Legendary Latin music pianist / arranger Oscar Hernández will be giving a free noontime talk, “The Essence of Latin Music,” sharing his insights into the idiom and his career, followed by a Q&A session. Lunch will be provided at noon (RSVP is required).

Mr. Hernández has long been considered one of the most prominent composers and performers on the Latin Jazz and Salsa music scene. He is best known as the leader and producer of the Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra. His contributions to the genre span five decades including collaborations with Rubén Blades, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Ray Baretto, and Gloria Estefan. He is also an in-demand session player, arranger, and producer for projects such as Broadway musicals and film documentaries.

Oscar Hernández will appear with the Stanford Afro-Latin Jazz Ensemble on Saturday, March 5 at 7:30 p.m. in Dinkelspiel Auditorium.