Wanda's Picks Special Broadcast:Wil Campa @ Stern Grove 8/14

One of the most recognized voices in Cuba, Wilfredo Campa combines his love of salsa, son, and jazz into an infectious, energetic blend of Afro-Latin rhythms and big-band sounds.

Born and raised in the countryside of Cuba, Campa’s ambition and love for music, dance and song-writing led him to study professional singing at Cuban’s acclaimed Escuela Superacion de Arte Raul Sanchez. While a student, Campa toured internationally with the group Cumbre, performing at venues throughout Cuba and worldwide. His exciting stage presence and booming vocals brought him to join the GRAMMY-nominated band Maraca. From 1998 to 2005, Maraca released three critically acclaimed albums and shared the stage at prestigious jazz festivals with the ranks of Winston Marsalis, Poncho Sanchez, Natalie Cole, Joe Lovano, and other luminaries.

In 2005, Campa formed the 13-piece Wil Campa y Su Orchestra, a collaboration of some of Cuba’s most celebrated artists. Es Tiempo, released in 2006, charted multiple singles, including the smash hit “Son a Santiago.” Their second album, Todo Es Posible was released in summer of 2010. The band has been playing to audiences across the globe since then, spreading Campa’s passion for Cuba and its music worldwide.

Wil Campa performs at the Stern Grove Festival, Sunday, August 14, 2011. The concert opens with Brazilian singer Luísa Maita. Listen to August 10, 2011, Wanda's Picks for an interview with her.  Visit http://www.sterngrove.org/