Plena Libre captured Puerto Rico's imagination and interest right from its inception in 1994. Their music became so popular, that it inspired the introduction of the genre, which up to that point, had been considered basically folkloric. Now this band, led by Gary Nuñez, is topping the charts in Puerto Rico with one hit after another.
The group's appeal stems from their innovative interpretation of the plena genre. Plena Libre has taken the plena - the folk music of Puerto Rico - and injected it with sizzling contemporary dance floor arrangements by fusing it with salsa and other Caribbean rhythms.
In 1996, Plena Libre made their way into the mainstream theatres when they began to play large venues such as Puerto Rico's University Theater. The group was the first of its kind to have their own show at the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, where they were joined by other prominent Puerto Rican artists including Andy Montañez, Melina León, Domingo Quiñones and Son by Four in the production "Puerto Rico sabe a Plena."
Among the rhythms originated in Puerto Rico, the "plena" is the most dynamic in its expression and the signature sound of the group is a combination of brilliant arrangements, jazzy trombone-powered harmonies and the compelling, up-tempo drive of the panderetas - the tambourine -like instruments that are at the heart of the plena. With great musical sense, Nuñez has adapted the ringing playfulness of the drummers to modern times without sacrificing the roots.
Plena Libre will present a free lecture/demonstration, open to the public, in the Rose Lehrman Arts Center Theatre on Thursday, October 23, at 12:30 pm. This program will include a discussion of the history, styles and instruments of the plena. It will feature background on Puerto Rico's music history and styles of Caribbean music.
The Performing Artist Series Office in partnership with the Harrisburg YWCA will host members from Plena Libre in a meet and greet the artist reception on Wednesday, October 22 from 7:30-9PM. The reception will take place in the Highmark Room of the YWCA, located at 1101 Market Street and there is free parking on site.
Tickets for the performance on October 23 at 7:30PM in the Rose Lehrman Arts Center Theatre are $25 for adults and $17 for students and senior citizens. Tickets may be purchased by calling the Box Office at (717) 231-ROSE (7673). Visit the Performing Artist Series online by clicking the Website link below.