POTSDAM — SUNY Potsdam's Crane School of Music invites the public to enjoy a special Crane Latin Ensemble performance, "Latin Dance Party: Bailar!," on Friday, March 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Knowles Hall Multi-Purpose Room.

The Crane Latin Ensemble has relocated from its original venue at The Crane School of Music to the Knowles space, which has plenty of room for a party.

"We've been dreaming of hosting a dance party for years instead of a traditional concert format," said Dr. Peter McCoy, the ensemble's director and a professor of music education. "After all, we play dance music, so there should be dancing!"

There will be free refreshments, tables for resting and chatting, and a dance floor area in front of the stage. The program will feature music from legends such as Oscar Hernandez, Arturo O'Farrill, Ray Santos, and of course Tito Puente.

"We invite everyone to dance the night away to classics from the golden era of Latin dance music," said McCoy.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

About the performers:

The Crane Latin Ensemble is dedicated to promoting Latin American dance music, specializing in Afro-Cuban and Puerto Rican traditional musical styles. The group collaborates with traditional artists such as former members of the Tito Puente Orchestra and Los Naranjos, the oldest continuously functioning Son group in Cuba, as well as contemporary artists such as Chris Washburn and Arturo O'Farrill.

Please note that due to the change in venue, this event will not be broadcast live on the Crane YouTube channel. To view the program and see other upcoming streaming performances, visit www.potsdam.edu/cranelive.