Brossard, and many more noteworthy events.
Notably, Lu Jayan’s versatility as an artist extends to his roles as a background vocalist for internationally recognized artists such as Edgar Joel, Oscar Quezada, and Nino Segarra, among others. His vocal contributions have added depth and dimension to the performances of these celebrated musicians, further solidifying his reputation within the industry. In a testament to his extraordinary talents, Lu Jayan received an astounding four nominations at the 2020 Canada Latin Awards. These nominations encompassed coveted categories such as Producer of the Year, Tropical Song of the Year, and Composer of the Year, showcasing his multifaceted abilities within the music industry.
His influence extends beyond national borders as well. His musical contributions have graced international projects, including GDP-Lab in France and Ambassade du Bonheur in Quebec, Canada. Notably, Lu Jayan’s creative talents have also been recognized in the realm of radio, where he has lent his expertise as both a composer and a host for various shows and commercials in Quebec and Venezuela. Building upon his momentum, the years 2021 and 2022 witnessed Lu Jayan’s continued rise. He garnered four more nominations at the Canada Latin Awards, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. Adding to his list of achievements, his singles “Solo Quiero” and “Sueño Clandestino” have collectively accumulated an impressive 300,000 streams on Spotify and are accessible across more than 40 digital platforms.
Alejandro Jauregui, known as “El Charro de Jalisco” (The Charro of Jalisco), has been singing passionately for 12 years, drawing inspiration from Mexican music icons like Pedro Infante. Originally from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Alejandro dedicates himself to Mariachi music and can often be found performing at Tequila Imperial restaurant.
Born in Cali, Colombia. “La Sucursal de la Salsa”. John Alejandro Caicedo is also better known as DJ ALEJO, Its an award winning DJ/Artist – Producer known for his Latin roots and unique style which contagiously spins off from his turntables in the most highlighted events in the country and second home Canada.
Established in the city of Toronto, DJ ALEJO’s experience in Radio & TV illustrates his ability to Host & Entertain, becoming a staple in the community participating in the biggest Canadian Festivals & Arenas like The Pan American Kick off Games, The Pan American Food & Music Festival, Latin SPARKS, The Hamilton Latin Festival & Toronto Pride & Rogers Center.
With over 15 years of experience, he has had a very successful career positioning him self internationally. His open format music style in combination with the Latin, urban, Tropical and EDM genres transport his audience transcending age from kids to teenagers and adults without any language barriers in the form of masses.
Consequently, with no limitation, this carries his followers from geographical locations from South America, Central America, Caribbean, North America and Europe.
DJ ALEJO’s notorious presentations have also been received by an elite group of Artist such as J Balvin, Ozuna, Daddy Yankee, Maluma, Carlos Vives & Oscar D’ Leon among many others.
Nelcy embarked on her fitness journey in 2017 when she became a licensed Zumba Instructor. Born and raised in the heart of the St. Clair West community in Toronto, she decided to share and teach her passion for Latin-inspired dance right where she grew up. With a vibrant blend of Chilean and Colombian heritage, Nelcy’s cultural roots deeply influence her rhythmic movements. Nelcy holds 11 years of dancing experience and started working as a Zumba instructor at Shapefitness gym in 2017, formerly known as Uptown Fitness (located at St. Clair Ave W & Dufferin St). Nelcy’s infectious love for Zumba and wellness has led her to network and perform at various Zumba masterclasses and fundraisers across the City. Nelcy’s passion for dance and fitness shines through, inspiring those around her to lead healthier, happier lives through movement.
Dive into the vibrant sounds of Venezuela with Sentir Venezuela Ensemble! This group is set to dazzle and delight audiences at the TLN Fiesta Parade, led by the talented musical director, José Javier Blanco, the lineup includes Jesus Galdona, Y Josephine, Carlos Galdona, and Juan Tambores. Get ready to experience the essence of Venezuelan rhythms like never before!
Abanico Dance Academy founded in 2015 in Toronto, ON, teaches adults, teens and children the most popular Latin dance styles (Salsa & Bachata) at social, recreational, performance and competitive levels. With our eye on performing and entertaining we can take a student from social to competitive dancer.
We carefully create dance courses, classes, workshops and team training programs that support the development of strong dancers, performers and great entertainers. We support all students in their dance goals and for those who are ready – help take their passion to stage.
For adults we instruct in Salsa, Bachata, Cha-Cha-Cha, Merengue, Rueda de Casino, AfroCuban, Ballroom, Heels and Afrobeats. For children ages 6-17 we offer Jazz, Ballet, Acrobatics, Hip Hop, KPop and Latin Rhythms. Our talented and passionate dance faculty with decades of teaching, performance and commercial dance experience will help bring out the dancer in you – no matter the age or starting level. We believe dance is the pursuit of development of mind, body and soul.
Son D’Aqui is a proficient, effervescent Salsa orchestra based in the Greater Toronto Area. The band was established in 2017, by two of the city’s leading percussionists, Vince Alvarado and Johan Aguirre. Debuting at Lula Lounge, one of Toronto’s top live music venues, they quickly gained popularity for paying tributes to Latin music legends, earning the honor to perform on stages such as the prestigious Koerner Hall. With a unique approach, Son D’Aqui curates each and every show to accurately honor the artist, delivering the audience an authentic and unforgettable experience.
In 2022, Son D’Aqui supported international Salsa artists; Maelo Ruiz, Tony Vega, and Mauro Mosquera. In addition, they have played at many outdoor festivals such as Salsa on St. Clair, Beaches Jazz Festival, and Mississauga Latin Festival.
Sazon Dance Company, led by Latin directors, is seasoning Toronto with vibrant Latin flavour. Our award-winning dancers and teams bring fire, energy, and the joy of dancing Salsa and Bachata to every stage across Canada. Rooted in culture, passion, great energy, and dedication, our weekly classes welcome everyone! From absolute beginners to advanced dancers. At Sazon, we celebrate hard work, community, and the unstoppable spirit of Latin dance.