PUTNEY, Vt. – Next Stage Arts and Twilight Music present Las Guaracheras, an electrifying all-female salsa sextet from Cali, Colombia, on Sunday, July 5, at 6 p.m., at Cooper Field, 41 Sand Hill Road in Putney. Gates open at 5 p.m. Food will be available from Saffron Restaurant.
Rooted in the rich musical traditions of Cali – widely regarded as a global capital of salsa – Las Guaracheras have been redefining the genre since their formation in 2017. The six musicians blend Afro-Caribbean rhythms with influences from Colombia’s Pacific coast, creating a vibrant and contemporary sound that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly forward-looking.
The group’s distinctive instrumentation features percussion, piano, bass, vocals, and the rarely spotlighted vibraphone. Their performances are fueled by improvisation, giving each musician the opportunity to shine as both soloist and collaborator. Drawing inspiration from Latin jazz while remaining firmly grounded in salsa, Las Guaracheras create a dynamic musical conversation that evolves from song to song.
Beyond their musical virtuosity, Las Guaracheras are committed to amplifying women’s voices in a genre historically dominated by men. Through original compositions and inventive arrangements, they explore themes of resilience, identity, unity, and empowerment. “We are strength, unity, love, sisterhood, music,” the band says. “We are Guaracheras.”
“Within the stereotypes of what is conceived as ‘Latino,’ where physicality is often emphasized, Las Guaracheras make a statement through what we feel in our music, our instruments, and our sound,” the group explains. Their songs celebrate the contributions of women to Latin music while offering a fresh perspective on both its lyrical and sonic traditions.
Las Guaracheras have performed at festivals and venues throughout Latin America and North America, earning acclaim for high-energy shows that combine sophisticated musicianship with joyful audience engagement. Whether delivering driving salsa grooves or exploring jazz-inflected improvisations, the band invites audiences into a celebratory experience where every beat carries the spirit of community, creativity, and connection.
Tickets can be purchased discounted in advance, or at the gate. Children younger than 12 enter for free. Advance tickets and information are available at www.nextstagearts.org.