Orquesta Alto Maiz
"The Salsa Band"
Click on a band member's mug to view the sordid details of his life
(most) photos by Linda Diment
"If your body doesn't move when you hear these guys, you should check your pulse to see if you're alive."
--Victor Mendoza
Recording Artist/Yamaha Clinician/Berklee College Professor
"...elements that make this band such a blast: live exuberance, exceptional playing, sweaty Latin material, and unrelenting rhythm."
--Patrick Beach, Des Moines Register
"...truly unique ensemble that brings together the best of Latin American and Caribbean music with the best elements of jazz music. The result is a brand of music so irresistible your feet won't stay still."
--Iowa Arts Council
Orquesta Alto Maiz is something of a musical enigma. It is a popular eleven-piece Latin-jazz-dance band made up of musicians now living in the "heartland" of America. The Latin tinged music they perform, usually found in the clubs of New York City, L.A. or Miami, has secured them a reputation as one of the hottest bands in the Midwest.
This strange mix of "salsa" and tall corn works because of the years of musical experience the band members bring to the group, and because of their love for the music. Alto Maiz has been performing regionally and internationally since 1986 and has steadily built a strong base of Latin music fans and supporters wherever they've played.
Orquesta Alto Maiz plays a wide range of Latin musical styles, including merengue, samba, cha-cha-cha, salsa, calypso, and boleros. In addition to Latin-jazz standards by Tito Puente, Ray Barretto, Eddie Palmieri, Ismael Miranda, Mario Bauzá, Poncho Sanchez and others, the band has produced many successful original compositions as well. Alto Maiz has recorded much of this music, producing two cassette tapes; Puerto de Tierra (1989), Casa del Fuego (1991), and seven compact discs; Dancing in the Corn (1993), Azucar Caliente (1995), Década (1997), Live at Montreux (1999), Añejando (2001), Ritmo en Azul (2004), and their latest, Veinte (2006).
Regardless of age group or musical preferences, Orquesta Alto Maiz strikes a common chord with its audience. Once exposed to this vibrant, pulsating music, people find it so irresistible their feet won't keep still! Audience participation (dancing, singing) is encouraged. And remember, dancing is good for you and dancing like no one is watching is even better. Once you experience them you will never forget them, Orquesta Alto Maiz, "The Salsa Band."
Orquesta Alto Maiz has much to offer any event where exciting and enticing music is needed. All their recordings, plus T-shirts and posters are now available for sale.
To book Alto Maiz, contact
