Plena
Plena is traditional Afro-Puerto Rican music born in the late part of the 19th century in the town of Ponce, located in the southern part of the island. This popular music genre has been used both as a way of celebration, and as a tool to protest against the local and federal government for critical issues affecting one of the world’s oldest colonies.
Los Pleneros de Don Segundo
Born at Segundo Ruiz Belvis Cultural Center (SRBCC), Los Pleneros de Don Segundo have been playing original plena in Chicago since 2016. Los Pleneros have evolved to be one of Chicago’s most sought-after Afro-Puerto Rican folkloric groups due its unwavering commitment to the advancement of the genre with original compositions and arrangements.
After incorporating Bomba into their repertoire in the last two years, the group can adapt to a wide variety of formats, from a basic 4-member ensemble to a full Puerto Rican carnival experience with horns, vejigantes, cabezudos and stilt walkers.
Members:
- Primo Cruz (Lead singer)
- Michael Rodríguez (Musical director, guiro)
- Quincy Raggs (Requinto)
- José Natal (Seguidor)
- Arturo Vázquez (Trombone)
To hire Los Pleneros de Don Segundo and contribute to the development of original Afro-Puerto Rican music in Chicago, contact us at [email protected] or call us at 773-750-7544.
School Performances and Workshops
Ask about our special rates for schools and sponsorship opportunities. SRBCC dedicates resources every year to schools and organizations working with youth (0-24) in underserved communities across Chicago.
