The Alhambra Orchestra will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with two “Latin Beats” concerts at Florida International University’s Wertheim Performing Arts Center on Saturday, Sept. 26, culminating in an evening performance benefiting earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela.

The concerts are part of the 37th season of Miami’s community orchestra, which will be joined by Músicos por Venezuela and several guest performers.

Founded in 1990 by Dr. Leo Walz, The Alhambra Orchestra was created from the absence of a community orchestra in Miami-Dade County. Beginning with students and community members in the orchestra’s original home–a now-demolished church on Alhambra Street in Coral Gables–the musicians began by performing in churches, schools, and libraries. They now give 10-12 performances yearly, with nearly all events offered free of charge.

Annually, they hold a “Latin Beats” concert to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. This year, they’re expanding the ritual, opening their arms to Venezuelan relief efforts.

On Saturday, September 26, the orchestra will be joined on stage by Músicos por Venezuela for two concerts on the same day.

At 3 p.m., the collectives will present “Latin Beats,” and will perform music from Bizet’s Carmen, DeFalla’s Ritual Fire Dance, Carreño’s Margariteña, Danzón No. 2 by Marquez, Aires de Venezuela, and more. They will also be joined by guest musicians “Ensamble 7/4,” singer Jonathan Acosta, violin soloist Daniel Andai, and guest conductor Tarcisio Barreto Ceballos. The event is $10 for adults, and $5 for seniors and students. For questions, call 305-668-9260.

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At 7:30 p.m., the musicians will present “Latin Beats – An Evening in Support of Venezuela,” where your admission includes a donation for Venezuelan earthquake relief through the charity All For Venezuela. Singers Ina Peralta and Jonathan Acosta will also appear in addition to the prior program, as well as the previously-featured “Ensamble 7/4″ and violinist Daniel Andai. Tickets for the charity event start at $35. Sponsor packages are available. For questions, call 305-668-9260.

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To learn more about The Alhambra Orchestra, click here.