Manuel Torres

I was born in Lima, Peru. Like many other people from Latin America, I grew up surrounded by folk music of the Andes, creole folklore, and salsa. Salsa was the most popular music played at every type of celebration that I have attended, and everytime I have felt my blood rush when I dance it.

As well we know, the roots of salsa are found in the music of Africa. Those interpreters of this music who have motivated me the most are Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, La Sonora Matancera, Oscar de Leon, etc. They are the ones who play from their hearts and now we feel their music in our hearts.

One of the things that comes from the nights when we all get together and dance is that we form a group with a positive essence. It is this positive atmosphere that helps us to improve different aspects of our own lives, one that teaches us to listen and also permits us to express with confidence our ideas and perceptions.

I would like to close in congratulating Erin and Yang and everyone who works with them in making the fabulous Latin nights on Wednesdays at Red Room and Saturdays at Blue Cactus a reality, and also for the abundance of information they provide through INtoSalsa on the internet.