Mankato — The Mankato Symphony Orchestra launches the first subscription concert of its 75th Anniversary Season with Latin Pulse, a high-energy orchestral celebration of Latin music, passion, and pride. The performance takes place Saturday, October 18 at 7:00 PM at the Kato Ballroom.

Audiences will be swept away by the sultry tango of Astor Piazzolla’s Cuatro Estaciones Porteñas, featuring dazzling violin solos by MSO Concertmaster Sabrina Tabby. The program also showcases the bold colors of Arturo Márquez’s Danzón No. 8, the spirited sounds of Juan Pablo Contreras’s Mariachitlán, the rhythmic vitality of José Asunción Flores’s Gallito Cantor, and the contemporary brilliance of Horacio Fernández Vázquez’s Tumbao a Latin Suite.

The evening will be conducted by Ernesto Estigarribia Mussi, MSO’s Music Director, who leads the orchestra into a milestone season of unforgettable performances.

More than just a concert, Latin Pulse is a full cultural celebration:

• Food trucks (El Mexicano and Delicious Pupusas) will be serving authentic flavors beginning at 5:30 PM.
• The bar at Kato Ballroom will be open for drinks throughout the evening.
• A live auction led by celebrity auctioneer Ben Findley will take place at intermission.
• Young audience members will be invited to sit side-by-side with MSO musicians for a thrilling, up-close view of the orchestra in action.

As part of its commitment to building bridges through music, the MSO is proud to partner with Mankato’s Old Town Day of the Dead Festival, taking place the following Saturday, October 25 on Riverfront Drive. This collaboration celebrates the richness of Latin American traditions both on stage and in the heart of the community.

“From fiery dance rhythms to sweeping symphonic landscapes, this program pulses with energy, passion, and cultural pride,” says Estigarribia. “We are thrilled to join with Mankato’s Day of the Dead Festival to honor Latin American heritage through both music and community celebration.”

VIVA LA MÚSICA! VIVA LA MÚSICA!

Visit www.mankatosymphony.org for tickets, travel details, and donation opportunities. Let the celebration begin!

About the Mankato Symphony Orchestra:

Founded in 1950, the MSO presents orchestral and chamber music of the highest caliber to Southern Minnesota. Under the leadership of Music Director Ernesto Estigarribia Mussi and Executive Director Bethel Balge, the orchestra continues to inspire audiences of all ages through performances, education, and community outreach.