Orquesta Estelar is a community-based Cuban big band which includes over 25 members (and still growing!). We are proud to be a SOAS Union society and part of the vibrant SOAS community. The band play a range of Cuban and salsa repertoire from 40s classics through to contemporary hits. Orquesta Estelar host monthly big band nights at the ‘Pack and Carriage’ in Euston and have played at a wide range of venues from upscale West End clubs such as ‘Studio Valbonne’ and ‘Cafe de Paris’, to cultural events and university parties.

Orquesta Estelar is led by the formidable team of Sara McGuinness, Elpidio Alegria, Bill Bland and Jimmy Martinez and rehearse weekly in SOAS (The School of Oriental and African Studies), Russell Square. Band members are a mix of professional, semi-professional and amateur musicians. The band is a great way to learn about Cuban music performance, and have a lot of fun doing so.