Scotch Plains Public Library has rescheduled its launch of the community’s Big Read program, postponed due to Superstorm Sandy, for Thursday, January 10 at 7:00 PM at Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School.
The library and its Big Read partners have planned a kickoff program of Latin American music performed by Tropyband Orquesta because the book chosen for this Big Read, In the Time of the Butterflies, by Julia Alvarez, is set in the Dominican Republic. Scotch Plains Public Library’s Big Read partners include Scotch Plains-Fanwood Schools, Literacy Volunteers of Union County, Inc., New Jersey City University, and the Friends of Scotch Plains Public Library. Interested people in all communities are encouraged to take part in the many activities this Big Read will offer.
Tropyband Orquesta is a 14-piece Latin music ensemble, complete with vocalists. The band, comprised of professional musicians and students from New Jersey City University, will entertain the audience with merengue, salsa and more music of the Caribbean and Latin America. A dance space will be provided for audience members who wish to move with the music. Manager Jairo Bernal is enthusiastic about what makes his band unique, “We started in 1996 with guitars and a keyboard and have expanded ever since to 10, 12 or 14 performers, depending on the venue. Recently we performed for over 8,000 spectators at the Elizabeth Colombian Festival. What makes us unique is that we play many kinds of music – salsa, cumbia, merengue, bolero, bachata, to name just a few. When we visit Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School, we will introduce our songs and speak a little about the various styles to our audience, in addition to playing.” Aspiring musicians and music afficionados are welcome to meet the band after the performance.
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Scotch Plains-Fanwood High School is located at 667 Westfield Road in Scotch Plains. No registration is required for this free concert. Please call Scotch Plains Public Library for driving directions and further information.
