Kadencia Orchestra Live at The Southern

The UVA Latin American Studies Program is proud to present a high-energy performance by the award-winning Afro-Puerto Rican ensemble Kadencia Orchestra on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at The Southern Café and Music Hall. Led by the father-son duo of Maurice Sanabria-Ortiz and Maurice “Tito” Sanabria, the Richmond-based orchestra is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich traditions of Afro-Puerto Rican music. Known for their infectious rhythms and powerful brass section, Kadencia specializes in original Bomba, Plena, and Salsa. Their performances are not only a celebration of Caribbean culture but also a narrative experience, featuring lyrics that describe the social and cultural history of Puerto Rico. "Our mission is to make you dance and have a great time while learning about the culture and music of Puerto Rico," says founder Maurice Sanabria-Ortiz. The band has earned international acclaim, with their album En Otro Barrio recognized as one of the Top 20 albums of 2022 by Puerto Rico’s National Foundation for Popular Culture.