CAPA presents the Spanish Harlem Orchestra at the Capitol Theatre, 77 S. High St., on April 5, at 7 p.m.

Since its original conception in 2000, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra has established itself as the standard for contemporary Latin music. Directed by world-renowned pianist, arranger and producer Oscar Hernández, the 13-member all-star ensemble has reintroduced the classic sounds of New York City salsa to music lovers worldwide.

Spanish Harlem is the birthplace for salsa, Latin soul, boogaloo, and countless other variants within the Latin idiom. The Spanish Harlem Orchestra has established itself as curators of the traditional sound of the Latino community in the neighborhood.

In addition to being pianist, arranger, and musical director for the globally renowned Rubén Blades, Oscar Hernandez has enjoyed a prolific music career recording and performing with artists as Latin music king Tito Puente, queen of salsa music Celia Cruz, Latin pop star Julio Iglesias and many more. He was also the musical director for Paul Simon’s Bradway show The Capeman.

The Spanish Harlem Orchestra’s first album, Un Gran Dian en el Barrio (One Great Day in the Neighborhood) was released in 2002. It garnered a Grammy nomination in the “Best Salsa Album” category in 2003, and the group won the 2003 Latin Billboard Award for “Salsa Album of the Year – Best New Group.”

The group's 2004 follow-up, Across 110th Street, earned its first Grammy Award for Best Salsa Album. Its most recent release, United We Swing, has drawn the attention of the Grammys again with a 2008 nomination for Best Tropical Album

Visit www.imnworld.com/spanishharlemorchestra for more information.

Tickets are $32 and $26 at the Ohio Theatre Ticket Office, 39 E. State St., all Ticketmaster outlets, and www.ticketmaster.com. To purchase tickets by phone, call 614-469-0939.