Charanga Agozá

About

Charanga Agoza, a charanga ensemble based in Madison, Wisconsin, was formed in 2009. The group plays charanga, a dance oriented musical genre that originated in Cuba at the turn of the twentieth century and peaked in the 1950s. Charangas also became popular in New York City during the genesis of the salsa movement in the 60s and 70s. Musical styles featured in Charanga Agoza’s repertoire include the danzón, the chachachá, the mambo, and some modern day salsa played charanga style.

The 9 to 11-member group consists of Amber Dolphin on violin, Jessie Mitchell on flute, Yanzel Rivera on vocals, Paul Muench on piano, John Mesoloras on double bass, Brian Whitty on trombone, Alfredo Rodriguez on congas, Roberto Rengel/Willie Garcia on timbales, and José Madera on percussion. With optional double violins and trombones adding Jon Vriesacker and Jamie Kember, respectively.