Orquesta Ritmo
Biography
Orquesta Ritmo Director, Michael Eyia, was inspired to create the band because of his Cuban heritage. Eyia, born in Cuba, wanted to introduce and entertain the American public in the electrifying genre of latin music. Ritmo was formed in the late 70’s as a smaller 5 piece group. It was designed to perform for various Cuban American Associations in the Mid-Michigan area. Later it incorporated a dance troupe of 24 dancers and 7 models to participate in the US Bicentennial Celebration. This troupe traveled all around the Midwest doing shows. In the mid 80’s Orquesta RITMO became the ten piece group that currently performs. The Band has opened and performed for a number of national and international acts, including such artists as Salsa great Oscar D’Leon, recording artists Los Lobos,The Bangles, Pete Escovído, and Wycliffe Gordon at the E. Lansing Summer Solstice Jazz Festival among others. The Band has also garnered a number of accolades including a Special Tribute from the Michigan Legislature for promoting the Cuban culture in Michigan. Over time,, the Band has been performing at casinos, festivals and corporate functions all over the state and parts of the Midwest.