THIS FRIDAY (7/10) ǀ Sammy DeLeón Y Su Orquesta

One of the most recognized Latin bandleaders in Ohio, Sammy DeLeòn is a timbale player—performing professionally since he was just 13 years old. At this young age, Sammy was not only introduced to the greats of his instrument, but he was also performing with them too. The eighth child of a large Puerto Rican family (thirteen children all together), DeLeòn grew up in a family with no professional musicians—just parents that enjoyed the musical styling of Puerto Rico. His older brother, Robert, became responsible for introducing Sammy to his timbales, a twin set of metal-encased drums that includes a cowbell and cymbal on the side. His other brother also began taking up percussion and is currently a successful percussionist and band leader in Kansas City, Missouri.

Featuring his 12-piece ensemble, Sammy has gained popularity for his danceable groove-oriented music in the styles of Latin jazz, salsa, and merengue for nearly 30 years. Once called the “hottest and most innovative timbalero” by legendary Latin jazz percussionist Tito Puente, Sammy’s credits include collaborations with salsa greats El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico, Tito Rojas, Tony Vega, Hector Tricoche and Rey de la Paz, among others.

Fronting his Sammy DeLeòn Y Su Orquesta for the past decade, the group has grown to become one of the best multi-cultural musical groups in the area. With an extensive discography, Sammy is sure to provide Columbus with endless toe-tapping, hip-shaking, groove oriented music.

Before the performance, sign up to join Mayor Michael B. Coleman and fellow cyclists for an evening bike ride through the heart of Columbus promoting the benefits of active living. This unique tour takes riders through the vibrant downtown area, with views of parks, city landmarks and a wide variety of architecture in scenic neighborhoods. Proceeds from the Mayor’s Twilight Bike Ride Finale will help to fund bikes and helmets for kids in need and support bicycle safety initiatives. The Mayor’s Twilight Bike Ride Finale will be begin on the Rich Street Bridge and return to Bicentennial Park where participants can enjoy the Rhythm on the River performance by Sammy DeLeón Y Su Orquesta.

For more information or to register for the Mayor’s Twilight Bike Ride Finale, please visit http://www.m3ssports.com/events/mayors-twilight-ride.htm

EVENING SCHEDULE:
6:30 p.m. – Mayor’s Twilight Bike Ride Finale begins
6:30 p.m. – Food and beverage sales begin
7:30 p.m. – Performance