TITO PUENTE TRIBUTE

SAINT PETER'S CHURCH / JUNE 1

The church, known for its jazz ministry, hosts an evening honoring the late percussion legend Tito Puente. Born in Spanish Harlem in 1923, Tito became one of the most influential figures in Latin jazz and mambo. Over a career spanning five decades, he recorded more than one hundred albums and earned five GRAMMY Awards. Tito's energy, showmanship and musical brilliance earned him the title "El Rey" – the King. His compositions "Oye Como Va" and "Ran Kan Kan" remain standards, covered by artists from Santana to contemporary jazz ensembles. Tito performed at Saint Peter's during his lifetime, making this tribute particularly fitting. The church's Midtown sanctuary has long served as sacred ground for jazz, hosting weekly vespers and memorial services for the music's giants. This evening continues that tradition.