Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Spanish Harlem Orchestra presents *Salsa Navidad*, a festive program celebrating Puerto Rican holiday traditions. Led by pianist and founder Oscar Hernández, the three-time Grammy-winning ensemble combines aguinaldo, Puerto Rico’s lively caroling tradition, with familiar American Christmas songs in its energetic salsa dura style.

The orchestra has released 10 albums over 25 years and has performed at venues including Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House. Hernández previously served as musical director for Rubén Blades and performed with Tito Puente and Celia Cruz.

When: December 5, 2026

Showtime: 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Center for the Arts, Concert Hall, George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus

Tickets: $60, $52, or $38; prices include fees. Half-price tickets are available for youth through Grade 12.

Lineup: Spanish Harlem Orchestra, led by Musical Director and pianist Oscar Hernández

Run time: Approximately 110 minutes, including intermission

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Program: The performance blends Puerto Rican aguinaldo with American Christmas favorites in the orchestra’s salsa dura style. The digital performance program is expected to be available during the week of the event.

Pre-performance discussion: Oscar Hernández participates in a discussion moderated by Ricardo Vivancos-Pérez, an associate professor in George Mason University’s Department of Modern and Classical Languages. The discussion begins one hour before the performance.

Mason student tickets: A limited number of free student tickets are released two Tuesdays before the event.