Line-Up

No conversation about the golden era of salsa is complete without Tito Allen. Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico and rooted in New York, he became the voice Indestructible with Ray Barretto in 1973, widely regarded as one of the defining albums of salsa’s golden age. As lead singer for Ray Barretto, Típica 73, Louie Ramirez and Tito Puente, and through collaborations with artists like Cheo Feliciano, Willie Rosario, and the Fania All Stars, El Elegante de la Salsa stood at the centre of the era. His refined style and silky voice secured him a place in salsa history. His live appearances today are rare.

Tiahuanaco. Mambo Rock. If you know, you know what Alfredo “Sabor” Linares represents. Born in Lima, Peru and trained at the National Conservatory of Music from the age of ten, he arrived in Cali in the early 1970s as salsa was defining its identity and became part of its foundation. Pianist, composer, arranger, and bandleader, Linares is regarded as one of the key architects of the Latin American salsa tradition, with a musical influence that runs deep through its history.

Based in Medellín, Colombia, Manu Russi ia a leading salsa DJ known for her dynamic and danceable sets. Manu Russi represents the new generation of salsa DJs, specializing in salsa dura, a hard-hitting, traditional style of salsa music. She plays vinyl only, giving her sets an authentic and raw sound. Having already won over a wide international public, she graces stages alongside world-class salsa bands.

Founded in 2008 in Italy by Argentine musician Mariano Speranza, Tango Spleen Orquesta has become a well-established ensemble that, over the years, has welcomed numerous artists and become a key reference in the style and language of tango. With hundreds of performances in over twenty-five countries, Tango Spleen Orquesta has established itself on the international stage. The ensemble is one of the most sought-after orchestras in international Tango Festivals, where their music thrills hundreds of dancers from all over the world. Thanks to the artistic sensitivity, the high-level musical training of its members, and the brilliant arrangements by Mariano Speranza, Tango Spleen Orquesta has fostered prestigious international collaborations in the world of music and dance.

Ask any serious dancer about Lo Que Dice Justi, and they know exactly who you mean. Born in Salinas, Puerto Rico and raised in New York, El Sonero del Barrio built his reputation in some of the most respected salsa orchestras, from Wayne Gorbea’s Conjunto Salsa to Manny Oquendo’s Conjunto Libre, where he became lead singer in 1990. Widely regarded as one of the finest exponents of classic salsa dura performing today, Frankie Vázquez has turned improvisation into a defining art form.

Andrea Vighi and Chiara Benati are among the most respected and sought-after tango couples on the international stage. Their breathtaking performances are one of the highlights of the festival, offering an unforgettable experience for every tango or dance enthusiast.