Morning tech and coffee
2026-04-16 08:30 - 09:30, 2026-04-23 08:30 - 09:30 (America/Halifax) | NYC Bagel And Coffee House, 29-10 Broadway, Astoria, NY, 11106, US
Hi neighbors! Let’s gather together, share ideas, and talk tech.
Since a lot of us are in permanent WFH mode, we thought it would be nice to have a reason to leave our apartments in the morning and interact with real live friendly faces in our neighborhood.
This is a host-free event with no specific agenda. Let’s meet up and chat in the morning:

What are you working on?
What tech are you learning?
What tech questions do you have?
Would you like some accountability to help you push ahead?
… and more!

Be sure to be respectful of our gathering place: purchase a coffee, tip your baristas, keep the place clean, etc.
Looking forward to seeing you!!

Helio Alves Trio - Brazilian Jazz
2026-04-16 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Led by Brazilian pianist Helio Alves, the trio brings together Brazilian rhythm and contemporary jazz with clarity and depth. Rooted in decades of performance and collaboration, Alves shapes a sound that is melodic, grounded, and rhythmically nuanced.
Admission: $20: Cover at Mezzanine.
7:30 pm to 8:30 pm (First Set)
9:30 PM – 10:30 PM (Second Set)
Featuring:
Hamish Smith / Bass
Ronen Itzik / Drums
Helio Alves / Piano; arrangements and compositions
About Helio Alves
Born in São Paulo, Brazil, pianist Helio Alves skillfully blends the intricate rhythms of Brazilian music with the bold intensity of contemporary jazz. Since relocating to New York City in the 1990s, Alves has earned acclaim as a sought-after sideman, performing alongside renowned artists such as Joe Henderson, Yo-Yo Ma, Sadao Watanabe, Slide Hampton, Airto Moreira & Flora Purim, Paquito D’Rivera, Joyce, and Rosa Passos, among others.
Alves has released four solo albums, showcasing his versatile piano skills: “Trios” (1998), “Portrait in Black & White” (2004), “It’s Clear” (2009), and “Musica” (date), featuring collaborations with Antonio Sanchez, Reuben Rogers, Claudio Roditi, and Romero Lubambo.
Explore the world of Brazilian jazz piano through Helio’s online course, “Brazilian Jazz Piano.” Don’t miss his latest album, “At Play,” a vibrant collaboration with Romero Lubambo, Reuben Rogers, and Edu Ribeiro, available now. Discover more and get your copy at www.openstudiojazz.com.
Also, delve into the captivating sounds of “Águas Brasileiras,” the new release from The Brazilian Trio, featuring Helio Alves, Nilson Matta, and Duduka Da Fonseca. This album is available now on Zoho Music. For more information, visit www.braziliantriomusic.net.

Zumba For All! (In Spanish)
2026-04-17 15:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-24 15:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Queens Public Library at Jackson Heights, 35-51 81st St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA
¡Zumba para todos!
English: Zumba is a fitness program that involves cardio and Latin-inspired dance, with rhythms from around the world! Get fit, stay fit, and have fun with the whole class as one team!
Participants should consult with their physicians before undertaking any exercise, nutrition, or health-improvement program.
Spanish: Zumba es un programa de acondicionamiento físico que incluye ejercicios cardiovasculares y bailes de inspiración latina, ¡con ritmos de todo el mundo! ¡Pongase en forma, mantengase en forma y diviértase con el grupo como un equipo!
Los participantes deben consultar con sus médicos antes de emprender cualquier programa de ejercicio, nutrición o mejora de la salud.
(718) 899-2500
AUDIENCE
Adults, Seniors

Innovation Stations: Adventures In Architecture
2026-04-17 16:00 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | Queens Public Library at Jackson Heights, 35-51 81st St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA
Young people explore a wide range of engaging topics in this program. Participants can investigate these topics in stand-alone workshops or in an in-depth series. In addition, ArchForKids educators can develop new workshops based on your needs, interests and curriculum.
This program is funded by Amazon.
(718) 899-2500
AUDIENCE
Teens

Maria Raquel Quintet -Salsa
2026-04-17 20:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Maria Raquel, the dynamic lead singer of a New York-based salsa band, brings her Colombian roots and a lifelong passion for music to every performance. Her vibrant and soulful voice, shaped by a rich musical heritage, captivates audiences with the rhythm and spirit of salsa.
Admission: $20: Cover charge for mezzanine.
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm (First Set)
10:30 pm to 11:30 pm (Second Set)
Featuring:
Maria Raquel / Vocals
Ben Romanov / Trombon
Pablo Bencid / Drums
Cesar Orozco / Piano
Mathew Gonzalez / Percusion
About Maria Raquel:
The bilingual singer and songwriter was born in Medellin, Colombia where she lived until 2016 when she moved to New York where she currently resides. She comes from a very musical family; her mother studied piano and always encouraged her love for music. In her extended family she has several amateur musicians: accordion players, guitarists, pianists, bassists and more.
“For as long as I can remember music has been part of my life. In my earliest memories I am always listening to music, dancing and singing all kinds of genres. From the time I learned to write I would sit and listen to music and transcribe the lyrics to learn and sing them from beginning to end. I would also compose, in my childish language, songs that I would put to music in my head.” ~Maria Raquel

Casual 3ish Mile Saturday Morning Run
2026-04-18 08:30 - 09:30, 2026-04-25 08:30 - 09:30 (America/Halifax) | Woodside Avenue & 54th Street, Queens, NY, 11377, US
Join us for a casual 3ish-mile run in the neighborhood. All paces are welcome as long as you can complete the distance. We meet at the bottom of the Windmuller Park stairs, at 54th Street and Woodside Avenue.
We will wait 5-10 minutes to allow for late arrivals. Please be prompt!
We often get coffee after our runs, so you may want to bring some cash or a card.
The route:
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/45243994

***
Runners attending WSR events assume full personal responsibility for any injury or illness that may occur during or after participation. WSR assumes no responsibility for the health and safety of any attendee.
***
Please see our full calendar of events
http://www.woodsidesunnysiderunners.com/events/calendar/
join our Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wsrunners/
like us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/WoodsideSunnysideRunners
check out our Strava group
https://www.strava.com/clubs/206158
follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/woodsidesunnysiderunners/
and find these links and more on Link Tree
https://linktr.ee/woodsidesunnysiderunners

2026 NY Youth Leadership Summit
2026-04-18 13:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Helen Marshall Cultural Center, 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Queens, NY 11415, Queens, NY, 11415, US
Join us at the 2026 YLS: Donate to student clubs & non-profit to reserve a spot!

What is YLS (Youth Leadership Summit)?
The USA Youth Leadership Summit is an annual, student-led event that fosters youth leadership and networking among student clubs, young entrepreneurs, educators, and community organizations.

Why should you attend?

Explore high-impact student projects across AI, STEM, healthcare, and education
Learn directly from Former Admissions Officers on what top colleges really look for
Connect with Ivy+ alumni, nonprofit leaders, and industry professionals
On-site club recruitment — join organizations aligned with your interests
This is not just an event to watch: It’s where you find direction — and take your next step

Unmatched Media Exposure: We’re bringing in the heavy hitters.

Mainstream Buzz: Your students will be part of an event featured on Business Insider, Yahoo News, and MSN.
200+ Media Outlets: From FOX to ABC, our reach spans across the entire North American media landscape.
The Spotlight is On: With live press coverage and on-site interviews, your students have the chance to be the face of the next generation of leadership.

MONECO — Psychedelic Peruvian Chicha
2026-04-18 21:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
MONECO returns to energize the New York Neo-Cumbia scene. Their blend of Chicha, Cumbia, and Rock makes every show a vibrant event with dynamic performances and infectious rhythms.
09:00 pm to 10:00 pm (First Set)
11:00 PM – 11:55 PM (Second Set)
Admission: $20 Cover Charge for Mezzanine
Featuring:
Eric Kurimski / Guitar
Domingo Lemus / Vocals
Yayo Serka / Drums
Dan Martinez / Bass
George Saenz / Keys
Joshua Camp / Accordion
About MONECO:
MONECO is set to make a grand return in July 2024 after a seven-year hiatus, bringing their vibrant blend of Chicha, Cumbia, and Rock back to the New York Neo-Cumbia scene. Known for their aggressive sound and engaging stage presence, MONECO quickly captured audiences with their eclectic repertoire, which spans Chicha classics, adapted Rock and Pop hits, and original compositions. Their infectious rhythms consistently transform every performance into a lively event.
The band’s diverse lineup contributes significantly to their unique sound. Eric Kurimski, dedicated to Peruvian music, showcases his blazing guitar skills while also performing with Eva Ayllón. Carlos Rienzo’s charismatic vocals add depth to their performances. Yayo Serka, an accomplished drummer and percussionist, brings his expertise as a composer and arranger, frequently touring with artists like Lila Downs and Claudia Acuña, and producing local acts such as Los Chamanes. Dan Martinez on bass completes the ensemble with his skillful playing.
MONECO’s return promises to reignite the passion of their fans and introduce their dynamic sound to new audiences. The band’s ability to blend various musical styles and cultural influences creates a unique and vibrant musical experience, making each show an unforgettable event.

Introduction to Microsoft Word
2026-04-21 10:45 - 11:30 (America/New_York) | Queens Public Library at Jackson Heights, 35-51 81st St, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA
Learn the basic skills in Microsoft Word, and gain hands-on experience creating, formatting, and saving documents.
(718) 899-2500
AUDIENCE
Adults, Kids(0-5), Kids(6-11), Seniors, Teens

Tuesday Evening 3.5-Mile Run
2026-04-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | Woodside Avenue & 54th Street, Queens, NY, 11377, US
Join us for a casual 3.5-mile loop between Woodside, Sunnyside, LIC, and Astoria! All paces are welcome as long as you can complete the distance.
We will wait up to 5 minutes to allow for late arrivals. Please be prompt!
We sometimes go to a bar, restaurant, or coffee shop after our runs, so you may want to bring cash or a card.
The route: https://footpathapp.com/routes/tuesday-night/7e834353-18a5-4fc0-82b0-b149845d68fc
**************************
Runners attending WSR events assume full personal responsibility for any injury or illness that may occur during or after participation. WSR assumes no responsibility for the health and safety of any attendee.

Please see our full calendar of events
http://www.woodsidesunnysiderunners.com/events/calendar/
join our Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wsrunners/
like us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/WoodsideSunnysideRunners
check out our Strava group
https://www.strava.com/clubs/206158
follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/woodsidesunnysiderunners/
and find these links and more on Link Tree
https://linktr.ee/woodsidesunnysiderunners

Queens Chamber of Commerce New Member Orientation
2026-04-22 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Queens Chamber of Commerce, 75-20 Astoria Blvd S Suite 140, East Elmhurst, NY 11370, USA
The Queens Chamber of Commerce is committed to maximizing your Membership. If you’re a new member and have yet to participate in an orientation, please register to join us in person.
Over the course of orientation we’ll:

Get to Know You

You’ll have an opportunity to share a little about who you are, your organization, and what you hope to gain from being a member at Queens Chamber. Whether it’s increasing your professional network, looking for new ways to market your business and of course exploring opportunities for business growth. We’re here for all of it.

Discuss Contacts and Connections

One of the numerous resources available is the ability to meet new contacts and make connections to individuals to move our business forward. You’ll hear first-hand how to tap into this resource.

Explore Committee Participation

Queens Chamber currently has 13 active committees representing the most relevant business sectors in the borough. Each committee is comprised of co-chairs and a working group who meet regularly to create content designed to educate our Queens community. We’ll share how you can impact programming by becoming a knowledge expert representing the your industry.
Space is limited. Register now!
Members Only!

Queens Distance Runners: Jackson Heights Community Run @ Queensboro
2026-04-22 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | 80th St & Northern Blvd, Queens, NY 11372, USA
The Meetup is 6:30PM opposite The Queensboro. We wait until 6:35PM, take our Weekly Photo at the mural, then head off for our beautiful 5K route.
Route: Down 34th Avenue to 69th, return and head all the way to PS 149 for 2 loops, returning all the way back on 34th ending at Travers Park for your 5K.

Eric Stern’s Cuban Jazz Project
2026-04-22 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
A vibrant fusion of Cuban timba and American jazz, this trio blends infectious dance rhythms with bold improvisation and harmonic depth, creating a fresh sound that honors both traditions while pushing them forward.
7:30 PM (First Set)
9:30 PM (Jam Session)
10:30 PM (Second Set)
Admission: $20 cover charge for mezzanine seating · $10 for jammers
Featuring:
Eric Stern – Piano
George Greenhill – Drums
John Benitez – Bass
About: Eric Stern’s Cuban Jazz Project:
It is a new trio. The project aims to seamlessly blend two genres of music – Cuban timba, the cuban dance music of Elito Reve, Alex Abreu, Los Van Van, and others, and American jazz, which Eric grew up with in Brooklyn – the music of Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker, Bud Powell, and the great American Songbook. By incorporating jazz improvisation and harmonic innovation into the format of a standard cuban timba band, never losing danceability or rhythmic sensibility, the project blends both timba and jazz into one music, honoring both traditions while moving the music forward, together.
About Eric Stern:
Eric Stern is a pianist and composer based in New York City. Eric plays a variety of genres of music, including latin jazz with John Benitez, salsa with Carabali, modern jazz with Noah Myers’ Sonder, hip-hop with Good Lives Crew, and straight-ahead jazz with a myriad of young artists. Eric’s ability to blend these influences seamlessly into any performance, while staying authentic to each genre, has allowed Eric to quickly establish himself as a rising star in the NYC music scene.

Roast Battle League NYC
2026-04-22 20:30 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | Grove 34 Comedy Club, 31-83 34th St, Astoria, NY 11106, USA
A curated lineup of New York’s best comedians competing in vicious insult battles affiliated with Jeff Ross and Brian Moses’ Roast Battle League.

"Shine The Light" Weekly Visibility Action
2026-04-23 18:00 - 18:30 (America/New_York) | Jackson Heights, Queens, NY, USA
Shine the Light with Jackson Heights Indivisible & The Beacon
Jackson Heights Indivisible is proud to join The Beacon’s growing national movement of people of all faiths and backgrounds taking a stand against injustice through visible acts of solidarity.
Every Thursday we gather in Jackson Heights for 30 minutes to shine a light for justice, compassion, and community.
Bring a bold, clear sign that reflects your values—
“Trans Rights Are Human Rights,” “I Love Immigrants,” “Read Banned Books,” or whatever message is on your heart.
Together, we’ll push back against fear and cruelty with hope, love, and organized compassion.

📸 What to do:

Make a sign
Show up and shine your light
Take a photo or video and share it
Email: beaconlightforce@gmail.com
Social media: Use the hashtag #BeaconShineTheLight

💻 Want to learn more?
Join The Beacon’s next Zoom gathering:
🕛 Monday at 12 p.m. ET
🔗 Register here

Thursday Evening 3-4 miles Plogging run
2026-04-23 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Halifax) | Skillman Avenue & 43rd Street, Queens, NY, 11104, US
As part of Earth Week Plogging initiative we’re partnering with other running clubs in Queens. Join us for 3-4 miles plogging run, we’ll be running and collecting trash. Gloves, trash bags and hand-sanitisers will be provided. Meeting at 7:00 PM. Let’s make Queens cleaner together!
We will wait up to 5 minutes to allow for late arrivals. Please be prompt!
We sometimes go to a bar, restaurant, or coffee shop after our runs, so you may want to bring some cash or a card.
The route:
https://www.strava.com/routes/3480233940091894258
***
Runners attending WSR events assume full personal responsibility for any injury or illness that may occur during or after participation. WSR assumes no responsibility for the health and safety of any attendee.
***
Please see our full calendar of events
http://www.woodsidesunnysiderunners.com/events/calendar/
join our Facebook group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/wsrunners/
like us on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/WoodsideSunnysideRunners
check out our Strava group
https://www.strava.com/clubs/206158
follow us on Instagram
https://instagram.com/woodsidesunnysiderunners/
and find these links and more on Link Tree
https://linktr.ee/woodsidesunnysiderunners

Puff & Paint Night - Pokémon Edition (BYOB/C & 21+)
2026-04-24 19:30 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Art Retail Therapy, 84-26 37th Ave, Jackson Heights, New York, 11372, United States
A Pokémon Chill Paint Night – Curated for relaxation & creative flow.

We provide all the materials, you just bring yourself and your favorite gardening materials and drink. In honor of the thrill of surprise offered by opening a card pack, we will have a blind box canvas trading time before settling in for a night of creativity in a cozy art space to relax in.
Bring the bestie or meet one here! Our aim is for this to feel like your living room, but one you can make art and not worry about the cleanup.
As always, expect surprises and treats from us, ART, to you, cuties. 😉
Buy a ticket below to save your spot!
Puff & Paint: Pokémon Paint Night – 7:30PM April 24, 2026
$35.00

César Orozco & SonAhead — Grammy Award–Winning Cuban Timba
2026-04-24 21:00 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
César Orozco & SonAhead, winners of the Latin Grammy for Best Arrangement with their song “Camaleón,” deliver a powerful set of Cuban Timba infused with Cuban son, modern jazz, and electronic elements—honoring Orozco’s Cuban heritage and his musical journey through Venezuela and the U.S.
9:00 pm to 10:00 pm (First Set)
11:00 pm to 11:55 pm (Second Set)
Admission: $20 cover charge (Mezzanine)
Featuring:
Iván Llanes / Drums & Timbales
Mauricio Herrera / Congas; Backing Vocals
Jorge Bringas / Bass; Backing Vocals
Jan Kus / Tenor Saxophone
Jesús Ricardo / Trumpet
Giovanni Siveroni / Trumpet
Manuel Carro / Percussion; Backing Vocals
Cesar Orozco / Piano; Lead Vocals; Arrangements and Compositions
About Cesar Orozco & SonAhead:
Cesar Orozco & SonAhead is the latest project from Cuban-Venezuelan pianist, composer, arranger, violinist, educator, and now vocalist, Cesar Orozco. In addition to his work on piano, arrangements, and compositions, Orozco takes center stage as the lead vocalist, marking an exciting new chapter in his career. He was awarded the Latin Grammy in the category Best Arrangement for the composition “Camaleón” by his band SonAhead. Wikipedia+2CiberCuba+2
The name “SonAhead” reflects its essence: a fusion of Cuban son — a foundational genre that shaped what we now recognize as salsa — infused with elements of modern jazz, electronic music, and Cuban timba, a vibrant style that emerged in the 1990s and has deeply influenced Orozco since his teenage years. Listeners will find echoes of legendary timba groups like NG La Banda, El Médico de la Salsa, and Isaac Delgado woven into the music of SonAhead.
While stepping into the role of lead vocalist may seem novel to those who have followed Orozco’s career as a pianist over the past two decades, it’s not his first venture into this territory. During his studies at the National School of Arts (ENA) in Cuba, he formed his own band, serving as bandleader, arranger, composer, and vocalist.
After graduating from ENA, Orozco moved to Venezuela, immersing himself in a new cultural landscape that allowed him to explore the beautiful music and culture of Venezuela. Now, after spending 14 years in Venezuela and 12 years in the United States, and with the distinction of winning the Latin Grammy for Best Arrangement, he returns to his Cuban musical heritage with SonAhead — enriched by the diverse influences, recognitions, and experiences gathered along his remarkable journey.

Karaoke Friday Night
2026-04-24 22:00 - 2026-04-25 01:00 (America/New_York) | Nancy Blake’s Tavern + Tap, 82-19 Northern Blvd, Jackson Heights, NY 11372, USA
Join us for nonstop vibes, great music, and late-night fun.
Bring your friends, bring your voice, and let’s turn Friday into a party!

34 Ave Gardening Club
2026-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | 93rd St & 34th Ave, Queens, NY 11372, USA
Gloves & Tools Provided
Location Varies
Run by 34th Avenue Open Streets Coalition

Girl Be Heard
2026-04-25 12:00 - 14:00 (America/New_York) | 34th Avenue & 93rd Street, 34th Ave & 93rd St, Queens, NY 11372, USA
Calling all teenage girls ready to make change. We’re building a powerful crew of young women who want to use their voices and change the world. (inside PS 149)

Sakai Super Trio
2026-04-25 19:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Uke Hut, 36-01 36th Ave, Long Island City, NY 11106, USA
Nobuki Takamen:Guitar
Haruna Fukazawa: Flute
Original,Brazilian,Pops,Blues…
Door open 7PM, show start 7:30PM
$20 with free drinks

The Improv Draft
2026-04-26 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Grove 34 Comedy Club, 31-83 34th St, Astoria, NY 11106, USA
An unruly bunch of improvisers are randomly drafted onto teams to perform completely unscripted comedy.
No scripts, no safety nets—just pure comedy created in the moment. Come see why Grove 34 is THE place for improv comedy in Queens. Follow @improvnight and @soundsfunnyradio for cast announcements and show-specific details!
General Admission: $16.33

Argentine Jam with Emilio Teubal | Tango Jazz & Jam
2026-04-26 20:00 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Experience a monthly Tango Jazz Jam session in Queens, NY, hosted by pianist Emilio Teubal and his house band. Musicians of all levels are welcome to join, perform, and collaborate. Enjoy live jazz at one of NYC’s lively venues starting at 7 pm. Don’t forget your bandoneon!
Admission:
$20 Cover charge ( A drink included for Jammers)
Featuring:
Emilio Teubal – Piano
Alejo de los Reyes – Guitar
Serigio Reyes – Violin
Join us for a Tango Jazz Jam session where musicians are invited to perform and collaborate monthly in Queens, NY. All performers are welcome to sit in and play with the house band, hosted by pianist Emilio Teubal and his guests. Come listen and support live jazz at one of NYC’s most vibrant venues. Music starts at 9 pm, so bring your bandoneon!
About Emilio Teubal:
Emilio Teubal is a pianist and composer from Argentina, based in NYC for over 17 years. With over a decade of leading his own bands and releasing three records, Mr. Teubal presents his latest ensemble featuring piano, Spanish guitar, and clarinet. His music, written specifically for this ensemble, draws from a diverse range of styles, including Latin-American folk, tango, jazz, free improvisation, classical, and hints of Middle Eastern music.

Román Díaz & La Rumba de los Lunes
2026-04-27 19:30 - 22:30 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Cuban-born master percussionist Román Díaz —a “living repository” of Afro-Cuban culture— leads La Rumba Cubana de Queens at Terraza 7, a powerful weekly gathering where tradition, improvisation, and community come together every Monday.
Admission: $20: Cover charge for Mezzanine seating
Featuring:
Roger Consiglio / Vocals.
Máximo Valdés / Vocals.
Rafael Monteagudo / Percussion.
Clemente Medina / Percussion.
Román Diaz / Percussion; Spoken Word and folklorist.
About Roman Diaz:
Renowned as a master percussionist, scholar, and composer, Román Díaz is often revered as a living archive of Afro Cuban music. His illustrious career includes performances and recordings with eminent musicians such as Merceditas Valdés, Raíces Profundas, Los Marqueses de Atarés, Jane Bunett, Orlando “Puntilla” Ríos, Paquito D’Rivera, Oriente Lopez, Giovanni Hidalgo, David Virelles, Chucho Valdés, and Wynton Marsalis.
His mentorship under the legendary Pancho Quinto, founder of the pioneering rumba ensemble Yoruba Andabo, has seen Díaz contribute significantly to the evolution of the rumba sound that has defined Cuban music since the 1980s, and resonates with audiences globally. His expertise in Batá, combined with an unyielding rhythm on the congas, has been immortalized in numerous recordings across the world.
As an ardent educator, Díaz has traversed the globe, imparting his deep knowledge of Afro Cuban percussion through master classes. His profound understanding of the cultural roots and the narrative sensibility of his artistry make him a unique musical visionary, potentially guiding the future evolution of this musical form.

Tuesday Evening 3.5-Mile Run - 7:00pm
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Halifax) | Woodside Avenue & 54th Street, Queens, NY, 11377, US

Cristina Candela, Juan Pedro Jimenez & Raphael Brunne | Flamenco
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Terraza 7, 40-19 Gleane St, Elmhurst, NY 11373, USA
Join Cristina for an evening rooted in the depth and tradition of flamenco. Through expressive dance and masterful live music, the performance unfolds with intensity, precision, and emotional resonance — an intimate journey into the heart of this timeless art form.
Admission: $20: Cover at Mezzanine.
Featuring:
Cristina Candela / Bailaora
Raphael Brunne / Guitar
Juan Pedro Jimenez / Cantaor
7:00 PM to 8:00 PM (First Set)
9:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Second Set)
About Cristina Candela:
Since 2007, I have been working as a flamenco dancer. My experience spans a variety of settings, including tablaos like El Patio Andaluz in Barcelona, and international tours in Malaysia and Singapore with Chalachi. I’ve contributed to companies such as Maria Carrasco Cia and Apuchelando Cia in multiple roles: dancing, choreographing, and producing.
I’ve also engaged in fusion projects, notably with Anlage Cia in Granada, and in artistic-educational initiatives. For instance, I served as part of the ambassador group for the “Voices of Tomorrow” project under the Yehudi Menuhin Foundation.
My involvement in the arts extends to film. I’ve acted, danced, and worked in production for several short and independent films.
My interests encompass all aspects of performing and audiovisual arts. I’m as fascinated with the spotlight as I am with behind-the-scenes work. From a young age, I’ve been driven by a desire to create – to dance, choreograph, design scenographies. My foremost aim is to express my vision of the world as clearly as possible.
To this day, the words of Pina Bausch echo in my mind: “Dance, dance, otherwise we are lost.”
About Juan Pedro Jiménez:
Juan Pedro Jiménez is a cantaor from Cádiz, in the south of Spain, deeply rooted in the flamenco traditions of Andalusia. Raised performing alongside the gypsy family Romeros de Vejer, he developed his voice within an environment where flamenco is lived as a daily, communal expression.
A singer and guitarist, Juan Pedro refined his musical foundation through formal studies at the Royal Conservatory, while maintaining a strong connection to the oral and lived traditions of cante. His singing carries the depth, intensity, and emotional directness characteristic of his homeland.
He has performed extensively throughout Andalusia, including appearances at the Ferias of Sevilla, Jerez, El Puerto de Santa María, Sanlúcar, Algeciras, and Córdoba. He has also participated in El Rocío with the Hermandad de Jerez, as well as in Peñas Flamencas and festivals across the Province of Cádiz.
Wherever he performs, Juan Pedro Jiménez brings a voice shaped by tradition, experience, and a profound connection to the cultural landscape of southern Spain.
About Raphael Brunn:
Raphael Brunn is a flamenco guitarist and composer born on December 19, 1973, in Hackensack, New Jersey, into a family of performers whose roots span juggling, dance, and trapeze. Raised in an environment where performance was a way of life, he developed an early sensitivity to rhythm, beginning his musical path on the bass guitar at the age of ten.
At fourteen, Raphael moved to Europe to join his father, a renowned juggler and acrobat whose work had long incorporated live flamenco music. Through this connection, Raphael was immersed from an early age in the flamenco world, gaining exposure to respected artists such as El Manzanita, El Recortao, and Pepe Márquez, among others.
His debut as a flamenco guitarist took place during the opening festivities of the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, marking the beginning of a professional path deeply tied to the tradition. Over the years, he has performed alongside many of the artists who influenced his development, including collaborations with El Farruquito and El Torombo in the production Incognito in Frankfurt, Germany.
Now based in New York City, Raphael Brunn continues to perform with a range of flamenco artists while developing his work as a composer. He is currently working on his second album.
