POTSDAM -- There will be a Latin Dance Party featuring The Crane Latin Ensemble Nov. 14 at the Cactus Grill and Cantina in Potsdam.

The Crane Latin Ensemble, also known as Norte Tropical, is one of the premiere performing ensembles of the Crane School of Music. Their music – a blend of classical and contemporary salsa, Latin jazz, and hip salsa hybrids – draws enthusiastic crowds in formal concert halls as well as informal venues. Founded by Director Dr. Marsha Baxter, the twenty-one member ensemble reflects the diverse musical life at Crane – strings, brass, percussion, piano, woodwinds and voice.

Last week the ensemble performed with members of the Mambo Legends Orchestra at the St. Lawrence International Film Festival and appeared in the film For the Love of Mambo. Last spring they performed at the historic Nuyorican Poets Cafe in New York City.

Dance instructor, Jeanna Matthews, a computer science professor at Clarkson, is offering salsa dance lessons before the concert. Beginners are welcome. Ms. Matthews teaches Latin dance in Potsdam and Canton.

Tickets are $7 for students and $12 for adults and be purchased at the door.

Salsa dance lessons precede the concert from 9:30 -10:30 p.m. The Crane Latin Ensemble will play from 10:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. at the Cactus Grill and Cantina, 11 Raymond Street in Potsdam, on Saturday, Nov, 14. There will be a cash bar.