Friday, May 22 @ 6:00 pm
St. Nicholas Park: St Nicholas Ave &, W 135th St, New York, NY 10030
Santiago y La Orquesta is a dynamic contemporary salsa ensemble led by Colombian vocalist, arranger, and musical director Santiago “Sachy” Moyano. Blending classic salsa, Afro-Colombian rhythms, and jazz-inflected arrangements, the group brings fresh energy to the orquesta tradition while honoring the roots of Afro-Latin music. Their music channels the spirit of golden-era salsa while embracing original compositions, improvisation, and contemporary influences.
With performances at festivals and venues across New York, Santiago y La Orquesta has earned recognition for celebrating rhythm, community, and cultural connection. Rooted in the Afro-Latin diaspora, the ensemble creates joyful, high-energy music that bridges tradition and innovation while keeping the enduring spirit of salsa alive.
Santiago “Sachy” Moyano is a lead singer, multi-instrumentalist, and musical director with over 20 years of experience in the Latin music industry. Originally from Colombia and now based in New York City, he is recognized for his powerful voice, commanding stage presence, and innovative approach to salsa. Trained in composition and arranging at the Universidad Incca de Colombia, and with extensive studies in music theory and piano, Santiago blends deep musical knowledge with a fresh, modern sound. In 2025, Santiago launched his flagship project Santiago y La Orquesta, debuting with the single Salsa y Ritmo, co-produced by multi-Grammy winner Luis “Luisito” Quintero. This release marks a new chapter in his career, combining traditional salsa energy with contemporary arrangements designed for global audiences. Previously, Santiago was the lead vocalist for Sonora Carruseles, one of the world’s most iconic salsa orchestras, performing at major festivals such as Salsa Fest Veracruz (2022 & 2024) to crowds of over half a million people, sharing the stage with Rubén Blades, Guayacán Orquesta, Jerry Rivera, and Tromboranga.
He has also toured internationally with Fruko y sus Tesos, performing alongside his father, renowned percussionist Luis Moyano, in major U.S. arenas like the Prudential Center. His versatility has brought him into diverse collaborations, including projects with Tony Succar (Más de Mi), Jaime Lozano (Lincoln Center’s “Bailamos”), English artist Geordie Greep, and Dickey Betts’ Great Southern Group. Santiago has worked with salsa legends such as Óscar D’León, Richie Ray, Bobby Cruz, Robert Vilera, Luisito Carrión, and Cheo Andújar, contributing to both live shows and studio recordings. Internationally, his career spans tours across the Americas, Europe, and the Caribbean, with standout performances in France, Spain, and the United States.
He has appeared at Bryant Park’s Dance Party: Greatest Salsa Hits of All-Time, the Festival Colombiano del Aguardiente Blanco, and Berklee College of Music’s salsa showcase, representing modern salsa at some of the most prestigious cultural stages. Currently, Santiago y La Orquesta continues to perform live in New York and beyond, while he works on his first full-length album — a project set to further define his unique style and bring the vibrant pulse of salsa to audiences worldwide.
The West Harlem Jazz Festival:
The 4th Annual West Harlem SUMMER Jazz Festival 2026 are FREE Live Outdoor Concerts presented at West Harlem Parks and in collaboration with NYC Parks, Harlem Late Night Jazz, and in curatorial association with The National Jazz Museum in Harlem, IAMCHELSEAIAM, Taller Latino Americano, Northern Manhattan Arts Alliance/NoMAA, Montefiore Park Neighborhood Association, Friends of St. Nicholas Park and Morningside Park. For the full schedule, click HERE.
Funding for the summer long presentation of free outdoor Jazz in West Harlem Parks comes from the West Harlem Development Corporation, and District 7 Council Member Shaun Abreu.
We are your go-to venue for off-site meetings, receptions, film screenings, workshops, networking events, socials and more. Located in the heart of Central Harlem’s thriving culinary and entertainment district, The National Jazz Museum in Harlem is the perfect place to hold your next gathering.