Global Sounds: Son del Sur

Presented by Salamanca Arts Centre

Welcome to the Global Sounds Salamanca series, live in the Founders Room on Woobys Lane.

Son del Sur

Friday 14th August 2026
Doors & bar open at 7pm
Music from 7:30pm 

The Founders Room on Woobys Lane
Salamanca Arts Centre 

Tickets: $22 + Booking fee

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Son del Sur, Tasmania’s own 10-piece salsa band has built a strong reputation, performing at Tasmania’s most popular venues and major music festivals and events, showcasing their vibrant sound across the state.  Son del Sur draws inspiration from the giants of salsa; think Celia Cruz, the rhythmic genius of Tito Puente, and the brilliance of Ruben Blades, while also adding the legendary beats of Buena Vista Social Club.  This influence has become the path the band has decided to follow. 

With Son del Sur, you’ll dive into the energetic salsa spirit of the barrio from the ’70s and ’80s.  The band brings a blend of salsa from the vibrant streets of New York, Puerto Rico, and Cuba, adding their own arrangements and original beats to give their salsa and Latin jazz a unique ‘Tassie’ flavour. Son del Sur is made up of local musicians. 

Its members are:

Franco Solis: The band leader, percussionist, and main vocalist from Chile, is well-known for his long music career and collaborations with the local Tassie music scene.

Elias Solis: Local Latin percussionist from Chile, Elias grew up in a musical family and studied in Chile, Peru, Brazil, and Cuba, performing Latin music, jazz, and contemporary styles.

Lea Palacios: The band’s newest lead singer from Colombia, she’s worked with diverse music groups, from Jazz to Rock and Latin fusion, blending styles with her deep, expressive voice.

Konrad Park: The band’s dynamite timbal player, is known for his long career as a percussionist in Tasmania. A brilliant drummer and teacher, he has inspired many with his skill and dedication.

Kelly Ottaway: Adds flavour to the band’s groove with his piano, montunos, and arrangements. Kelly is a brilliant arranger and music writer, he spices up every performance with his creative touch.

Simon Reid: Son del Sur’s bass man, Simon, is a Tasmanian multi-instrumentalist and teacher. He’s backed hundreds of bands locally and nationally, producing original music and salsa grooves that keep you dancing all night.

Scott David Cashion: Baritone and Tenor Saxophone player, and occasional hand percussionist, he’s enjoyed a 35-year music career across diverse Tasmanian settings and performance situations, enriching each with his talent.

Yoram Levy: Trumpeter and former Principal Trumpet of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra, is now a sought-after nationwide performer, educator, and ensemble leader since retiring from the TSO.

Les Johnston: a passionate trombonist, combines over a decade of performance and educational experience with technical skill and captivating stage presence, making him a top choice for jazz, classical, and contemporary ensembles.

Frances White: Is a powerful trombone player who makes the band stand out. She plays great solos, works with many different bands, and always adds something special to the music.

As Salamanca Arts Centre will be operating a bar under Tasmanian Liquor Licensing Regulations, all minors (people under the age of 18) must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times, and SAC Staff may, under their RSA Obligations, request verification of patrons’ age.

As our recent Funding Application to Arts Tasmania was not supported, the 2026 Global Sounds Live Music Series at Salamanca Arts Centre will be funded entirely by your support and ticket sales, and by Salamanca Arts Centre’s earned revenue. In 2026 Salamanca Arts Centre receives ZERO dollars from the Tasmanian State Government, but you can support Salamanca Arts Centre and, in turn, our Artists, by purchasing a ticket for this and other events, or by making a tax deductible donation at https://www.sac.org.au/donate/