The Mexican Cultural Center and the Colorado Symphony are excited to present the ninth edition of Latin Beats: Sonidos de las Américas on Thursday, September 25, at 7:00 p.m. at Boettcher Concert Hall. This free concert, a signature event of Denver’s Hispanic Heritage Month, brings the community together for an evening of music and dance inspired by the rich traditions of Latin America. This year’s program shines a spotlight on Afro-Mexican culture and rhythms.
Attendees will be immersed in the rich sounds of Mexico, from vibrant folk melodies and heartfelt rancheras to moving operatic selections that showcase the country’s diverse musical heritage — all brought to life by an extraordinary roster of guest performers. Featured artists include Denver’s own Mariachi Sol de Mi Tierra, the region’s premier mariachi ensemble known for their authentic and energetic sound; soprano Alicia Irigoyen Herch, celebrated for her powerful voice and expressive artistry; a special joint performance by El Sistema Colorado — a youth music program transforming lives through classical training and performance — and Centro Educativo Musical Tomza (CEMUT) from Juárez, Mexico, recognized for nurturing young talent and preserving regional traditions; and the dazzling folkloric dance troupe ArtistiCO, acclaimed for bringing Mexican heritage to life through movement and storytelling.
The evening will also feature the Colorado Symphony Association Chorus and Percussionists, adding their signature power and depth to the program. Guests will also enjoy a special pre-concert lobby performance by El Sistema Colorado.
This year’s concert features a special collaboration with the Consulate General of Mexico in Denver, highlighting Yanga by acclaimed Mexican composer Gabriela Ortiz. Premiered in 2019 at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, this striking orchestral work is inspired by Gaspar Yanga, a 16th-century African prince who was enslaved in Mexico and went on to lead a successful revolt, founding the first free Black settlement in the Americas. Through bold, evocative soundscapes, Ortiz honors Yanga’s legacy and explores themes of resistance, resilience, and the enduring fight for freedom.
“Latin Beats 2025 is a celebration of our shared heritage, honoring Latino traditions through music and, as always, highlighting the richness of Mexican culture,” says Rachel Garcia, Executive Director of the Mexican Cultural Center. “This year, we are thrilled to feature incredible artists and diverse talents, with a special spotlight on Afro-Mexican heritage through Gabriela Ortiz’s powerful composition, Yanga.”
“Latin Beats has always been a celebration of the rich diversity of Latin American music, and this year we’re especially proud to highlight the Afro-Mexican story through Gabriela Ortiz’s powerful work Yanga,” said Tony Pierce, Chief Artistic Officer for the Colorado Symphony. “Our longstanding collaboration with the Mexican Cultural Center makes this concert a true community celebration, and we’re thrilled to once again partner with El Sistema Colorado to inspire the next generation of musicians and audiences through this vibrant program.”
Free tickets will be available beginning Thursday, September 11, at the Boettcher Concert Hall Box Office. Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.; Saturday, 12:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Tickets are required for entry but do not guarantee seating. All seats are first-come, first-served.
ABOUT THE COLORADO SYMPHONY:
The Colorado Symphony, led by Principal Conductor Peter Oundjian, is a not-for-profit organization performing over 150 concerts annually. For more information, visit coloradosymphony.org.
ABOUT THE MEXICAN CULTURAL CENTER:
Founded in 1992, the Mexican Cultural Center promotes Mexican culture in Colorado through partnerships with cultural and educational institutions. For more information, visit www.mccdenver.org or call 303-331-0172.
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