My Musical Journey with Salsa Libre

Playing with Salsa Libre was an exhilarating experience that broadened my musical horizons and deepened my appreciation for the rich tapestry of salsa music. Over the course of three gigs—one at a resort with an eight-piece ensemble, another at a baseball stadium with a smaller five-piece band, and a third at a rooftop university event—I had the chance to immerse myself in a genre that is both vibrant and technically challenging. Each performance was unique in its setup and vibe, offering distinct lessons and memorable moments.

Salsa Libre is an established salsa band known for its energetic performances that blend traditional and contemporary Latin rhythms. Formed in the late 1990s, the band has become a regional favorite, offering lively dance music that draws crowds to various venues and festivals. The group features a dynamic lineup of musicians on timbales, congas, trumpet, trombone, bass, guitar, and vocals, creating an authentic Latin sound that keeps audiences dancing wherever they perform.

They regularly appear at local events and are continually expanding their presence by performing in nearby cities. Over the years, Salsa Libre has built a loyal following, and their renewed activity has introduced their vibrant sound to a growing audience.

Gig 1: Resort Performance

Our first gig was a full-scale salsa affair with an eight-piece band. The lineup included three horns, a singer, bass, guitar, timbales, and conga—creating a rich, layered sound typical of classic salsa ensembles. The large group allowed for complex arrangements and a powerful brass section that drove the music forward with infectious energy.

Preparing for this gig was a rigorous process. Given the complexity of the arrangements and the tight interplay between instruments, it was crucial to be thoroughly prepared. The bandleader had provided charts, but the real work began with understanding the nuances of salsa rhythms and how each instrument contributed to the overall sound. I dedicated countless hours to practicing, focusing on the intricate rhythmic relationships and ensuring my guitar parts blended seamlessly with the percussion and brass.

The performance was a resounding success. The audience, filled with salsa enthusiasts, responded enthusiastically to our set. The energy was palpable, and the dance floor was packed. Highlights included fiery renditions of salsa classics like Carbonerito and La Rueda, where the horns shone and the rhythm section kept everyone moving. The acoustics of the space allowed the band’s full sound to resonate beautifully, giving the music a thrilling, live intensity.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this gig was the feedback from the bandleader and fellow musicians. They appreciated my preparation and how I fit seamlessly into the ensemble despite it being my first time playing with them. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of preparation and adaptability—especially in a genre as dynamic and rhythmically demanding as salsa.

Here is a short excerpt from “El Timbalero” from that performance.

Gig 2: Stadium Event

The second gig took place at a baseball stadium, a more casual outdoor setting with a smaller five-piece band. This lineup included guitar, saxophone, bass, a singer, and a percussionist. The reduced setup required a different approach, focusing more on individual musicianship and interplay.

Playing with a smaller ensemble was both a challenge and a joy. Without the full brass section and additional percussion, there was more space in the arrangements, which meant that each musician’s contribution was more pronounced. My role on guitar became more prominent—providing rhythm, filling in melodic gaps, and driving the harmonic structure. I also got to solo on nearly every tune, which wasn’t the case with the larger ensemble.

The open-air environment of the ballpark was perfect for a summer evening, and the audience, though not as dance-focused as the first, enjoyed the music. We played a mix of salsa classics like “Puerto Rico” by Eddie Palmieri (see excerpt here), Latin jazz standards like “Cantaloupe Island” by Herbie Hancock, and pop tunes like “Yesterday” by The Beatles (on which an excerpt of my solo is here.)

Gig 3: Rooftop University Event

The third gig was part of a cross-cultural celebration hosted by a university. The event aimed to promote cultural appreciation and unity among students and staff. We played to a warm, diverse audience that was incredibly receptive and supportive. One highlight of the evening was our rendition of the Marc Anthony classic Vivir Mi Vida, which had everyone clapping and dancing along. It was a beautiful reminder of how music transcends boundaries and brings people together.  Here is an excerpt of our playing “Vivi Mi Vida.”

Personal Reflections and Lessons Learned

Playing with Salsa Libre was an incredible learning experience. Salsa music, with its intricate rhythms and rich cultural background, requires both technical precision and deep respect for its traditions. These gigs were not just performances—they were opportunities to grow as a musician and connect with new audiences.

One of the key takeaways from these experiences was the importance of preparation. The hours spent practicing and internalizing the rhythmic feel of salsa paid off, allowing me to perform confidently and contribute meaningfully to the group. I also gained a deeper appreciation for adaptability. Each performance presented its own challenges—from ensemble size to venue acoustics—and being able to adjust my playing accordingly was essential.

Above all, the joy of performing with such talented musicians was unparalleled. The camaraderie, energy, and shared love of music created a wonderful sense of unity both onstage and off. Experiences like these remind me why I love being a musician: the collaboration, the creativity, and the sheer joy of making music with others.

Conclusion

Playing with Salsa Libre across these three events was an enriching journey that pushed me outside my comfort zone and deepened my understanding of Latin music. The energy of the performances, the warmth of the audiences, and the thrill of collaborating with exceptional musicians made each experience unforgettable. As I continue exploring new genres and styles, I carry these lessons with me—striving always for authenticity, openness, and passion in every performance.

Here’s to more musical adventures and the endless joy of creating live music!