The Sundays in the Redwoods series of concerts are starting now, with free concerts held at Woodminster Amphitheater in Joaquin Miller Park. John Santos will play this coming Sunday afternoon. He's a Latin music percussionist and four-time Grammy nominee, and has been called "a spark plug of musical invention."

According to Latin Percussion, Santos is a member of the Latin Jazz Advisory Board of the Smithsonian Institute. He is also the founder and director of the Grammy-nominated Machete Ensemble (1985-2006), renowned for integrating traditional Afro-Latin forms with contemporary instrumentation and vibrant arrangements.

The John Santos Sextet will be performing along with Dos Four Y Los Mios, Rankin Scroo, and Candidi Oye-Oba at this Sunday concert.

Concert venue details...

This Santos concert will begin at around 2pm in the amphitheater. We think it's a good idea to arrive early, as gates open by 1:30pm for picnickers.

All concerts are great family events - even for toddlers, who can run around in the back! To reserve a picnic table, contact Renee Tucker at 238-4720. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats and water - it can get very hot in the sun in September.

Again these great concerts are free (!), but don't be surprised to discover that parking costs $4/vehicle. That seems pretty reasonable to us.

Check out the Sundays in the Redwoods website for more info about Santos and three other fall performances.