Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society kicks off 2025 with Azúcar Jazz Combo performance

Leah Romero

LAS CRUCES, NM - Las Cruces and community members of surrounding areas are invited to join the Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society for its first monthly meeting of 2025, featuring the Azúcar Jazz Combo.

New and returning society members and guests have the opportunity to enjoy a full set of Latin jazz performed by the area ensemble. Azúcar’s performances run the gamut of musical repertoire, from salsa and jazz to pop ballads and international music.

The group has shared the stage with such artists as Tito Puente, Juan Gabriel and George Benson and accompanied Grammy Award-winning El Pasoan, Vikki Carr. 

Azúcar musicians include:

• Fernando Lechuga, piano
• Juan Lechuga, bass and lead vocals
• Adriana Lopez, lead singer
• Angel Jimenez, drums

Jazz enthusiasts are encouraged to join the Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society at 3 p.m. on Jan. 19, 2025 at Alma D’Arte Charter High School. Festivities will start with a dessert social and a short update on society happenings before Azúcar starts their set at 3:30 p.m.

If you’re looking for a jazz outlet before the monthly meeting, join Mesilla Valley Jazz and Blues Society at Mom’s Coffee on University Avenue for monthly Jazz Jams! All members of the community are welcome to join the audience or the spotlight as a guest musician. 

The next Jazz Jam is at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 9. People interested in performing can sign up online at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScYb8KAx93CNl5f_SYyOPjdpLNG7MQCyFqTyubSkzkK4C2OGg/viewform. 

Monthly meetings are open to the public and all are welcome. Attendance is $5 for society members, $10 for non-members and $2 for students at the door. Monthly Jazz Jams are free!

Are you new to MVJBS and interested in becoming a member? Annual dues are $25 per individual, $40 per family or $5 for students. Learn more about the organization online at www.mvjazzblues.net or on social media @MVJBS. 

What: MVJBS January meeting
Who: Azúcar Jazz Combo
When: 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 19, 2025
Where: Alma d’Arte Charter High School, 402 W. Court Ave., Las Cruces NM 88005